Coconut Pumpkin (Solomon Islands Pumpkin Simmered in Coconut Milk)
In short: Chunks of pumpkin simmered in coconut milk until soft and lightly creamy, a gentle Solomon Islands side for grilled fish or chicken. It takes about 45 min in total and makes 4 servings.
- Prep
- 15 min
- Cook
- 30 min
- Total
- 45 min
- Servings
- 4
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Calories
- 265 kcal
In the Solomon Islands, pumpkin is a garden crop that turns up in many home meals, often simmered in coconut milk. The pieces cook until soft and sweet while the coconut milk reduces into a thick, mild sauce. It is a plain, gentle side that goes with grilled fish or chicken, with chili and lime added at the table.
Instructions
- Put the pumpkin, onion, salt, coconut milk and water in a wide pot and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Cover and cook for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring gently once or twice, until the pumpkin is tender but still holds its shape.
- Uncover and simmer for 5 to 8 minutes, until the sauce has thickened. Press a few pieces of pumpkin against the side of the pot to make the sauce creamier.
- Serve hot with lime wedges and chili, alongside grilled fish, chicken or rice.
Tips
- Choose dense, orange-fleshed pumpkin such as butternut or kabocha. Watery varieties fall apart before the sauce thickens.
- For a leafy version, stir in a large handful of chopped spinach or pumpkin tips for the last 3 minutes of cooking.
Questions and answers
What do I serve with coconut pumpkin?
Grilled fish or chicken and steamed rice or boiled sweet potato are the usual partners. Chili and lime at the table add brightness.
Can I bake it instead?
Yes. Put everything in a covered dish and bake at 180°C (350°F) for 40 minutes, then uncover for 10 minutes to thicken the sauce.
Can I use light coconut milk?
You can, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich. Simmer it uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce it.
How long does it take to make Coconut Pumpkin (Solomon Islands Pumpkin Simmered in Coconut Milk)?
About 45 min in total: 15 min of preparation and 30 min of cooking.
How many calories are in Coconut Pumpkin (Solomon Islands Pumpkin Simmered in Coconut Milk)?
About 265 kcal per serving, with 4 g of protein, 27 g of carbohydrates and 17 g of fat. These values are estimates.
Nutrition per serving
| Calories | 265 kcal |
|---|---|
| Protein | 4 g |
| Carbohydrates | 27 g |
| Fat | 17 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sugar | 10 g |
| Sodium | 420 mg |
Estimated values, calculated from the ingredients.
