When thinking of a dessert that represents Alaska, we all tend to think of the obvious. That dessert, of course, has almost nothing to do with the state it was originally made for. Quite an American thing to do, if I don't say so myself. So in looking at Alaska and those native to the state itself, we can see a more accurate representation it its unique cuisine. Have you ever heard of Akutaq before?
Hello everyone! I'm back again, though it's unfortunately not for long. I've had my fair share of traveling this year, both foreseen and not. It's rather unlike me, but a welcomed change nonetheless. That being said, I'll be departing again early next month, so it will likely be a while until I'll have another post out. But without further ado, here's Alaska!
I felt as though I couldn't address this unique and cherished Alaskan dessert without acknowledging the elephant in the room. That, and I'm also trying to justify my use of the *beep* post style editing. Having grown up with the dawn of the internet, even I fall prey to the need to meme now and again. But I was genuinely fascinated to discover the history and composition of akutaq! Similar to the only other contiguous state in this country, aka Hawaii, this was a dessert that I had never heard of prior to starting this series. It is also unique in its authentic ingredients. As much as I would have loved to make traditional akutaq, unfortunately, things such as seal oil, moose fat, and even salmon berries are not easily accessible in my area. And I'm not being factious in typing that, I genuinely would love to try it! But from my research, plenty of native Alaskans partake in recreating the modern, more accessible form of this frozen delight. And I believe everyone at home should do so as well!
Modern Akutaq
Makes approx. 8 servings
Ingredients
1 cup solid vegetable shortening
1 cup sugar, granulated
1/2 cup water or berry juice
4 cups mixed berries, fresh or frozen
Instructions:
In a large pot over low heat, add the shortening and sugar. Heat and stir just until it melts. Remove from heat and transfer to a large mixing bowl
While stirring the melted shortening and sugar, add half the water or berry juice and stir vigorously. The mixture should gradually lighten in color and become more paste-like. After mixing for 2-3 minutes, add the rest of the water or berry juice and continue mixing.
At some point, you may want to don some food safety gloves and continue mixing and whipping the akutaq by hand. Do this until the mixture is very light in color and fluffy.
Fold in the fresh or frozen berries by hand and transfer to another container to freeze for 5 hours, or overnight until the mixture is better solidified.
Remove from freezer, scoop, top with fresh berries, serve, and enjoy!
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