John Myers
Papua New Guinea’s cuisine
Papua New Guinea’s cuisine is a blend of traditional and modern influences. The country’s diverse culture has given rise to a unique culinary scene. Indigenous plants and animals, as well as introduced ingredients, have been combined to create a range of dishes that reflect the country’s history and geography. Papua New Guinea’s cuisine is characterized by its use of fresh and locally sourced ingredients.
Traditional dishes
Some of the traditional dishes of Papua New Guinea include mumu, a method of cooking where meat and vegetables are slow-cooked in an underground pit and taro, a starchy root vegetable that is boiled, roasted, or fried. Other popular dishes include kokoda, a ceviche-like dish made with raw fish marinated in lime juice and coconut cream, and saksak, a pudding made from sago flour and served with coconut milk.
Popular restaurants in Port Moresby
For those looking for a sit-down meal, there are several popular restaurants in Port Moresby that offer a range of cuisines. The Airways Hotel is a popular choice, serving international and local dishes, including seafood and steak. The Royal Papua Yacht Club offers waterfront dining with a menu that features seafood, pizzas, and local specialties. The Grand Papua Hotel is another popular restaurant that offers a range of international and local dishes.
Street food stalls in major cities
Street food is a popular option in Papua New Guinea, with many vendors selling a range of snacks and meals. In Port Moresby, the Waigani Market is a popular spot for street food. Fried rice, noodles, and chicken skewers are just some of the options available. In Lae, the Eriku Market is a popular spot for street food. Here, you can find grilled fish, fried chicken, and papaya salad.
Unique flavors to try
Papua New Guinea’s cuisine is full of unique flavors. For those looking to try something new, betel nut is a popular ingredient that is used in many dishes. The nut has a slightly bitter taste and is often chewed for its stimulant properties. Another unique ingredient is kaukau, a type of sweet potato that is commonly used in local dishes.
Tips for dining in Papua New Guinea
When dining in Papua New Guinea, it’s important to be aware of the cultural customs. Many restaurants and street food stalls have communal seating, so be prepared to share a table with strangers. It’s also customary to eat with your hands, so be prepared to get messy. Finally, it’s important to be mindful of the hygiene of the food stalls you choose to eat at, and to choose vendors that use clean utensils and cook their food thoroughly.
