# 10 Best Foods You Must Try in Nauru

Nauru, a small island country in Micronesia, in the Central Pacific, may not be widely known for its cuisine, but it offers a unique fusion of flavors influenced by its Pacific Island heritage, colonial history, and the diversity of its community. Here’s a guide to the top 10 foods that you must try on your next visit to Nauru.

Coconut Fish

Fresh seafood is the cornerstone of Nauruan cuisine, and coconut fish is a delicious testament to this. Typically made with the catch of the day, the fish is marinated in lemon juice and coconut milk, and then either wrapped in banana leaves and grilled or baked to perfection. The dish delicately balances the richness of coconut with the tangy freshness of citrus.

Fish in Nauru is sourced from the surrounding pristine Pacific waters, which means a meal featuring coconut fish not only offers a taste of the local flavors but also provides a sense of the island’s environment. Trying this dish is a must for seafood aficionados and those interested in experiencing traditional Pacific Island cooking methods.

Palusami

Palusami is a delightful dish originating from Polynesian islands but also enjoyed in Nauru. It is made with taro leaves stuffed with coconut cream and sometimes onion, and it can feature meat or fish. The bundle is traditionally cooked in an underground oven called an “umu,” which gives it a unique, smoky flavor.

While visiting Nauru, Palusami presents an opportunity not only to indulge in a mouth-watering meal but also to delve into the communal aspect of Nauruan eating. Sharing a serving of Palusami often conveys a sense of belonging and participating in an age-old culinary tradition that has been passed down through generations.

Tuna

Nauru is surrounded by some of the world’s richest fishing grounds, and tuna is one of the most commonly caught fish in the area. It’s served in a variety of ways, from raw in sashimi to seared or grilled. When it’s fresh, which it almost always is in Nauru, it’s a simple yet exquisite dish.

One of the best ways to enjoy tuna in Nauru is at a seaside restaurant where the fish goes from the ocean to your plate in a matter of hours, if not less. Enjoying a slice of tuna with a squeeze of lemon and a dash of local spices gives a true taste of the ocean in a way that’s both healthy and sustainable.

Yaren Crab

Yaren crab is a specialty in Nauru, named after the island’s capital district. These crabs come from the local mangrove areas and are known for their sweet, tender meat. Cooked in a variety of styles, you might find Yaren crab simmered in coconut milk or grilled over an open flame.

For a truly Nauruan experience, seek out a traditional feast or “boe” where Yaren crab might be one of the central dishes. Crab season brings excitement and is the perfect opportunity for foodies and cultural enthusiasts to engage with the local community over some delicious, freshly-caught seafood.

Lobster

The warm, clear waters around Nauru make it an ideal place for lobsters to thrive. Nauruan lobster is typically prepared grilled, steamed, or sometimes served in a creamy sauce. Its succulent meat is a sought-after delicacy and a must-try for any visitor to the island.

Enjoying a lobster meal in Nauru is often accompanied by breathtaking ocean views and a relaxed island ambiance. This luxury food item reflects the natural wealth of the Pacific Ocean and is a savory highlight of the local diet.

Pandanus Fruit

Also known as “Screw Pine,” pandanus fruit is a common sight in the Pacific Islands, and so it is in Nauru. It’s consumed either raw or cooked and is recognized for its nutty flavor and starchy texture. Pandanus fruit is often used in desserts or eaten as a snack.

This fruit offers not just a taste of Nauruan flora but is also reflective of the island’s self-reliant food practices. Visitors may find pandanus fruit served at local markets or as part of a more extensive meal, giving them a direct connection to Nauru’s environment and agriculture.

Gedageda

Gedageda is a traditional Nauruan recipe – a type of seafood soup or stew. Made from fresh local catch which might include fish, clams, and other shellfish, it’s seasoned with ginger, garlic, and sometimes chili, providing a hearty and warming meal that speaks to the soul of Nauru’s cuisine.

Sampling Gedageda is not just about enjoying the flavors, but it’s also about understanding the island’s reliance on its surrounding sea. The broth is deeply flavorful and savory, embodying the essence of Nauru’s natural food resources.

Octopus

Octopus is another staple ingredient in Nauruan cuisine. Tender and rich in taste, it is often grilled or added to stews. The traditional preparation may include marinating the meat in citrus juice or coconut milk to tenderize it before cooking.

An octopus dish in Nauru is often a community affair, where the preparation and enjoyment of the meal become a shared activity. For visitors, it’s not only about savoring the distinctive taste of octopus but also about participating in a communal culinary experience.

Banana Fritters

Bananas are abundant in Nauru, and one of the popular ways they are used in local cuisine is by making banana fritters. These sweet treats are made by battering and deep-frying banana slices until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside while remaining soft and sweet on the inside.

Banana fritters can be found at nearly any local gathering and are as much of a comfort food in Nauru as they are an everyday snack. They can be enjoyed on their own, dusted with sugar, or served with a dollop of ice cream for an indulgent twist.

Coconut Toddy

Coconut toddy, also known as “tuba,” is a traditional Nauruan beverage. It’s made from the sap of the coconut palm and can be consumed fresh or after it has been fermented to create a mildly alcoholic drink. This traditional beverage is an integral part of Nauruan culture and socializing.

Sipping on coconut toddy is an authentic way to wind down your day in Nauru, just as the locals do. Whether you prefer it fresh or as an island-style alcoholic beverage, coconut toddy is a taste of Nauruan hospitality and warmth.

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When visiting Nauru, each meal offers an opportunity to engage with the island’s culture and history. While the country may not have a large number of eco-hotels, you can still find accommodations that strive to respect the local environment. To find a place that fits this ethos, visit ETIC Hotels to book an eco-friendly hotel in Nauru. Travel responsibly while indulging in the flavors that make Nauruan cuisine so wonderfully unique.