Embarking on a culinary journey through Tahiti during your Tahiti holidays is like stepping into a paradise of flavors, where each bite captivates the senses and tells a story of the island’s rich cultural tapestry. Known for its stunning beaches and lush landscapes, Tahiti also boasts an exquisite culinary scene that’s a harmonious blend of native Polynesian traditions, French influences, and a dash of international flair.
From the freshest seafood to tropical fruits and sumptuous French desserts, the local fare is as vibrant as the island itself. Get ready to savor a gastronomic adventure as we delve into six mouth-watering dishes that embody the exotic tastes of Tahiti.
Poisson Cru
Poisson Cru, often considered the national dish of Tahiti, is a refreshing concoction of raw fish, typically tuna, marinated in citrus juices and coconut milk. It’s similar to ceviche but distinctively Tahitian due to the inclusion of coconut milk. The fish is cut into bite-sized pieces and soaked in lime juice, which ‘cooks’ it chemically.
After a short marination, it’s mixed with diced vegetables like cucumber, carrots, and tomatoes. The coconut milk adds a creamy, tropical note, balancing the acidity of the lime. This dish can be enjoyed as a starter or a light main course, and it perfectly encapsulates the essence of Tahitian cuisine.
Fafa
Fafa is a traditional Polynesian dish, a simple yet hearty combination of chicken and local spinach cooked in coconut milk. The spinach used is usually the taro leaf, but other leafy greens can substitute. The chicken is first sautéed with onions and garlic, then simmered with the spinach and coconut milk.
The flavours meld beautifully, offering a creamy and nutritious dish that’s high in vitamins and minerals. Fafa is often served over steamed rice or with root vegetables, making it a fulfilling meal.
Ahima’a
Ahima’a is the Tahitian take on a traditional Polynesian underground oven. Various types of meat and fish, along with root vegetables like taro and sweet potatoes, are wrapped in banana leaves and placed in a pit filled with hot stones. The pit is then covered with soil and left to cook for several hours.
This slow-cooking method allows the ingredients to soak up smoky, earthy flavours from the hot stones and leaves. When unearthed, the food is incredibly tender and rich in flavour, giving you a real taste of traditional Polynesian cooking techniques.
Chevrettes
Chevrettes, or large prawns, are a popular delicacy in Tahiti, where seafood is a staple. These prawns are often grilled or sautéed and served in a rich garlic or vanilla sauce. The vanilla version may sound unusual, but the flavour pairs surprisingly well with seafood, offering a unique and mouth-watering experience. Whether you like them spicy or mildly flavoured, chevrettes make for an indulgent meal that showcases the island’s fresh seafood.
Māoa Tahiti
Māoa Tahiti is a vibrant and refreshing fruit salad that showcases the region’s bountiful tropical fruits. Ingredients like mango, papaya, and pineapple are cubed and mixed together, often with a sprinkle of lime juice for added zing.
Some variations also include a splash of rum to kick things up a notch. It’s a perfect palate cleanser or dessert, particularly on a hot day, and offers a burst of natural sweetness and tropical flavours that encapsulate the essence of the islands.
Tarte Tatin
A classic French dessert that has found a home in Tahiti, Tarte Tatin is an upside-down caramelised apple tart. A layer of sugar and butter is placed at the bottom of a pan, followed by neatly arranged apple slices. The pastry is placed on top and the whole thing is baked until the apples are soft and the crust is golden.
Once done, it’s flipped to reveal a sticky, sweet layer of caramelised apples. Often served with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of crème fraîche, this dessert is a beautiful marriage of French technique and Tahitian flair.
Visiting the Islands of Tahiti
Exploring Tahiti’s culinary landscape is a feast for the senses, offering a diverse range of flavors that reflect the island’s cultural richness. From seafood delights to tropical treats, the unique blend of Polynesian and French influences makes every meal an unforgettable experience. Don’t miss these six iconic dishes on your Tahitian adventure, where you can savor the local cuisine while enjoying Tahiti holiday packages.
