Ugacuaq (seal Flipper Pie)

Ugacuaq, or Seal Flipper Pie, is a traditional dish from Yup'ik Cuisine that is rich in flavor and cultural significance. This hearty pie is a celebration of the bounty of the sea and the culinary traditions of the Yup'ik people.

Ugacuaq (seal Flipper Pie)

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs seal flippers, cleaned and skinned
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 3 potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 cup carrots, sliced
  • 1 cup celery, chopped
  • 2 cups chicken or beef broth
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Pastry dough for 2 pie crusts

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Place the seal flippers in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour, or until tender.
  3. Remove the seal flippers from the pot, let them cool, and then remove the meat from the bones. Discard the bones and chop the meat into small pieces.
  4. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, potatoes, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
  5. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir to combine. Cook for 2-3 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
  6. Gradually add the chicken or beef broth, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens into a gravy-like consistency.
  7. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then add the chopped seal meat to the skillet and stir to combine.
  8. Line a pie dish with one of the pastry crusts. Pour the seal meat and vegetable mixture into the pie crust.
  9. Cover the pie with the second pastry crust, crimp the edges to seal, and make a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
  10. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
  11. Let the pie cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
20 minutes
Cooking time:
2 hours
Total time:
2 hours
Cooking method
Oven

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
350 per serving
Protein
25g
Fat
20g
Carbohydrates
15g

Supplies

Large pot Skillet Pie dish

Tools

Knife Cutting board Measuring cups and spoons

Serving suggestions

Serve the Ugacuaq with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad.

Tips & tricks

For a flakier crust, brush the top of the pie with an egg wash before baking.

Cost

$30