Transport your taste buds to the tropical paradise of the Cook Islands with this delightful and authentic Cook Islands Poke recipe. This traditional island dessert is a luscious combination of creamy coconut, ripe bananas or pawpaw, and the silky smooth texture of arrowroot starch, creating a decadent treat thatβs both comforting and exotic. Sweetened with just a touch of sugar and infused with vanillaβs warm aroma, it offers a perfect balance of flavors. Simple to prepare in under 30 minutes, this gluten-free dessert is ideal for serving warm or at room temperature, making it a versatile and crowd-pleasing option. Elevate the experience by garnishing with shredded coconut or an extra drizzle of coconut cream for a truly indulgent finish.
Peel and slice the bananas (or pawpaw) into thin pieces and set aside.
In a medium saucepan, mix the arrowroot powder, water, and sugar until dissolved and smooth.
Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir continuously to avoid lumps as the mixture starts to thicken.
Once the mixture becomes a glossy, translucent paste, reduce the heat to low and add the coconut cream, stirring well to combine.
Stir in the vanilla extract and salt, blending all the flavors together.
Add the sliced bananas (or pawpaw) into the pot and carefully fold them into the mixture to coat evenly.
Cook on low heat for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the fruit to soften slightly.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the poke cool slightly before transferring it to serving bowls or a shallow dish.
Serve warm or at room temperature. Optional: garnish with shredded coconut or a drizzle of fresh coconut cream.
Calories |
2384 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 66.4 g | 85% | |
| Saturated Fat | 62.3 g | 312% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.6 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 756 mg | 33% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 445.9 g | 162% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 14.2 g | 51% | |
| Total Sugars | 299.6 g | ||
| Protein | 8.9 g | 18% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 114 mg | 9% | |
| Iron | 1.8 mg | 10% | |
| Potassium | 1693 mg | 36% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.