Fiji is situated in the South Pacific Ocean and is known for its breathtaking landscapes and warm hospitality, and remarkably for its unique and vibrant cuisine. The fusion of indigenous Fijian, Indian, Chinese, and Polynesian flavors create a diverse culinary experience for visitors from across the globe in Fiji.

If you are on a trip to Fiji, taste the most popular and mouthwatering cuisine from Fiji and experience the freshness and flavors of Fijian foods. 

Fujian culinary techniques developed before 2000 years with the arrival of Melanesians in Fiji. Then it expanded with continental cuisine techniques when Fijians traded with the Polynesians, especially in Tonga and Samoa.

Eventually, the food quality and diversity of Fiji further developed in the 16th and 17th centuries when the English and Dutch came to Fiji as part of the medieval world exploration. Below is a list of the most flowerful and unique dishes of Fuji that are considered the best Food of Fiji. 

Famous Cuisine from Fiji

Kokoda

One cannot talk about Fijian cuisine without mentioning Kokoda, the country’s national dish. This refreshing and tangy dish consists of raw fish marinated in lemon or lime juice mixed with coconut cream, tomatoes, onions, and chilies.

The acidity of the citrus juice cures the fish, creating a delicious ceviche-like aroma that is a favorite among both locals and tourists. Your trip to Fiji would never be complete without tasting Kokoda, the most delicious and popular cuisine of Fiji.

Lovo

If you have the opportunity to attend a traditional Fijian feast known as “Lovo,” do not miss it. Lovo is a unique cooking method where various types of meat, including pork, chicken, lamb, and fish, along with vegetables, are wrapped in banana leaves and cooked underground in a pit oven.

This slow-cooking technique infuses the ingredients with a smoky flavor, resulting in tender and succulent meats that are often served with root vegetables and taro leaves. Never miss Lovo, which represents the culture and tradition of Fiji and is a must-try cuisine in Fiji.

Rourou

Fijians love their leafy greens, and Rourou is a popular dish made from taro leaves cooked in coconut cream. The leaves are boiled until tender, mixed with onions, garlic, and ginger, and seasoned with traditional spices. Rourou is usually served alongside other Fijian delicacies, such as cassava, roasted fish, or seafood. Try Rourou, one of the most popular dishes in Fiji, at least once in your lifetime. 

Fijian Curries

Thanks to the Indo-Fijian influence, curries have become an integral part of Fiji’s culinary landscape. Fijian curries are unique in their use of local spices, such as turmeric, cumin, coriander, and mustard seeds.

Whether you try fish curry, chicken curry, or vegetable-based chana masala, you’ll be treated to a burst of aromatic flavors that will leave your taste buds craving more. These curries are typically served with rice or Roti (Indian bread) and are common Fiji dishes found in almost every nook and corner of Fiji. 

Roti

Speaking of Roti, this unleavened flatbread is a staple in Fiji and has become a common accompaniment to many meals. Roti can be enjoyed with curries or used to make delicious wraps filled with chicken, fish, or vegetables.

The versatility of this bread and its soft texture make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Like the Fijian curries, Roti is another food you can find across rural and urban nooks and corners when you search saying Fiji food near me.

Coconut Bread

If you have a sweet tooth, make sure to sample the delightful coconut bread found throughout Fiji. This soft and moist bread is made with freshly grated coconut and has a subtle sweetness that pairs perfectly with a cup of Fiji-grown coffee. Whether you have it for breakfast or as an afternoon treat, the aroma and taste of coconut bread will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression. Make a point and never miss coconut bread, and keep this in your Fiji travel food list.

Duruka

Duruka, also known as fern shoots, is a seasonal delicacy in Fiji. Similar to asparagus, tender shoots are harvested from the wild and used in various dishes. They can be stir-fried with garlic, ginger, and onions or added to soups and curries.

The unique texture, mild flavor, and earthy undertones make Duruka a sought-after ingredient when in season. As Duruka is a seasonal item, you may not easily get it anywhere at any time. So, take note of Duruka, and search for it in Fiji travel food guide before you start your trip to Fiji.

Cawaki

Cawaki, over the period, has become the most popular food recipe in Fiji, especially among the coastal Fijians. Cawaki is the local name of sea urchin which is the only urchin species that can be eaten. This species is found in the shallow waters of Fiji. Fijian women usually collect Cawaki from the coral reef and sell it in the local market, which has become a great source of income for the women in the coastal villages. Contemporary Fiji regards Cawaki as one of the special and popular Fijian dishes for the residents and tourists as well.

Taro

Taro is a delicious vegetarian dish, exactly like potatoes in other parts of the world. Fijians are very fond of Taro and use it for various recipes. They use it like potatoes and yams besides cutting them into pieces, frying them, and making chips. Taro is also boiled and smashed and served with spices and other ingredients. Taro has a high level of carbohydrates and is one of the high-energy providing vegetables.

This vegetable has been the source of energy for Fijians for centuries, and to acknowledge this, Fiji celebrates Taro Day on the full moon of May every year. Never miss this special food from Fiji, which may be a new experience in life for you.

Okra

Okra is another vegetarian dish lovingly and delightfully served across Fiji with different culinary recipes. Never miss the special spicy okra fry or the delicious Fijian okra-potato stir fry in Fiji. You can also ask for grilled okra, roasted or sauteed okra dishes.

Enjoy the okra stews and soups in almost all famous restaurants in Fiji that are not only delicious but healthy and nutritious with a grassy flavor like green beans and eggplant.

Nama

Taste the Fiji special Nama which is yet another seafood like the Cawaki. Nama is a type of seaweed found in the sea waters all over Fiji and commonly known as “sea grapes” or “green grapes.” Nama is highly nutritious and has high Vitamin C and Vitamin A properties.

Fijians use Nama in various recipes, like using it as a garnish and adding it to coconut milk or salad, making Kora, a thick paste, or serving Nama like caviar (fish eggs) with lemon and chili. Taste Nama the most popular food in Fiji, especially if you are a health-conscious person.

Kava

If you happen to be in Fiji on a festive occasion or celebration, you may be lucky enough to experience “Kava,” which is a popular drink traditionally used by Fijians for hundreds of years. Kava is a drug extracted from the “Piper methysticum” from the pepper family.

This is a type of ground-up root and is found in the South Pacific region. Kava is made from crushed and powdered roots and soaked in water before it can be taken as a tea or a drink. However, Kava is restricted in Australia for medicinal purposes. Try your luck to get Kava which is one of the rare must-try dishes in Fiji.

Chicken Chop Suey

The chicken chop suey is a Chinese-influenced dish with a Fijian version of a chicken recipe. The Fijian culinary style of chicken chop suey is marinated and stir-fried chicken mixed with stir-fried vegetables like capsicum, onions, cabbage, bean sprouts, carrots, or any other local vegetables available in the local market.

This delicious and flowerful dish is usually served with rice or noodles. Order the chicken chop suey to taste its aroma in any big or small hotels in Fiji.

KuitaVakalolo

KuitaVakalolo is “Octopus stewed in Coconut Cream,” which is a special Fiji delicacy famous in the provinces of seafaring and, in fact, a festive recipe in Fiji. KuitaVakalolo is usually made by skilled and experienced cooks with utmost care and culinary expertise.

To start with the process of making KuitaVakalolo, the cook cuts the cleaned octopus into a manageable size and simmers it with thick coconut milk for a couple of hours. Tomatoes, onion, and chilies, along with other spices, are added in the process. It is then served with casava, Taro or kumala. Taste the aroma of KuitaVakalolo, which is one of the most popular dishes of Fiji.

Conclusion

Fiji’s culinary scene is a rich tapestry of traditional Fijian, Indian, Chinese, and Polynesian influences. From the zesty flavors of Kokoda to the smoky meats of Lovo, and the aromatic spices of Fijian curries, there is something for everyone to savor.

Exploring these popular dishes will not only introduce you to the vibrant cuisine of Fiji but also offer a glimpse into the country’s diverse cultural heritage. Make sure to experience both local and special recipes in Fiji, both in the restaurants as well as street food in Fiji.