Recipes from American Samoa: Oka Popo (Raw Fish Stew)

Recipes from American Samoa


Oka Popo (Raw Fish Stew)

Country: American Samoa
Course: Appetizer or Main



Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons salt
  • 2 cups water
  • pepper
  • 1 lb raw fish, cut into bite-sized pieces (marlin or swordfish is traditional, but you can also use sushi-grade tuna)
  • 1/2 cup cubed cucumber, seeds removed
  • 1 tomato, chopped
  • 1/2 one onion, finely diced
  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
  • juice of one lime
  • salt and pepper

Directions:

  1. Mix the salt, pepper and water together to make a brine. Add the fish pieces and soak for 30 to 45 minutes.
  2. Meanwhile, chop the vegetables.
  3. At the end of the brining, drain the fish and add the coconut milk, the chopped vegetables, the cilantro and lime juice. You could also add half a finely chopped jalapeƱo, if you like it spicy.
  4. Now put it back in the fridge--it's traditionally served cold.