Tongan-style Chikuwa Delight

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the traditional Japanese chikuwa is enhanced with Tongan flavors and cooking techniques. The original Japanese chikuwa is typically served as a standalone snack or used in soups and stews. However, in the Tongan-style Chikuwa Delight, the chikuwa is marinated in Tongan spices and grilled to perfection, giving it a unique smoky flavor and charred texture. We alse have the original recipe for Chikuwa, so you can check it out.

• 8 chikuwa fish cakes 8 chikuwa fish cakes
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (30ml) 2 tablespoons soy sauce (30ml)
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (30ml) 2 tablespoons lemon juice (30ml)
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar (15g) 1 tablespoon brown sugar (15g)
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger (15g) 1 tablespoon grated ginger (15g)
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic (15g) 1 tablespoon minced garlic (15g)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (15ml) 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (15ml)
• 1 teaspoon paprika (5g) 1 teaspoon paprika (5g)
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper (5g) 1 teaspoon ground black pepper (5g)
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes (5g) 1 teaspoon chili flakes (5g)
• Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 12g, 4g
• Protein: 15g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, lemon juice, brown sugar, grated ginger, minced garlic, vegetable oil, paprika, black pepper, and chili flakes.
2. 2.
   Add the chikuwa fish cakes to the marinade and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. 4.
   Grill the marinated chikuwa fish cakes for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are slightly charred and heated through.
5. 5.
   Remove the chikuwa from the grill and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
6. 6.
   Serve hot and enjoy the Tongan-style Chikuwa Delight!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Chikuwa fish cakes — Ensure that the chikuwa is fully thawed before marinating and grilling. This will ensure even cooking and optimal flavor absorption.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, increase the amount of chili flakes in the marinade.
• Serve the Tongan-style Chikuwa Delight with a side of steamed rice or fresh salad for a complete meal.
• If you don't have a grill, you can also cook the chikuwa fish cakes on a stovetop grill pan or in the oven under the broiler.

Serving advice

Serve the Tongan-style Chikuwa Delight as an appetizer or as a main course accompanied by steamed rice and a side of fresh salad. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves for an added burst of flavor and visual appeal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the grilled chikuwa fish cakes on a platter, garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, and serve with a vibrant salad on the side. The contrasting colors and textures will make the dish visually appealing.