Ota Ika

Ota Ika

Ota Ika (OH-tah EE-kah)

Raw Fish in Coconut Cream

Prep Time 25 min
📈 Difficulty Easy
👥 Servings
4
🔥 Calories 242 kcal

Fresh raw fish marinated in lime juice and smothered in coconut cream with vegetables. Tonga's signature dish.

Nutrition & Info

240 kcal per serving
Protein 32.0g
Carbs 6.0g
Fat 10.0g
Protein Carbs Fat

Dietary

gluten-free nut-free

Allergen Warnings

⚠ fish

Equipment Needed

knife bowl

Presentation Guide

Vessel: bowl

Garnishes: lime, chili

Accompaniments: taro

Instructions

  1. 1

    Dice fish into small cubes.

  2. 2

    Toss with lime juice, sit 20 minutes.

  3. 3

    Drain excess lime juice.

  4. 4

    Add coconut cream, cucumber, tomato, onion, pepper.

  5. 5

    Season with salt.

  6. 6

    Serve chilled immediately.

💡

Did You Know?

Ota ika is so beloved in Tonga that it appears on menus from breakfast through dinner.

Chef's Notes

Equipment Tips

  • knife
  • bowl

Garnishing

lime, chili

Accompaniments

taro

The Story Behind Ota Ika

Ota ika is arguably the most iconic dish of Tongan cuisine. The technique of curing raw fish in citrus predates European contact by centuries.

The generous coating of coconut cream distinguishes the Tongan version from similar Pacific dishes.

Ota ika is the centerpiece of Tongan feasts and the dish that best represents the islands' culinary identity.

🕐 Traditionally enjoyed any meal, celebrations 📜 Origins: Ancient

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