Keto Inuit foods

The Inuit, traditionally known as the Eskimo, have lived for thousands of years in the Arctic regions of Canada, Greenland, and Alaska. Their diet has been mostly ketogenic due to the lack of vegetation and the extreme cold, focusing on high fat and protein sources from marine and terrestrial animals. Here's an exploration of traditional Inuit foods that are inherently keto:

Piece of meat from young Harp Seal (Phoca groenlandica) bought in Upernavik, Greenland. The meat can be used to make traditional seal soup

Traditional Inuit Keto Foods

Seal & Whale Blubber

• Description: Blubber is a thick layer of vascularized adipose tissue found under the skin of all cetaceans, pinnipeds, and sirenians. It is a primary food source and also used for heating and lighting.
• Keto Benefits: High in omega-3 fatty acids and essential nutrients.

Fish

• Description: Various fish, including Arctic char, salmon, and lake trout, are staples in the Inuit diet.
• Keto Benefits: Rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids.

Caribou Meat

Caribou meat close up

• Description: Caribou, a type of North American reindeer, is a significant source of nutrition.
• Keto Benefits: Lean source of protein and essential minerals.

Birds and Eggs

• Description: The Inuit consume various birds like ptarmigan, seagulls, and their eggs.
• Keto Benefits: Packed with protein, vitamins, and healthy fats.

Muktuk (Whale Skin and Blubber)

• Description: Consumed raw or fermented, it's a delicacy among the Inuit.
• Keto Benefits: High in vitamin C and omega-3 fatty acids.

Bone Broth

• Description: Soups and broths made from the bones of marine or terrestrial animals.
• Keto Benefits: Rich in minerals and nutrients extracted from the bones.

Fermented Foods

Beluga blubber

• Description: Kiviak (fermented bird in a seal skin) and igunaq (fermented meat) are traditional Inuit fermented foods.
• Keto Benefits: Probiotic properties with high fat and protein.

Sample Keto Inuit Recipe: Seal Stew

Ingredients:

• Chunks of seal meat
• Salt to taste
• Water

Instructions:

• Place chunks of seal meat in a pot.
• Cover the meat with water and add salt.
• Simmer until the meat is tender and fully cooked.
• Serve hot.

Comments: This simple stew reflects the traditional cooking methods, focusing on the natural flavors of the ingredients. It can be complemented with side dishes such as boiled fish or blubber.

Whale blubber, seal oil, dried fish, and sea moss might seem exotic to many, but these are staples in traditional Arctic diets. Here's a recipe that combines these ingredients, honoring the traditional Inuit culinary practices while ensuring delicious flavors.

Whale Blubber and Dried Fish Salad with Seal Oil Dressing & Sea Moss

Ingredients:

Inuit food - bowl of whale blubber, with a side of seal oil, dried fish, and sea moss

Whale Blubber:

200 grams of fresh whale blubber, thinly sliced Dried Fish:

100 grams of dried fish, flaked Seal Oil Dressing:

3 tablespoons of fresh seal oil 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar Salt and pepper to taste Sea Moss:

50 grams of dried sea moss Water for soaking Garnish (optional):

Fresh dill or green onions, finely chopped Lemon zest Instructions:

Preparation of Sea Moss:

Soak the dried sea moss in water for at least 4 hours or overnight. Once it's softened, rinse thoroughly to remove any sand or salt. In a pot, boil the sea moss for 20-25 minutes until it becomes jelly-like. Drain the water and let it cool. Once cooled, chop it into bite-sized pieces. Seal Oil Dressing:

In a small bowl, whisk together the seal oil, lemon juice or vinegar, salt, and pepper until emulsified. Set aside. Assembly:

In a large bowl, gently toss together the thinly sliced whale blubber, flaked dried fish, and prepared sea moss. Drizzle the seal oil dressing over the mixture and toss gently to coat everything evenly. Plate the salad and garnish with fresh dill or green onions and a hint of lemon zest. Serving Suggestions:

This dish is rich in flavors and textures, so it's best enjoyed as a cold appetizer or side dish. It pairs wonderfully with a cold glass of sparkling water or white wine to balance the rich taste. Notes:

Whale blubber, seal oil, and other marine ingredients have a distinct flavor profile, which might be an acquired taste for many. They are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and other essential nutrients. If you're trying this for the first time, approach it with an open mind and appreciation for traditional Arctic culinary practices.

The Inuit diet underscores the human body's adaptability to various food sources based on geographical and environmental contexts. While the traditional Inuit diet is inherently ketogenic, it is essential to note that it has been shaped by necessity and survival, rather than the contemporary pursuit of health or weight loss benefits.