When you think of Kiribati, you might imagine a remote Pacific paradise with pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. And you would be right, but they also gotta eat, which leads us to Kiribati Cuisine.
Kiribati cuisine goes beyond the idyllic landscape to an intriguing blend of culinary influences that make Kiribati’s food scene unique.
The country’s cuisine is a true fusion of traditional I-Kiribati ingredients and the influences of China, Australia, and even the UK. The result is a diverse and flavorful array of dishes that reflect the country’s history and global connections.
The Traditional I-Kiribati Cuisine
At the heart of Kiribati cuisine is the island’s bounty from the sea. Fish, particularly tuna, is a staple in the I-Kiribati diet, often served raw in a dish called te buninga or marinated with coconut milk. Coconut is another essential ingredient, used in a variety of ways, from fresh coconut milk to grated coconut flesh, which adds a creamy texture to many dishes.
However, it’s not just the sea that provides for the people of Kiribati. The islands also produce root vegetables like batata (sweet potato) and tarena (cassava), which are commonly boiled or baked. These starchy staples form the base of many meals, often served alongside fish or meat.
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The Chinese Influence
While traditional Kiribati food is largely based on local ingredients, Chinese cuisine has left a significant mark on the island’s food culture. This influence can be traced back to the 19th and 20th centuries when Chinese migrants began to settle in the Pacific Islands, bringing their culinary traditions with them.
One of the most notable Chinese influences in Kiribati is the popularity of stir-fried dishes, especially those made with local vegetables and fish. Chow mein and fried rice are commonly found in Kiribati, often served as a side dish to complement more traditional meals. These Chinese-inspired dishes are often cooked with a mix of locally sourced ingredients, creating a hybrid of Chinese flavors and Pacific Island produce.
In Kiribati’s larger towns and urban areas, you’ll also find Chinese-owned restaurants serving up dishes like sweet and sour pork, chop suey, and spring rolls, which have become staples in the local diet. These dishes have become so integrated into Kiribati cuisine that it’s hard to imagine the country’s food scene without them.
The Australian and British Influence: Sausage and Chips
One of the more surprising elements of Kiribati cuisine is the influence of Australia and the UK, particularly in the form of Western fast food. The British and Australian presence in the Pacific, both historically and in modern times, has brought with it a love for simple, hearty fare. This is where the iconic sausages and chips (savleoy and fries) come into play.
While sausages are not native to Kiribati, the savory snack has become a beloved part of the local food scene. The Australian connection is especially evident, as the Australian military and civilian presence in the Pacific led to the introduction of this classic comfort food. The sausages are typically deep-fried or grilled and served with a side of crispy, golden fries. It’s a dish you’ll find at local markets, food stalls, and even in some homes, as it offers a quick and satisfying meal for the busy islander.
The UK’s influence also comes into play with dishes like meat pies and fish and chips, which have been adapted to local tastes. While the pies might not have the same flaky pastry as those found in the UK, they’re still a popular snack, filled with minced meat or vegetables and often served with a side of chips.
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A Melting Pot of Flavors
Kiribati’s cuisine is a reflection of its history and the diverse cultures that have influenced it. The traditional I-Kiribati dishes, rich in seafood and coconut, are the foundation, while the Chinese influence adds depth and variety with stir-fries and rice-based dishes. The Australian and British presence has brought a taste of the Western world to the islands, with sausages, chips, and pies making their way into the local diet.
So again and much like other Pacific Island nations the food here within Kiribati cuisine is very simple, but fresh and decent. This means that is you can survive on tuna sashimi, steak and Aussie pub grub, you will not at all go hungry in Kiribati.
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