Feléafelé

Feléafelé is a traditional Fijian dish. It is a type of baked dish, often cooked in an underground oven called an *earth oven* or *lovo*. The preparation typically involves wrapping ingredients in large leaves, such as banana or taro leaves, before being placed in the earth oven. Common ingredients for feléafelé include root vegetables like taro and cassava, as well as various meats, seafood, and sometimes fruits.

The cooking process in a lovo involves heating stones in a pit, then covering them with leaves and the food parcels. The pit is then covered with more leaves and soil, allowing the food to steam and bake slowly for several hours. This method imparts a unique smoky flavor and tender texture to the ingredients. Feléafelé is often prepared for special occasions, feasts, and gatherings in Fijian culture, representing community and celebration. The specific ingredients and preparation methods can vary between different regions and families within Fiji.