Preserved Tradition: Exploring the Delicacy of Greenland Kiviak

Kiviak is a Greenlandic dish made by fermenting whole auks inside a seal skin. The birds are packed with salt and left to ferment for several months, creating a distinct flavor. Traditionally served during special occasions, it reflects Greenland's resourceful food preservation methods.

Kiviak has been part of Greenlandic culture for centuries. Developed by the Inuit to preserve food during harsh winters, it became a revered delicacy and an important cultural tradition.

Ingredients:

- 300-500 whole auks (e.g., little auks or dovekies)  

- 1 large seal skin, cleaned and prepared  

- Salt  

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Seal Skin: 

- Thoroughly clean the seal skin, removing all flesh and hair.  

- Generously salt the inside and outside of the skin to aid preservation.  

2. Stuff the Seal Skin: 

- Carefully open the seal skin, ensuring it remains intact.  

- Add a layer of salt at the base.  

- Pack the whole auks tightly inside, leaving minimal air pockets.  

- Add a top layer of salt before sealing.  

3. Seal and Ferment:

- Sew or tie the seal skin tightly to prevent air entry.  

- Place it in a cool, dark area, traditionally buried under rocks or soil.  

- Allow it to ferment for 3-18 months.  

4. Check and Serve: 

- Periodically check for spoilage signs (foul odors, mold). Discard if spoiled.  

- Once fermented, remove the auks and serve raw.  

Serving:  

Kiviak is best enjoyed during festive occasions, often as part of a communal meal.  

Nutrition Value:

1. 300-500 whole auks (e.g., little auks or dovekies)

- Calories: 200-300 kcal per 100 grams  

- Carbohydrates: Negligible  

- Protein: 20-30 grams per 100 grams  

- Fat: 10-15 grams per 100 grams  

- Sodium: Naturally low, but increased by salting  

- Cholesterol: 50-60 mg per 100 grams  

- Vitamins: Rich in B vitamins, particularly B12  

- Minerals: Contains iron (supports oxygen transport) and zinc (boosts immune function)  

- Nutritional benefit: High-quality protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals that support muscle growth, heart health, and overall vitality  

2. 1 large seal skin, cleaned and prepared

- Calories: 300-400 kcal per 100 grams  

- Carbohydrates: Negligible  

- Protein: 20-30 grams per 100 grams  

- Fat: 25-35 grams per 100 grams  

- Sodium: High due to preservation  

- Cholesterol: 60-70 mg per 100 grams  

- Vitamins: Contains vitamin A (supports skin, vision, and immune health)  

- Minerals: Provides potassium and magnesium (important for muscle function and electrolyte balance)  

- Nutritional benefit: High in fats and protein, providing concentrated energy and aiding in the preservation of the auks  

3. Salt

- Calories: None  

- Carbohydrates: None  

- Protein: None  

- Fat: None  

- Sodium: Composed of sodium chloride, contributing to the dish's sodium content  

- Cholesterol: None  

- Vitamins: None  

- Minerals: Provides sodium, essential for fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contraction  

- Nutritional benefit: Essential for flavor and preservation, but should be used in moderation due to its high sodium content