FIONA SMITH PARCELS UP LITTLE BUNDLES OF GOODNESS.
A little parcel of food is like a gift on your plate. You find examples of food wrapped in leaves in many cultures; the leaves can impart flavour, retain moisture and protect from vigorous heat sources, such as fire. Wrapping individual parcels is a bit time consuming, so best kept for a weekend or when you have a bit of time.
Many of the leaves I have used here are interchangeable; certainly banana leaves are very versatile as you can cut them to any desired size and they have a neutral flavour. Fig imparts a very interesting, fragrant, even coconut flavour. I have used them for a dessert here, but they are also great for fish and chicken – you could try them with the taro and trevally parcels. If you are using fresh leaves, make sure they are spray free.
