The Pacific Island Food Revolution has unveiled a new cookbook, titled “Eat Pacific,” during an event at EDEN restaurant in Samabula on Wednesday evening. This cookbook is curated by Robert Oliver, an acclaimed chef and the TV host of the Pacific Island Food Revolution series.
The foreword for the cookbook was contributed by Her Royal Highness Princess Salote Mafile’u Pilolevu Tuita of Tonga, who emphasized the importance of cherishing and protecting the region’s agricultural heritage. She noted, “We are admired around the globe for our pristine region and the bountiful harvests that our forebears cherished and sustained. I urge you all to take this to heart, to protect the produce of our land and sea that is our inheritance.”
The over 400-page book showcases an array of vibrant recipes from Fiji and various Pacific islands, drawing inspiration from the highly-regarded television series, which is currently in its third season. In his address, Mr. Oliver spoke about the immense potential of Pacific island cuisine and how it could play a significant role in economic and cultural identity, similar to the impact of food in countries like Thailand.
Deputy Speaker of Parliament Lenora Qereqeretabua recognized Mr. Oliver’s efforts, expressing pride in the international spotlight on Pacific food showcased by their community. She acknowledged that the cooking challenges presented in the series addressed relevant regional issues, particularly concerning health and nutrition. She highlighted the ongoing battle against non-communicable diseases, warning about the dangers of substituting traditional foods with processed alternatives.
The cookbook is currently available for purchase at Baka Bookstore located on McGregor Road in Suva and will soon be offered at the University of the South Pacific Bookshop.