Traditional dishes and drinks of Kiribati include coconut crab, ika mata (raw fish salad), and toddy (fermented coconut sap). The best places to try them are local markets and restaurants. Experience Kiribati’s unique flavors and culture through its local cuisine.

Exploring Kiribati’s Local Cuisine: Traditional Dishes and Drinks to Try and Where to Find Them

Kiribati, a small island nation located in the Pacific Ocean, is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant culture. But what many travelers may not know is that Kiribati also boasts a unique and delicious local cuisine that is worth exploring. In this article, we will take a closer look at some of the traditional dishes and drinks of Kiribati, as well as where to find them.

One of the most popular dishes in Kiribati is called Te Bua, which is a type of coconut pudding. Made with grated coconut, sugar, and cornstarch, Te Bua is a sweet and creamy dessert that is often served at special occasions such as weddings and birthdays. It can be found at local bakeries and restaurants throughout the country, but one of the best places to try it is at the weekly Saturday market in the capital city of Tarawa.

Another must-try dish in Kiribati is Ika Mata, a raw fish salad that is similar to ceviche. Made with fresh tuna or other local fish, Ika Mata is marinated in lime juice and coconut cream, then mixed with diced tomatoes, onions, and chili peppers. The result is a refreshing and flavorful dish that is perfect for a hot day. Ika Mata can be found at many restaurants and food stalls in Kiribati, but one of the best places to try it is at the popular restaurant called The Moorings in Tarawa.

For those who prefer meat dishes, Kiribati has plenty to offer as well. One of the most popular meat dishes is called Rukau, which is a type of taro leaf soup. Made with coconut milk, onions, and either chicken or beef, Rukau is a hearty and filling dish that is perfect for a cool evening. It can be found at many local restaurants and food stalls throughout Kiribati, but one of the best places to try it is at the restaurant called The Reef in Tarawa.

In addition to these traditional dishes, Kiribati also has a variety of unique drinks that are worth trying. One of the most popular drinks is called Betel Nut Juice, which is made from the seeds of the betel nut tree. The seeds are ground up and mixed with water, then strained to create a refreshing and slightly bitter drink. Betel Nut Juice can be found at many local markets and street vendors throughout Kiribati, but one of the best places to try it is at the Betio Market in Tarawa.

Another popular drink in Kiribati is called Kava, which is made from the roots of the Kava plant. Kava is known for its relaxing and calming effects, and is often consumed during social gatherings and ceremonies. It has a slightly bitter taste and a numbing effect on the tongue and lips. Kava can be found at many local bars and restaurants throughout Kiribati, but one of the best places to try it is at the Kava House in Tarawa.

Overall, Kiribati’s local cuisine is a unique and delicious blend of flavors and ingredients that is sure to delight any traveler. Whether you are looking for sweet desserts, refreshing salads, hearty soups, or unique drinks, Kiribati has something to offer. So the next time you find yourself in this beautiful island nation, be sure to explore the local cuisine and discover all that it has to offer.