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.
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
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- 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.
- 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.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, potatoes, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
- Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir to combine. Cook for 2-3 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Gradually add the chicken or beef broth, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens into a gravy-like consistency.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, then add the chopped seal meat to the skillet and stir to combine.
- Line a pie dish with one of the pastry crusts. Pour the seal meat and vegetable mixture into the pie crust.
- 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.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
- 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