Laoka

In Madagascar, laoka is the name given to a variety of side dishes and accompaniments that are served with rice. Most laokas are served in some type of sauce – in coastal areas the ingredients are usually prepared with coconut milk, while in the highlands the sauce is based on tomatoes. Here are just some of the ingredients used for laoka: cassava leaves, peanuts, groundnuts, seafood, various local greens, yams, maize, and sweet potatoes. Some laokas are also served with a spicy condiment called sakay, made with chili peppers, ginger, and garlic.