Why “Samoan Delights” Just Made History
Some wins are about prestige. Some are about validation. And some mean far more than a trophy ever could.
“Samoan Delights” has officially been crowned Best South Pacific Cookbook in the World at the 31st Gourmand World Cookbook Awards. For a book rooted in family kitchens, handwritten notes, and passed-down knowledge, this moment is nothing short of historic.
If you already own a copy, you are holding something rare. If you do not, this is your invitation to understand why this book now sits among the world’s best.
What Are the Gourmand Awards and Why Do They Matter?
The Gourmand World Cookbook Awards are widely regarded as the highest global recognition in food publishing. Often compared to the Oscars of the cookbook world, they were founded in 1995 by Edouard Cointreau and are inspired by the Olympic spirit of excellence.
Each year, the awards honour the best food and wine books, printed and digital, across 222 countries. Winners are selected from thousands of entries, judged not only on recipes, but on cultural significance, storytelling, photography, and contribution to global food heritage.
This is not a popularity contest. This is the world’s most respected culinary benchmark. And this year, Samoan food stood at the top.
More Than a Cookbook, This Is Cultural Preservation
“Samoan Delights” was never created to chase awards. It was created for families, for children growing up far from home, for parents wanting their kids to taste where they came from, and for elders who feared certain recipes might be forgotten.
Inside are 24 authentic Samoan dishes, written clearly and simply so anyone can cook them. From Palusami and Pani Popo to Keke Pua’a and Suafai, these are not modern reinterpretations or watered-down versions. These are the real recipes, passed through generations and finally documented with care.
Every page carries memory. Every dish carries identity. That is what the Gourmand judges recognised.
Why This Win Matters for Samoa
Global recognition changes perception. For too long, Samoan food has been underrepresented on the world stage, often reduced to stereotypes or overlooked entirely. This award places Samoan cuisine exactly where it belongs, alongside the most celebrated food cultures on earth.
It tells the world that Samoan food is not just delicious. It is intentional. It is refined. It is worthy of study, respect, and celebration.
This win is not just for one book. It is for a culture.
A Book People Do Not Just Read, They Keep
Readers consistently say the same thing:
- “This is the best quality hardcover I own.”
- “My mum will not stop talking about it.”
- “A must-have for all Samoan households.”
- “It brought back memories I forgot I had.”
Printed in full colour, bound as a premium hardcover, and photographed with depth and respect, this is a book people leave on their coffee table and pass down, not one that gets lost on a shelf.
It is practical enough to cook from. Beautiful enough to display. Meaningful enough to gift.
If You Own It, You Own a Piece of History
If you bought “Samoan Delights” for yourself or as a gift, you did more than purchase a cookbook.
- You helped preserve culture.
- You helped amplify Samoan voices.
- You helped place Samoan food on the global map.
And now, officially, you own an award-winning piece of history.
Get Your Copy
Books like this do not come around often.
- A globally recognised cookbook
- Authentic recipes
- Cultural legacy
- International acclaim
Whether you are Samoan, part of the diaspora, or simply someone who values real food and real stories, this is a book worth owning.
Bring home the flavours that raised generations. Celebrate the culture the world just recognised.
