Top 5 Marshallese Foods

Chukuchuk is a unique Marshallese dish consisting of rice balls that are rolled in freshly grated coconut which is abundant on the islands. These simple balls are quite popular due to the contrast between the slightly sweet coconut and neutral steamed rice. Chukuchuk is typically served as a side dish accompanying various fish and poultry dishes.Expand

Simple, yet filled with nutrients and flavors, sweet potatoes and fried bananas is a delicious Marshallese dish made with only three main ingredients – boiled sweet potatoes, bananas, ideally unripe, and either butter or coconut oil for frying, although coconut oil is a more authentic option. Bananas and sweet potatoes are fried, combined, and ready to be served, preferably as a side dish accompanying barbecued fish or pork dishes.Expand

Barramundi cod is a fish specialty of Marshallese cuisine that is considered one of the national dishes of the islands. A whole fresh barramundi cod is seasoned, then tightly wrapped within banana leaves and baked until thoroughly cooked. The leaves allow the fish to retain its moisture and delicate flavor - often described as sweet and buttery - while at the same time imparting a pleasant fragrance of the banana leaf to the dish. The fish can be accompanied by traditional rice balls known as chukuchuk, sweet potatoes, and a fresh salad. Banana-leaf barramundi cod is offered in numerous restaurants on the islands.Expand

Rice-banke is one of the simplest Marshallese dishes. It consists of diced pumpkins and rice, boiled together in water with the optional addition of coconut milk for extra flavoring. The pumpkin can be smashed or left intact, depending on personal preferences. Rice-banke is traditionally served warm in a bowl, preferably as a side dish accompanying fish dishes.Expand

This exotic and decadent dessert known as Marshall Islands macadamia nut pie is made by pressing shredded coconut into a pie shell, then filling it with a combination of macadamia nuts, corn syrup, sugar, and vanilla extract. The pie is finished with a luscious topping of coconut whipped cream. Once it has cooled down, the flat pie is usually served cut into pieces and enjoyed with a dollop of whipped cream on the side.Expand