Fiji By Food Enthusiasts · 6 min read

National Dish Fiji: Steamed Cassava with Honey (Recipe)

Steamed cassava pieces drizzled with golden honey in a bowl

In this article

Meet Steamed Cassava with Honey, a wonderfully simple snack that captures the easy-going spirit of the Fijian islands. Tender, starchy cassava is gently steamed until soft, then tossed with golden honey and a whisper of salt for the perfect sweet-savoury balance. Naturally gluten-free, lactose-free and easy to make vegan, it is the kind of unfussy treat that turns a handful of humble ingredients into something genuinely comforting. Bring a taste of the South Pacific straight to your own kitchen.

About Steamed Cassava with Honey

Steamed Cassava with Honey is a traditional Fijian dish that marries the hearty texture of cassava with the natural sweetness of honey. Cassava — also known as manioc — is a root vegetable native to many tropical regions of the world. In Fiji it is a much-loved staple food with a long history in the local kitchen. This dish is not only delicious but also reflects the cultural richness and the traditional cooking methods of the Fijian people, much like the island’s beloved Cassava Porridge.

Ingredients (serves 1–2)

300g cassava
2 tablespoons honey
1 pinch of salt
Water (for steaming)

Shopping for the ingredients

When shopping for Steamed Cassava with Honey, it is well worth paying attention to the quality of the cassava. Look for fresh, firm roots without dark spots or damage. Ideally the honey should be locally sourced and as unprocessed as possible to preserve its full flavour. Do not forget to choose a good salt either; sea salt or Himalayan salt can add a little extra depth of aroma.

Preparing the dish

To prepare Steamed Cassava with Honey, start by peeling the cassava roots thoroughly and cutting them into even pieces. This ensures the cassava cooks evenly throughout. The pieces should be roughly the same size so that they all become tender in the same amount of time. Washing the roots carefully removes any soil and residue, allowing the flavours of the dish to come through all the more clearly.

Step-by-step instructions

Cut the peeled cassava roots into evenly sized pieces and place them in a steamer basket.
Bring water to the boil in a pan and set the steamer basket over the boiling water.
Steam the cassava for around 20–30 minutes, until soft.
Lift the cooked cassava out of the steamer and tip it into a bowl.
Toss with honey and a pinch of salt, stirring well until the pieces are evenly coated.
Serve warm and enjoy!

Gluten-free / lactose-free version

One of the great advantages of Steamed Cassava with Honey is that it is naturally gluten-free and lactose-free. The dish is ideal for anyone with food intolerances or allergies. It is worth making sure the honey and salt are free from additives too, so the purity of the dish is guaranteed. That way you can enjoy this traditional Fijian snack with complete peace of mind.

Tips for vegans and vegetarians

Since Steamed Cassava with Honey contains only plant-based ingredients, it is a great choice for vegetarians. Vegans can swap the honey for maple syrup or agave nectar to make the dish fully vegan. These alternatives are just as sweet and lend the dish a character all their own. Experiment with different sweeteners to find the flavour that suits you best.

More tips and tricks

A few simple tips can make preparing Steamed Cassava with Honey even easier. Use a steamer basket for consistent, even results. Take care not to overcook the cassava, as it can turn mushy. To vary the flavour, you might add warming spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg for a special twist — a trick that also works beautifully with Caramelized Banana with Coconut.

Adapting the recipe to your taste

The flexibility of Steamed Cassava with Honey means you can tailor the recipe entirely to your own taste. You could add nuts or dried fruit, for example, to introduce extra texture and flavour. For a sharper element, a pinch of chilli or pepper adds an intriguing contrast to the sweet honey. Let your creativity run free to find the very best combination.

Ingredient substitutions

If you cannot find cassava, there are a few alternatives worth considering. Sweet potatoes or regular potatoes are a good option too, though they bring a different texture and flavour. You can also vary the dish with different sweeteners, such as stevia or coconut sugar, to achieve different levels of sweetness. Experiment with various combinations to create your perfect dish — the same spirit of substitution that makes Sweet Potato Mash with Honey so versatile.

Drink pairing ideas

To round off Steamed Cassava with Honey harmoniously, the right drinks make all the difference. A refreshing Coconut Water or a cold glass of homemade lemonade pairs wonderfully and captures the tropical flair of Fiji. Alternatively, you could whip up a fruity smoothie from tropical fruits such as mango or pineapple to complement the dish. Remember to consider the mood and setting when choosing your drinks too!

Serving and presentation ideas

Presentation can make a big difference to the overall impression of your dish. Serve Steamed Cassava with Honey in a traditional bowl and garnish it with a few fresh herbs or a pinch of cinnamon. Using colourful crockery can also help make the dish more visually appealing. Take the time to consider not just the taste but the visual aesthetic too, and you will be sure to impress your guests.

A bit of history

The story of Steamed Cassava with Honey reaches deep into the history of Fiji. Cassava is a staple food that the indigenous peoples of the Pacific islands have cultivated for centuries. The use of honey as a natural sweetener has likewise become established over generations, and the combination of these ingredients shows the creativity and resilience of Fijian culture. By bringing this preparation into your own meals, you can experience a piece of this rich tradition and the wider world of Fijian cuisine.

More recipe ideas

Summary: Steamed Cassava with Honey

In short, Steamed Cassava with Honey is a simple yet flavourful dish that is rich in traditional character. It reflects the cultural roots of Fiji while offering a wealth of ways to adapt it to your own liking. Whether you serve it as a side or a snack, the combination of hearty cassava and sweet honey is sure to satisfy you and your guests alike. Savour the flavours of this exotic island and let the passion of Fijian cooking inspire you!