Taro is prepared in the umu, a traditional Samoan underground oven. For the umu, a hole is dug in the ground where a fire is lit upon dried organic matter like leaves. Taro is placed near this fire and then covered with large tropical leaves and twigs in order to cook the food. Pork is also commonly prepared this way.
I learned something very important about food preparation here. You should never consume raw taro leaves! Raw taro is poisonous, and even if you eat a small amount, you can have symptoms of taro poisoning, like throat swelling and stomach cramps. I made the mistake of eating raw taro leaves one day and I had a burning throat for several hours. You must always fully cook the taro and its leaves. Don't make the same mistake that I did!
Yes! Palusami is a staple food of Samoa, since the ingredients all grow plentifully here. It is commonly served during to'ona'i, a Samoan Sunday feast that is normally held after church services. Palusami represents family and friends coming together to enjoy Samoan culture and heritage while catching up with one another in conversation as the meal is enjoyed.
