My dear reader, I have a recipe for baked whale that I urge you to try. I know some of you may have reservations about cooking whales, but let me assure you, this baked whale recipe has been passed down through generations of Icelandic cooking traditions and is legal under Icelandic law.

I understand that whales are a majestic creature and a symbol of nature’s bounty, but they are also an important part of Icelandic food culture, just like salmon bakes or smoked whale. The meat is tender, with a flavor similar to beef, and can be cooked in many ways.

Now, some of you may ask: why cook whale at all? Isn’t it unethical? But let me ask you this – have you ever stopped to consider the impact of your food choices on the environment? Many animals we currently farm or fish are unsustainable for our planet. In contrast, Iceland has a quota system to ensure sustainable whale hunting. Eating whale meat is no different than eating beef, chicken, or pork. If we want to support ethical and sustainable food production, shouldn’t we embrace local Icelandic cuisine instead of importing unsustainable options?

So what are you waiting for? Let us embrace the best food Iceland has to offer – including this delicious baked whale recipe.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Allow me to make a bold statement: it is time to redefine the way we think about food. It is time to explore and celebrate different cultures and cuisines, without prejudice or fear. That being said, I must admit that I have a particular fondness for a dish that has been unfairly stigmatized for way too long. A dish that barely gets any recognition, despite being an important part of some communities’ culinary traditions: baked whale.

Yes, you read that correctly. Baked whale. Before you close this article in disgust or start typing angry comments, hear me out. Whale meat is a valuable source of protein and nutrients for many people around the world. In Iceland, for instance, where whale watching is a popular tourist activity, baked whale has been enjoyed for centuries as a hearty winter meal. It is true that commercial whaling has caused devastating damage to whale populations in the past, but this recipe uses Icelandic minke whale, which is harvested sustainably and legally.

But enough about politics and ethics. Let’s talk about flavor. This baked whale recipe is savory, tender, and deliciously unique. The marinade of oil, vinegar, peppercorns, salt, garlic, and onion infuses the meat with bold flavors that complement the rich taste of the whale meat perfectly. Whether you slice it into cubes or slices, the result is the same: a mouthwatering main dish that will surprise and impress even the most seasoned foodies.

Not convinced yet? Let me tell you about some variations and pairings that will take your baked whale game to the next level. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding red wine to the marinade for a deeper flavor profile. Or substitute some of the vinegar with lemon juice for a fresher taste. As for pairings, baked whale goes well with boiled potatoes and brown sauce (a traditional Icelandic accompaniment), but also with roasted vegetables or a simple salad.

In conclusion, I invite you to give this recipe a chance. Do not let preconceptions or stereotypes cloud your judgment. Open your mind (and your palate) to new experiences and discover the deliciousness of baked whale. Who knows? This may become your new favorite dish.

Ingredient List

Here’s What You Need:

2 lbs whale meat, cut into cubes or slices
1 cup red wine
1 cup oil
1 garlic clove, finely chopped
1 onion, finely chopped
1 tbsp whole peppercorn
1 tbsp salt

For the marinade, mix:

4 cups oil
1 cup red wine
1 tbsp vinegar
1 tbsp whole peppercorns
1 tbsp salt
1 clove of garlic, minced
1 onion, diced

NOTE: Whale meat is not commonly available but can still be found in some specialty food stores or online. In this recipe, we’re using whale meat from Iceland. Make sure to check local and national regulations about the legality of buying, selling or importing whale meat in your location.

The Recipe How-To

Now that we have our ingredients and marinade prepared, it’s time to start making the baked whale.

Steps:

Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
Take the whale meat out of the marinade and place it in a baking dish.
Bake the meat for 1.5 – 2 hours, depending on how well-done you like your meat.
While the meat is baking, pour the remaining marinade into a small saucepan and add 1 cup of red wine. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce heat to low and simmer for about 10 minutes until it thickens into a sauce.
Once the meat is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Serve with boiled potatoes and brown sauce, or your preferred side dish.
Enjoy your delicious baked whale!

If you prefer your food more well-done, you can bake the whale for an additional 15-20 minutes. Remember to use a thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature reaches at least 145°F (63°C) to be safe to eat.

Pro-tip: To get an even distribution of flavor throughout each cube or slice of whale meat, try using a whisk to mix up the marinade before pouring over the cubes or slices.

And there you have it, a mouth-watering baked whale recipe that is sure to impress your friends and family!

Substitutions and Variations

When it comes to substitutions and variations for the baked whale recipe, there are a few things you can experiment with. Firstly, if whale meat is not easily accessible, you can substitute it with other forms of fish such as cod or salmon. However, keep in mind that the texture and flavor of the dish may vary.

In terms of the marinade, you can play around with different flavors by substituting red wine with white wine or apple cider vinegar. You can also add herbs such as thyme or rosemary to complement the flavor of the whale meat.

For those who prefer a spicier taste, add chili flakes or paprika to the marinade to give it some heat. If you’re not a big fan of onions or garlic, you can omit them altogether without drastically affecting the overall taste.

For those who prefer a more low-fat version of this recipe, use vegetable oil instead of olive oil and reduce the salt content in the marinade. Additionally, instead of using potatoes in the brown sauce, try using carrots or parsnips to create a different flavor profile.

Another variation to consider is serving baked whale as part of a platter with cheese and crackers for a savory snack option. Replace cheddar cheese with other cheeses like blue cheese, feta or brie.

Lastly, if you’re against cooking whale for ethical reasons, consider substituting it with tofu as a vegetarian option. Although this may significantly alter the taste and texture of the dish, it could be an interesting experiment for those curious about new flavors.

Play around with different substitutions and variations until you find your perfect baked whale recipe!

Serving and Pairing

When it comes to serving and pairing baked whale, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, remember that this is a unique and flavorful dish that calls for some creative pairings. Secondly, keep in mind the texture of the meat – it’s rich, hearty, and perfect for cold winter days.

One classic way to serve baked whale is with boiled potatoes and a rich brown sauce. The potatoes offer a neutral base to contrast with the bold flavors of the meat, while the sauce provides a tangy and savory note that complements the sweetness of the meat.

If you’re looking for something a little lighter but still hearty, try pairing baked whale with roasted vegetables such as carrots or beets. The sweetness of these veggies pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of the meat.

For a more adventurous pairing, consider serving baked whale with smoked salmon or other seafood dishes. The flavors of the sea work well with the umami taste of baked whale meat.

Of course, no meal is complete without a good beverage pairing. For baked whale, consider opting for earthy and robust red wines such as Merlot or Pinot Noir. If wine isn’t your thing, try serving it alongside an ice-cold beer to provide a refreshing balance to the warmth of the dish.

Remember, when it comes to serving and pairing baked whale, creativity is key! Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your own perfect combination.

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

As much as I love freshly baked whale, sometimes it’s just not possible to eat it all at once! Luckily for you, this recipe is great for making ahead of time and storing for later. There are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to storing and reheating though.

If you want to make this dish ahead of time, follow the recipe as normal up until the baking step. Instead, cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the fridge. The marinade will continue to work its magic in the fridge while you wait.

When you’re ready to bake your whale, preheat your oven as directed and remove the plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Depending on how long your whale has been in the fridge, you may need to add a bit of extra time to fully cook it.

If you have leftovers after your meal, let your whale cool down completely before storing it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to reheat it, simply pop it back into the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Now that you know how easy it is to make ahead and store this dish, why not whip up a big batch next time you go on a whale watching trip? You’ll be able to enjoy your delicious baked whale all week long!

Tips for Perfect Results

When it comes to cooking whale meat, there are few things you should keep in mind to ensure that you get perfect results. Here are some tips I’ve learned over the years that will help you get the most out of your baked whale recipe:

Firstly, always marinate the whale cubes or slices for 2-3 hours. This allows the meat to absorb all the flavors of the marinade, which makes it more tender and flavorful.

Secondly, make sure to use a small baking dish that fits the whale meat cubes or slices perfectly; this helps prevent drying out during cooking. If you place them in a dish that’s too big, the juices will evaporate more quickly and leave you with dry, tough meat.

Additionally, using high-quality ingredients is key to unlocking maximum flavor. Use fresh garlic cloves, peppercorns, red wine and onion when making your marinade to ensure best result.

It’s also important to monitor your cooking time carefully as overcooking can lead to tough and chewy meat. The best way to check if your baked whale is cooked thoroughly is by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the meat. When it reads at least 145°F (63°C), then it’s cooked perfectly!

Finally, serving and pairing can make or break your meal experience. I recommend serving this baked whale recipe with boiled potatoes smothered in brown sauce accompanied with salad greens or stir-fried vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

By following these simple tips, you’ll be able to create succulent baked whale dish that packs both flavor and tenderness— a unique taste that everyone must indulge in at least once while on Iceland whale watching adventures!

FAQ

Now that you know everything about baking whale, it is now time to address some Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ). You might have some questions or concerns about the recipe, the ingredients, or even the cooking process. Here are some answers to help you get started.

What is the best way to eat whale?

Whale sashimi is a highly favored dish that features different cuts of the meat. Among these, the onomi cut is highly prized due to its 1 cm thick slices that display a delicate texture created by marbled fat. The texture is often described as similar to that of tuna, and like most sashimi, it is typically served with soy sauce and wasabi. This dish is beloved by many and continues to be a popular choice for those looking for a unique dining experience.

How do you cook whale?

First off, let’s whip up the marinade by combining oil, vinegar, a sprinkle of peppercorns, a pinch of salt, minced garlic and chopped onions. This will create a savory and aromatic base that’ll elevate the flavor of our protein.

Next, prepare your whale meat by slicing it into cubed portions or thin slices depending on your preference. Then, let it soak in the marinade for a good 2-3 hours so that it can fully absorb all of the goodness.

When the marinating is done, cover up the meat and pop it into the oven set at a modest 300 degrees Fahrenheit. Let it cook for about an hour, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully and for the meat to turn into juicy, moist and tender bites.

After an hour of slow roasting, your whale meat should be ready to plate and serve. The resulting dish is sure to be bursting with rich flavors and will develop into an unforgettable experience for your taste buds.

Why is whale meat toxic?

Did you know that killer whales, which are notorious for devouring sperm whales that are twice their size in the Caribbean, have the highest mercury levels among all marine mammals? It is concerning because consuming marine products that are high in mercury can lead to serious respiratory and digestive problems in humans. This is some food for thought when it comes to what we put on our plates.

Is whale meat legal in the US?

Purchasing or selling meat or muktuk from bowhead or Cook Inlet beluga whales is prohibited, even for Alaska Natives. This law remains in effect.

Bottom Line

After trying this baked whale recipe for yourself, you will see why it is a must-try dish. Not only is it an Icelandic tradition, but it is also a unique and flavorful dish that will make your taste buds sing. With the perfect combination of oil, vinegar, peppercorns, salt, garlic, and onions, this recipe will give you the ultimate baking experience.

And for those who have concerns regarding the ethics and sustainability of whale hunting, it is essential to note that preparing whale meat correctly can be challenging. However, when done correctly with legal and ethical considerations, it can still serve as a sustainable food source for locals.

Moreover, when trying out this recipe, be sure to pair it with boiled potatoes and brown sauce for a complete meal. The whales baked snack crackers with cheddar cheese are also a great accompaniment to this delicious Baked Whale Recipe.

In conclusion, whether for the unique flavor or to experience Iceland’s traditional foods, try out this recipe for yourself. Who knows? It might become your new favorite dish!

Baked Whale Recipe

This recipe comes from a Tongan cookbook I possess. I am in no way condoning commercial fishing of whale or even the 'scientific' fishing of whale popularised by some countries. However if for some reason you come across a dead whale that has died by more natural or unintentional means...here is what you do with it.

5 from 1 vote

Print Pin

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Icelandic

Keyword: Free Of..., Low Cholesterol, Low Protein, Oven, Polynesian, Very Low Carbs, Weeknight

Prep Time: 4 hours

Cook Time: 1 hour

Calories: 95.6kcal

Ingredients

Instructions

Combine the oil, vinegar, peppercorns, salt, garlic and onion.
Cut the whale into cubes or slices.
Marinate in the marinade for 2-3 hours.
Cover and place in a 300 deg F oven for 1 hour.

Your own notes

Click here to add your own private notes.

Nutrition

Recommended Recipes Just For You

Tony

Tony is an experienced chef, crafting delicious comfort food. He’s also an influential blogger, providing helpful recipes and tips on his website, taosburgersandbeer.com. As an expert in his field, he offers valuable advice to readers. His knowledge and creative recipes make it easy to cook exciting, flavorful dishes.