muktuk

Muktuk is a traditional food commonly consumed by Inuit, Yupik, and other Arctic indigenous peoples. It primarily consists of whale skin and blubber, often including small (frozen) pieces of the whale's meat. The composition of muktuk can vary, but it typically involves the thick layer of skin and the underlying blubber from a bowhead, gray, or beluga whale.

The preparation of muktuk often involves cutting the frozen whale parts into small chunks or slices, which are then eaten raw or sometimes cooked or pickled. Raw muktuk is traditionally served as a chilled snack or appetizer, appreciated for its chewy texture and unique flavor profile. The high fat content provides a rich source of calories, vital for survival in Arctic environments.

Muktuk is an important culturally significant food among Arctic indigenous communities. It plays a role in traditional subsistence living and social practices associated with hunting and sharing whale meat. Nutritionally, it is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins A and D, and other nutrients essential for health.

In recent years, muktuk has gained recognition outside its traditional context, often featured in cultural exhibitions, culinary events, and discussions of Arctic indigenous traditions. Due to cultural sensitivities and sustainability concerns, the harvesting and consumption of whale products like muktuk are regulated under international agreements and local laws.

Overall, muktuk embodies the dietary traditions and cultural heritage of Arctic indigenous peoples and remains a symbol of their enduring relationship with the natural environment.