Vanuatu Simboro (Steamed Cabbage Rolls in Coconut Cream) – Authentic Vanuatu Recipe
Delicate Ni-Vanuatu vegetable rolls bathed in bubbling, savory coconut cream.
- Country of Origin
- 🇻🇺 Vanuatu (Melanesia, Oceania)
- Dietary Profile
- vegan
- Prep Time
- 25 min
- Cook Time
- 20 min
- Difficulty
- Medium
- Signature Staples
- Tender cabbage leaves rolled around grated sweet potato, Spinach, Onions, Thick coconut cream, Ginger
Ingredients for Vanuatu Simboro (Steamed Cabbage Rolls in Coconut Cream) (4 Servings)
- 1.25 lbs (or 2.5 cups) tender cabbage leaves rolled around grated sweet potato, prepped into bite-sized pieces
- 1.5 cups spinach, washed and trimmed
- 1 cup onions
- 1 medium onion and 3 cloves garlic, finely minced with thick coconut cream
- 1.5 tbsp traditional Vanuatu seasoning (ginger, garlic, sea salt)
- 2.5 tbsp traditional cooking oil, sea salt, cracked black pepper, and fresh citrus or herbs
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Finely chop or mash tender cabbage leaves rolled around grated sweet potato and mix in a bowl with thick coconut cream, ginger, garlic, sea salt, and a pinch of salt to form a savory filling.
- Portion or fold the seasoned mixture with spinach into neat traditional parcels, dumplings, or patties.
- Heat a heavy skillet with oil over medium heat or bring a steamer/broth pot to a gentle simmer.
- Cook the parcels for 12–15 minutes until tender and cooked through (crisping the bottoms in the skillet if desired).
- Spoon onions generously over the top and serve warm.