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Rihaakuru: The Deeply Traditional Tuna Paste

Rihaakuru: The Deeply Traditional Tuna Paste

Rihaakuru is one of the most distinctive foods in the Maldivian kitchen. It is made by cooking tuna in water and salt, removing the fish, and slowly reducing the remaining broth until it becomes a thick, concentrated paste.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: maldive

Ingredients
  

1 kg fresh tuna, cut into large pieces
1.5 liters water
2 teaspoons salt, or to taste
1 small onion, roughly sliced
4–5 curry leaves
2–3 fresh chilies, optional
1 small piece fresh ginger, sliced
1 teaspoon black peppercorns
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice, optional, for serving

Method
 

Place the tuna, water, salt, onion, curry leaves, ginger, and black peppercorns in a large heavy-bottomed pot and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and simmer until the tuna is completely cooked and the cooking liquid has developed a rich, savory flavor. Carefully remove the tuna pieces and set them aside for another dish, then strain the liquid to remove the aromatics and return the clear broth to the pot. Continue simmering the broth uncovered over low heat, stirring occasionally, until much of the water evaporates and the liquid gradually becomes thick, dark, and concentrated. This reduction can take several hours, so patience is essential. Once the mixture reaches a thick paste-like consistency, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool slightly before transferring it to a clean container.

    Video

    Notes

    Low and slow is the secret to good rihaakuru. Don't rush the reduction by using high heat, because the concentrated tuna liquid can easily scorch. A gentle simmer allows the flavors to deepen gradually and produces a richer, more authentic paste.