Papua New Guinea (PNG), located in the South Pacific, is one of the most culturally diverse countries in the world, with more than 800 languages spoken and a wide variety of tribes and cultures. The first human traces date back more than 50,000 years, which testifies to the antiquity and richness of local traditions. Papua New Guinea was influenced by European exploration in the 19th century, notably by German and British settlers, before becoming an Australian-administered territory. The country gained independence in 1975. Today, people in PNG continue ancient tribal traditions, including through ceremonies, ritual dances and cultural festivities like the Goroka Festival .
Papua New Guinea is a fascinating destination where ancient traditions and wilderness meet to provide an unforgettable cultural experience.
Traditional Gastronomy and Gluten Free Options
Papua New Guinean cuisine is influenced by its abundant local resources. Meals are often based on simple products like fish, tropical fruits, root vegetables and coconut milk. Stewing in underground ovens, called mumu , is a common and traditional method. Many dishes are naturally gluten-free due to the use of fresh produce and grain-free base ingredients.
Here are some naturally gluten-free Papuan dishes:
- Mumu : A traditional dish prepared in an underground oven, where root vegetables like taro and yam, pork or fish are stewed with banana leaves.
- Sago : A staple food made from sago palm flour, made into pancakes or dumplings.
- Bougna : Similar to mumu, bougna involves cooking chicken, fish or pork with vegetables and coconut milk in banana leaves.
- Grilled Fish : Fish is a staple of local cuisine, often grilled with fresh herbs and spices.
These dishes illustrate the simplicity and authenticity of Papua New Guinean cuisine, while being suitable for gluten-free diets.
The Must-See Things to Visit in Papua New Guinea
Papua New Guinea is a country of varied landscapes and fascinating cultures. Here are some must-see sites to discover during your trip:
- Port Moresby : The country's capital, with the Varirata National Park , the National Parliament and the National Botanical Garden .
- Waghi Valley : Known for its famous Goroka Festival , where local tribes showcase their traditional dances and outfits.
- Kokoda Track : A historic 96km trail through rainforests, famous for its significance during World War II.
- Trobriand Islands : Known as the “Islands of Love,” these islands offer a unique insight into matriarchal traditions and local rituals.
These destinations will allow you to discover the cultural and natural diversity of Papua New Guinea, an extraordinary country.
Recipes
Pink praline pie: a Lyonnaise specialty revisited without gluten.
Gluten -free tiramisu with white chocolate, raspberries and pink pralines.
Japanese onigiri recipe: stuffed rice dumplings, gluten -free.
Onigirazu, or Japanese sandwich, at the yuzu marinated bar.
Manga bolo: the soft Brazilian cake and melting mango, gluten -free.
