Ota Ika
Ota Ika is a traditional Tongan raw fish salad, often considered the national dish. It features fresh, diced raw fish marinated in lime or lemon juice, then mixed with creamy coconut milk, finely diced onions, tomatoes, and sometimes chili peppers for a touch of spice. It's a refreshing and flavorful dish deeply connected to Tonga's maritime culture.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 lb Fresh fish fillets (e.g., tuna, mahi-mahi, snapper)(deboned and diced into small pieces)
- 0.75 cup Lime or lemon juice(freshly squeezed)
- 1 cup Coconut milk(full fat, well shaken)
- 0.5 medium Red onion(finely diced)
- 2 medium Tomatoes(diced)
- 0.5 medium Cucumber(peeled, seeded, and diced (optional))
- 1 stalk Spring onion(finely chopped (for garnish))
- 1 tsp Salt(to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground, to taste)
- 1 tsp Chili paste or fresh chili(deseeded and finely chopped (optional, for spice))
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a mixing bowl, combine the diced fish with the lime or lemon juice. Stir well to ensure all fish pieces are coated. Let it marinate for 20-30 minutes, or longer if preferred, allowing the acidity to 'cook' the fish.
- 2
Drain off about half of the marinating liquid, or to your desired level of tartness. Add the coconut milk, diced red onion, diced tomatoes, and diced cucumber (if using) to the bowl with the fish.
💡 Tip: Leaving some of the lime/lemon juice in will make the dish more tart. - 3
Add salt, black pepper, and chili paste (if using). Gently toss all the ingredients together until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
💡 Tip: Ensure the coconut milk is well shaken before adding. - 4
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is crucial for the best taste.
💡 Tip: The longer it chills, the more the flavors will develop. - 5
Before serving, give the Ota Ika a final stir. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with chopped spring onions. Serve chilled.
💡 Tip: Serve with taro, cassava, or kumara for a complete Tongan meal.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use the freshest fish possible for the best flavor and texture.
- ✓Adjust the amount of lime or lemon juice to your preference for tartness.
- ✓For a spicier kick, add finely chopped fresh chilies or a dash of chili paste.
🔄 Variations
- Add other finely diced vegetables like bell peppers.
- Some variations include a small amount of finely chopped cilantro or parsley for freshness.