It's A Long Way To The Topai If You Wanna Rock 'N' Roll

NATIONAL DISH OF TONGA - Topai

Topai is made up of two components: flour dumplings and a coconut caramel syrup. That is pretty much all. If you're thinking "that doesn't seem thrilling enough for a nation to deem it their national dish", well then you've obviously never tasted Tongan coconut caramel syrup.

To emphasis how good this coconut caramel syrup is, I HATE COCONUT! In any form. Not a fan. In fact the only joy coconut has brought into my life came as a result from one of the Molefaces posing a question about food served during Christmas. Being of the Jewish faith she was not familiar with the cuisine normally eaten during Christmas, so she asked: "Is Christmas coconutty? I imagine that it is coconutty." And thus the birth of Coconutty Christmas Times! Suffice to say, if someone that doesn't enjoy coconut ends up liking something with coconut in it, then it be one tasty dish!

Topai is commonly made at funerals, being that it is inexpensive, quick and easy to make for many mourners. Another reason I believe, is that the heavenly coconut caramel syrup is so good, it has to help with the grieving process.


So enjoy, or as they say in Tonga, Enjoy! (could not find the equivalent Tongan phrase, if anyone out there can help I'd be much obliged )




For a Tongan delight, follow this link: http://www.eua-island-tonga.com/Tongan-recipes.html

Difficulty:       5 

Appearance:  2 

Taste:             3 

TOTAL:        10

The process of making the dumplings and syrup is pretty easy. I would make the dumpling smaller though so they cook thoroughly. Also the smaller dumplings may limit the doughy taste. It is also important to watch the syrup so it doesn't burn. If necessary, add more coconut cream. That is unless you don't like coconut as well.