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Keto Appetizers

Traditional Cured Fish (Umai)

Umai, a traditional cured fish dish from the Pacific Islands, brings bright, bold flavors to your keto table. With just fresh snapper and zesty lime, it’s a no-cook appetizer that always impresses. I love how the citrus gently 'cooks' the fish, creating a light and refreshing starter that’s perfect for warm evenings.

15 min Prep time 25 min Cook time 40 min Total time 4 Servings 180 Calories
Traditional Cured Fish (Umai)

Ingredients

  • yellow onion, chopped
  • red onion, chopped
  • tbsp minced ginger
  • red chile, finely chopped
  • tbsp lime zest
  • juice of 2 limes
  • red snapper fillets, thinly sliced
  • salt to taste

Instructions

  1. Step 1

    Umai is a Pacific Island dish where citrus cures the fish, making it a perfect no-cook keto appetizer. I start by finely chopping both the yellow and red onions, along with the fresh chile pepper and ginger. In a glass or ceramic bowl, I combine them with the lime zest and juice. Then, I slice the skinned red snapper fillets into thin strips—about ¼ inch thick works best. Gently fold the fish into the citrusy mixture, making sure each piece is well coated. Season with a pinch of salt, cover the bowl, and refrigerate for about 15 minutes, or until the fish turns white and opaque. The acid from the limes effectively 'cooks' the fish, transforming its texture. Once it's ready, give it a gentle stir and taste for salt. Serve it cold, straight from the fridge, as a refreshing appetizer. I sometimes garnish with extra chile slices for a touch of heat.

Chef's Tip

For the best texture, slice the snapper against the grain and ensure it's very fresh. I always taste the citrus marinade before adding the fish to adjust the salt and chile, as every lime varies in acidity.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one day. I recommend consuming it fresh, as the citrus will keep breaking down the fish, making it overly firm.

Variation Tips

Try substituting the snapper with fresh salmon or tuna for a buttery variation. I sometimes add diced avocado right before serving, which boosts the healthy fats. A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or a drizzle of coconut aminos can also deepen the savory notes.

Frequently Asked Questions