Pineapple-Fish Balls

Pineapple-Fish Balls Recipe from Fiji - Unripe Pawpaw, Chinese Cabbage, Soy Sauce, and More

Region / culture: Fiji | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Pineapple-Fish Balls is a delicious and unique dish that combines the sweetness of pineapple with the savory flavors of fish and vegetables. This recipe is sure to impress your family and friends with its vibrant colors and bold flavors.

History

The origins of Pineapple-Fish Balls can be traced back to traditional Pacific Island cuisine, where fresh seafood and tropical fruits are abundant. This dish is a popular choice for special occasions and celebrations, as it is both flavorful and visually appealing.

Ingredients

1 small unripe pawpaw
0.5 tsp salt
1 head chinese cabbage
1 tsp soy sauce
750 g (1.5 lb) fish
1 cup water
4 tbsp cooking oil (or margarine or butter)
1 dessert spoon cornflour
1 cup pineapple pieces
salt to taste
1 small onion, chopped
0.5 inch ginger, chopped or crushed
0.5 tsp sugar

How to prepare

Peel the pawpaw, remove the seeds, and cut it lengthwise.
Wash the cabbage, separate the stalk from the leaves, and chop them lengthwise.
Using a spoon or a shell, scrape the flesh of the fish away from the bones and skin.
Form the fish into small balls.
Heat the oil and gently fry the fish balls until they are cooked.
Remove the fish balls from the pan.
Fry the slices of pineapple and pawpaw.
Add the onion, ginger, cabbage stalks, and leaves.
Fry until the vegetables are just under-cooked.
Mix together the sugar, soy sauce, water, and cornflour.
Add the mixture to the vegetables and stir continuously until it boils.
Add the fish balls and stir.
Serve hot with cooked taro, breadfruit, or rice.

Variations

Substitute the fish with shrimp or chicken for a different flavor profile.
Add diced bell peppers or carrots for extra color and texture.
Experiment with different seasonings, such as curry powder or chili flakes, for a spicy kick.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use unripe pawpaw for this recipe, as it will hold its shape better when cooked.

- Make sure to fry the fish balls gently to avoid overcooking and drying them out.

- Adjust the seasoning to your taste, adding more salt or sugar as needed.

- Serve the dish hot with your choice of side dishes, such as cooked taro, breadfruit, or rice.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Pineapple-Fish Balls hot with cooked taro, breadfruit, or rice for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Gently fry the fish balls to ensure they are cooked through but still tender.

- Stir continuously when adding the cornflour mixture to prevent lumps from forming.

- Adjust the cooking time for the vegetables to achieve your desired level of doneness.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use canned pineapple chunks if fresh pineapple is not available.

- Substitute Chinese cabbage with bok choy or spinach.

- Use any firm white fish, such as cod or tilapia, for the fish balls.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the fish balls and chop the vegetables ahead of time to save time on the day of cooking. Store them in separate containers in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Pineapple-Fish Balls in a large serving bowl garnished with fresh cilantro or green onions for a pop of color. Pair with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Pineapple-Fish Balls with a crisp white wine or a tropical fruit cocktail for a refreshing and complementary beverage.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Pineapple-Fish Balls contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Pineapple-Fish Balls contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Pineapple-Fish Balls contains approximately 12 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Pineapple-Fish Balls contains approximately 20 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Pineapple-Fish Balls are rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains fish and soy sauce, which may be allergens for some individuals. Please be mindful of any food allergies when preparing this dish.

Summary

Pineapple-Fish Balls are a nutritious and well-balanced meal, providing a good source of protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Pineapple-Fish Balls are a delightful and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of pineapple with the savory goodness of fish and vegetables. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or weeknight dinners, and is sure to become a new family favorite. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by its flavors. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Maria's grandmother in her quaint little cottage by the sea. As soon as I walked in, I was greeted by the heavenly aroma of pineapple and fish cooking together.

Maria's grandmother, Mama Rosa, was a skilled cook who had learned her craft from her own grandmother in the old country. She had a treasure trove of recipes that had been passed down through generations, and she was always willing to share them with anyone who showed an interest.

On this particular day, Mama Rosa was making Pineapple-Fish Balls, a dish that was a specialty in her family. She explained to me that the recipe had been passed down from her great-grandmother, who had learned it from a traveling merchant who had visited their village many years ago.

As Mama Rosa moved around her kitchen, deftly chopping and mixing ingredients, she regaled me with stories of her ancestors and the adventures they had experienced. She spoke of the hardships they had faced, the triumphs they had celebrated, and the recipes they had cherished.

I watched in awe as Mama Rosa transformed simple ingredients like fish, pineapple, breadcrumbs, and spices into delicate balls that sizzled and browned in the hot oil. The sweet and tangy aroma filled the kitchen, and my mouth watered in anticipation of tasting the finished dish.

Finally, the Pineapple-Fish Balls were ready, and Mama Rosa plated them with a side of steamed rice and a drizzle of homemade sweet and sour sauce. The first bite was a revelation – the tender fish, the juicy pineapple, the crispy coating – it was a symphony of flavors that danced on my taste buds.

I begged Mama Rosa to teach me how to make the dish, and she smiled indulgently as she handed me a pen and a notebook. She dictated the recipe to me, explaining each step in detail and offering tips and tricks that had been passed down through the generations.

Over the years, I practiced making Pineapple-Fish Balls, refining the recipe and adding my own touches to make it my own. I shared it with friends and family, who all raved about the unique combination of flavors and textures.

Now, whenever I make Pineapple-Fish Balls, I think of Mama Rosa and her stories of the past. I remember the warmth of her kitchen, the laughter of her family, and the love that went into each batch of those delicious little balls.

And as I serve them to my own grandchildren, I pass on the recipe and the stories that go with it, ensuring that the tradition lives on for generations to come. The Pineapple-Fish Balls are more than just a dish – they are a connection to my past, a link to my heritage, and a reminder of the love and care that went into creating them.