Indulge in the flavors of the South Pacific with Kiribati Ika Mata, a traditional Polynesian dish that captures the essence of freshness and simplicity. This exquisite delicacy features tender pieces of raw fish, typically tuna or other local catch, marinated in a luscious blend of creamy coconut and tangy lime. Each bite is a burst of tropical goodness, with the coconut cream imparting a rich, velvety texture that beautifully complements the fresh, succulent fish. Whether enjoyed as a refreshing appetizer or a light main course, Kiribati Ika Mata is a culinary journey to the sun-kissed shores of Kiribati, where the ocean meets the coconut palms.

Here's a traditional recipe for Kiribati Ika Mata, a delightful Polynesian dish:

Ingredients:

 - 1 lb fresh tuna or other firm white fish, sushi-grade, cubed

 - 1 cup coconut cream

 - 2 limes, juiced

 - 1 medium tomato, diced

 - 1 small red onion, finely diced

 - 1 cucumber, diced

 - 1/2 red bell pepper, diced (optional) -

 - 1/2 yellow bell pepper, diced (optional)

 - 1/2 bunch cilantro (coriander), chopped

 - Salt and pepper to taste

 - Chili pepper or hot sauce (optional, for added heat)

 - Lime wedges and fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Instructions:

Prepare the Fish:

1- Rinse the fish cubes under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.

2- Cut the fish into bite-sized cubes and place them in a large mixing bowl.

Marinate the Fish:

1- In a separate bowl, combine the coconut cream and lime juice. Mix well.

2- Pour the coconut-lime mixture over the fish, making sure all the pieces are coated.

3- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. The longer it marinates, the more the flavors will develop.

Prepare the Vegetables:

1- While the fish is marinating, prepare the vegetables.

2- Dice the tomato, red onion, cucumber, and bell peppers (if using). Chop the cilantro.

Assemble the Dish:

1- After the fish has marinated, remove it from the refrigerator.

2- Gently fold in the diced tomatoes, red onion, cucumber, bell peppers, and chopped cilantro into the marinated fish.

3- Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you like it spicy, add chopped chili pepper or a dash of hot sauce.

Chill and Serve:

1- Cover the bowl again and place it back in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes to chill and allow the flavors to meld together.

2- Once chilled, give it a final gentle toss to mix everything together.

3- Serve the Kiribati Ika Mata in individual bowls or plates, garnished with lime wedges and fresh cilantro leaves.

Enjoy:

1- Enjoy this refreshing and flavorful dish as an appetizer or a light main course.

2- The creamy coconut, tangy lime, and fresh fish create a perfect balance of flavors that will transport you to the islands of Kiribati.

Tips:

 - Use fresh, sushi-grade fish for the best results. Tuna is a popular choice, but you can also use other firm white fish like mahi-mahi or snapper.

 - Adjust the amount of lime juice and coconut cream to suit your taste preferences.

 - For added freshness, you can also add a bit of diced pineapple or mango to the dish.

 - This dish is best served chilled, so make sure to refrigerate it before serving.

 - Serve with some crispy tortilla chips or toasted bread on the side for scooping up the delicious marinated fish and vegetables.

Enjoy your Kiribati Ika Mata!

Nutritional Values:

Here are the approximate nutritional values for the main ingredients in the Kiribati Ika Mata recipe:

1 lb Fresh Tuna or Other Firm White Fish, Sushi-Grade, Cubed:

  - Calories: 320 kcal

  - Fat: 12 g

  - Carbohydrates: 0 g

  - Protein: 60 g

Benefits: High in lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health, muscle growth, and overall wellness. Provides essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B12 and selenium.

1 Cup Coconut Cream:

  - Calories: 450 kcal

  - Fat: 48 g

  - Carbohydrates: 6 g

  - Protein: 3 g

Benefits: Rich in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) which support energy levels and metabolism. Adds a creamy texture and flavor to dishes, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

2 Limes, Juiced:

  - Calories: 30 kcal

  - Fat: 0 g

  - Carbohydrates: 8 g

  - Protein: 0.5 g

Benefits: High in vitamin C and antioxidants, supports immune function, aids in digestion, and enhances flavor without adding many calories.

1 Medium Tomato, Diced:

  - Calories: 22 kcal

  - Fat: 0 g

  - Carbohydrates: 5 g

  - Protein: 1 g

Benefits: Rich in vitamins A and C, antioxidants like lycopene, and dietary fiber. Supports heart health, boosts immunity, and contributes to overall wellness.

1 Small Red Onion, Finely Diced:

  - Calories: 45 kcal

  - Fat: 0 g

  - Carbohydrates: 11 g

  - Protein: 1g

Benefits: Contains antioxidants and compounds that may support heart health, regulate blood sugar levels, and enhance immune function.

1 Cucumber, Diced:

  - Calories: 16 kcal

  - Fat: 0 g

  - Carbohydrates: 4 g

  - Protein: 1 g

Benefits: Provides hydration, vitamins K and C, and antioxidants. Supports digestion and contributes to skin health.

1/2 Red Bell Pepper, Diced (Optional):

  - Calories: 12 kcal

  - Fat: 0 g

  - Carbohydrates: 3 g

  - Protein: 0.5 g

Benefits: High in vitamins A and C, and antioxidants. Supports eye health, boosts immunity, and adds color and flavor.

1/2 Yellow Bell Pepper, Diced (Optional):

  - Calories: 12 kcal

  - Fat: 0 g

  - Carbohydrates: 3 g

  - Protein: 0.5 g

Benefits: Rich in vitamins A and C, and antioxidants. Supports immune function, eye health, and adds sweetness and color.

1/2 Bunch Cilantro (Coriander), Chopped:

  - Calories: 1 kcal (per tablespoon)

  - Fat: 0 g

  - Carbohydrates: 0.1 g

  - Protein: 0.1 g

Benefits: Rich in antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and may aid in digestion and detoxification. Adds fresh flavor and a burst of green color.

Salt and Pepper to Taste:

  - Calories: Negligible

  - Fat: 0 g

  - Carbohydrates: 0 g

  - Protein: 0 g

Benefits: Enhances flavor and seasoning. Use in moderation to manage sodium intake.

Chili Pepper or Hot Sauce (Optional, for Added Heat):

Chili Pepper:

   - Calories: 18 kcal (for 1-2 peppers)

   - Fat: 0.2 g

   - Carbohydrates: 4 g

   - Protein: 0.6 g

Benefits: Contains capsaicin, which can help boost metabolism and reduce inflammation.

Hot Sauce:

   - Calories: 5 kcal (per tablespoon, varies by brand)

   - Fat: 0 g

   - Carbohydrates: 1 g

   - Protein: 0 g

Benefits: Adds flavor and heat. Contains capsaicin which may offer metabolism-boosting benefits.

Lime Wedges and Fresh Cilantro Leaves for Garnish:

Lime Wedges:

   - Calories: 3 kcal (per wedge)

   - Fat: 0 g

   - Carbohydrates: 1 g

   - Protein: 0 g

Benefits: Enhances flavor with a burst of citrus and vitamin C.

Fresh Cilantro Leaves:

   - Calories: 1 kcal (per tablespoon)

   - Fat: 0 g

   - Carbohydrates: 0.1 g

   - Protein: 0.1 g

Benefits: Adds fresh flavor and may aid in digestion and detoxification.

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as specific brands of ingredients used and serving sizes.