Papua New Guinea, or PNG as the locals call it. A place I know very little about, but as always I am eager to learn! Over 800 languages are spoken in PNG, there is no other country in the world where there are more languages spoken! Every tribe has it’s own language, customs and traditions. PNG is a nature lover’s paradise. From the misty heights of Mount Wilhelm to the coral wonderland beneath the waves, this country has it all. The biodiversity is mind-boggling, with exotic flora and fauna around every corner. And did I mention the active volcanoes?

Things you didn’t know about Papua New Guinea:

• The Huli Wigmen of the Southern Highlands are known for their elaborate headdresses made from human hair. These wigs are an essential part of their cultural identity and are used in various ceremonies.
• Rugby is a popular sport in Papua New Guinea, and the locals are known for their passionate enthusiasm. The country has a unique tradition where, during rugby matches, you might see spectators waving packets of instant noodles instead of foam fingers!
• In some areas, coconuts are used as a form of currency. While it may not be widely practiced, the idea of coconuts as a medium of exchange adds a humorous touch to local economies.
• In some coastal areas, traditional houses are built on stilts. This architectural choice serves not only practical purposes, such as protection from flooding, but also provides a unique and picturesque sight.

In some regions, yams are highly esteemed, and there are even yam festivals celebrating their importance. Yams are often used as a symbol of wealth and status. So Kau Kau is a twice baked potato with lots of other ingredients added to the mash! It’s basically a sweet potato curry stuffed in a potatoskin. Which is brilliant and healthy!

Ingredients:

• 2 sweet potatoes
• 2 tablespoons of coconutmilk
• grated coconut
• orange zest and juice of 1/2 orange
• 1/2 red onion (diced)
• grated ginger (to taste)
• grated garlic (to taste)
• minced red pepper (to taste)
• salt
• crispy fried onions
• cilantro

Recipe:

1. Preheat your oven to 200C
2. Stab the sweet potatoes with a fork and wrap them in aluminium foil. Put them in a bakingtray in the oven for 1 hour 15 minutes. Until the potatoes are soft.
3. Cut them lengthwise in half and scoop out the insides. KEEP THE SKINS.
4. Add the insides to a bowl and add the coconutmilk, grated coconust, zest, juice, red onion , garlic, ginger, red pepper. Mash everything together. And scoop back into the sweet potatoskins. Finish with more grated coconut
5. Put them back in the until the mash is hot and the coconut is golden.
6. Mince the cilantro and add some crispy fried onions for crunch.
7. Enjoy!