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A Taste of the Umu got mouths watering

By Caitlyn Grant

Apr 5, 2022

Host: Aunty Aisa Pele spoke to the crowd about Samoan tradition while cooking. Photo by Megan Fisher

Strolling past KidsTown on Sunday, April 3, the flavours of an umu-cooked feast would have lured in any passerby.

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As part of the Shepparton Culture Kitchen project, the session A Taste of the Umu was developed by local Samoan woman Leaisa Pele, known as Aunty Aisa, with collaboration from artist Jamie Lewis.

Attendees had front-row seats to how traditional Samoan dishes are made on an umu, the above-ground oven made with hot stones, while also being guided through and given wisdom by Mrs Pele as she cooked.

The News photographer Megan Fisher was among the action.

Having fun: Luca Tunumafona, 3, with Leapanga Pele. Photo by Megan Fisher

Coming together: People gathered and watched as the food was being prepared. Photo by Megan Fisher

Delicious: Kimberley Shu admiring the food. Photo by Megan Fisher

Enjoying the day: Oliver, 5, and Alex Andersson. Photo by Megan Fisher

Hanging out: Patrick Valoia with Luca Tunumafona, 3. Photo by Megan Fisher

Family time: Helen, 9, with her mum, Nimo Tunumafona. Photo by Megan Fisher

Following tradition: In the traditional way of cooking in Samoan culture, men do most of the cooking, and also take the hot rocks and food out from the fire. Photo by Megan Fisher

Big grins: Mellisa Silaga and Ofeira Satele pulling apart the meat for people to enjoy. Photo by Megan Fisher

Family fun: Aneti Fotu, 9, Monica, 9, Daley, 7, and Helen Tunumafona, 9. Photo by Megan Fisher

Feast: Many people gathered to try the Samoan food. Photo by Megan Fisher

By Caitlyn Grant

Shepparton News journalist

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