Experience a timeless tradition with Aged Muktuk, a cherished delicacy of Indigenous Inuit and Inuvialuit cuisine. This unique recipe involves the careful preparation and aging of beluga whale blubber, creating a savory and culturally significant dish enjoyed as a snack or a part of traditional meals.
Ingredients
馃惓 Large pieces of Beluga Whale Muktuk (white middle layer "uksuk"), cut into desired sizes
馃挧 Water (preferably from the harbor where the whale was harvested)
馃Щ Paper Towel/Rag
Instructions
1- Initial Separation and Trimming:
- Harvest the muktuk from a freshly caught beluga whale, focusing on the white blubber layer ("uksuk").
- Using a sharp knife, carefully remove any excess meat and blood to obtain clean, white blubber.
2- Cleaning and Cutting:
- Continue trimming to remove all traces of blood from the "uksuk".
- Slice the blubber into pieces approximately 3/4 to 1 inch thick.
- Cut these into smaller blocks (around 2x2x1.5 inches) or long strips resembling spaghetti noodles.
3- Soaking:
- Place the cut blubber into a black plastic bin filled with water to soak for 20 minutes, which helps extract remaining blood.
4- Drying:
- Remove muktuk from water and lay on a flat surface to dry, wiping with paper towels to ensure all moisture and blood are removed.
5- Preparation for Aging:
- In a clean 5-gallon white plastic pail, create a foundation layer with "uksuk".
- Layer sliced muktuk over, ensuring the skin side faces upwards.
- Alternate layers of "uksuk" and muktuk until the pail is 3/4 full.
6- Fermentation:
- Cover the pail with a breathable cloth secured by an elastic band to allow air circulation.
- Stir daily with clean hands to mix layers and ensure even fermentation.
7- Aging:
- Ferment in suitable ambient temperatures for 5-10 days.
Prep Time: Approximately 45 minutes
Aging Time: 5-10 days
Total Time: Approximately 5-10 days
Servings: Varies
Equipment: Large Cutting Surface/Table, Sharp Knife, Gloves, Large Container/Bin, White Plastic Pail, Breathable Cloth & Elastic Band
Cooking Tips
- Ensure meticulous blood removal to enhance aging and flavor.
- Weather influences aging time significantly, impacting the delicacy's successful fermentation.
- Avoid placing the aging pail on the ground to prevent spoilage.
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