Oka Ula

Oka Ula

Oka Ula (OH-kah OO-lah)

Coconut Lime Prawns

Prep Time 25 min
📈 Difficulty Easy
👥 Servings
4
🔥 Calories 218 kcal

Succulent raw prawns cured in lime juice and tossed with coconut cream, cucumber, tomato, and chili, a seafood variation of Samoa's beloved oka.

Nutrition & Info

220 kcal per serving
Protein 24.0g
Carbs 8.0g
Fat 10.0g
Protein Carbs Fat

Dietary

gluten-free nut-free

Allergen Warnings

⚠ shellfish

Equipment Needed

mixing bowl sharp knife

Presentation Guide

Vessel: coconut shell bowl

Garnishes: lime wedge, chili slices

Accompaniments: taro chips

Instructions

  1. 1

    Butterfly the prawns and place in a bowl.

  2. 2

    Pour lime juice over prawns, ensuring all are submerged. Refrigerate 20 min until prawns turn pink and opaque.

  3. 3

    Drain most of the lime juice.

  4. 4

    Add coconut cream, cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, and chili.

  5. 5

    Toss gently and season with salt.

  6. 6

    Serve immediately, chilled.

💡

Did You Know?

The acid in lime juice effectively "cooks" the prawns through denaturation, the same chemical process that heat causes in proteins.

Chef's Notes

Equipment Tips

  • mixing bowl
  • sharp knife

Garnishing

lime wedge, chili slices

Accompaniments

taro chips

The Story Behind Oka Ula

Oka ula extends the ancient Polynesian tradition of curing raw seafood in citrus to prawns, which became available through modern aquaculture and imports. It demonstrates how Samoan cuisine continuously evolves while maintaining its core flavor principles of lime and coconut.

🕐 Traditionally enjoyed appetizer or light lunch 📜 Origins: Modern Samoan

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