TIMES MALAYSIA, JAKARTA – Are you a spicy food lover? If you are, you should try the authentic dishes from North Sulawesi, which are mostly spicy. One of the most iconic dishes from North Sulawesi is Cakalang Fufu, which got its name from the word ‘fufu’ that means ‘smoked fish’. 

 The cakalang (skipjack tuna) is cleaned first, then it is split into two parts and clipped upon a bamboo frame. Next, the fish meat is marinated using soda powder and salt. Later, the meat enters the smoking process for four hours and undergoes the cooling process for around two hours.

Sambal dabu-dabu. (PHOTO: istock)

The process makes the fish meat turn reddish and dry. 

Cakalang fufu can be served with warm rice and sambal dabu-dabu (traditional sambal from Manado). 

Cakalang Fufu can remain in the temperature room for one month. That’s why this dish may be a perfect gift for your loved ones.

Cakalang Fufu is one of the most popular dishes in North Sulawesi that you have to try. (*)