Suafa’i (Samoan Hot Banana and Sago Pudding) is a traditional Samoan recipe for a classic dessert of sago cooked with mashed ripe bananas in a coconut cream base. The full recipe is presented here and I hope you enjoy this classic Samoan version of: Samoan Hot Banana and Sago Pudding (Suafa’i).
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Suafa’i is a traditional Samoan hot banana pudding, similar in comfort to Koko Alaisa but made with ripe bananas and sago. It is often prepared using bananas that are very ripe or starting to brown, making it a practical and nourishing way to use what’s on hand. Suafa'i is typically served for breakfast but it can also be served as a dessert.
Ingredients:
6–8 ripe bananas (very ripe or browning bananas work best)
Water, as needed
65g sago (tapioca pearls)
Sugar, to taste
Coconut cream, to finish
Method:
Peel and mash the bananas directly in a large pan until mostly smooth.
Add water until the liquid level is just even with the mashed bananas.
Set the pan over medium heat and bring to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally.
In the meantime, soak the sago in a bowl of cold water, gently breaking the pearls up with your hands.
Once the pot with the bananas is boiling, add in the soaked sago with its soaking water.
Continue cooking, stirring constantly, until the sago turns fully transparent, showing that it's cooked.
Adjust consistency and sweetness of the dish by adding more water and sugar as needed.
Take off the heat and gently stir through the coconut cream.
Serve immediately, accompanied with extra coconut cream, if desired.
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