Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Kinilaw – Fresh, Zesty, and Authentically Filipino


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Diva
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Low Calorie

Description

Kinilaw is a traditional Filipino dish made with fresh raw fish cured in vinegar and citrus, mixed with onions, ginger, and chili for a bright, tangy, and refreshing flavor.


Ingredients

  • 1 lb fresh tuna or mackerel, skinless and cubed
  • 1/2 cup coconut vinegar or cane vinegar
  • 1/4 cup calamansi juice or fresh lime juice
  • 1 small red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 thumb-size ginger, julienned
  • 12 red chili peppers, sliced
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1/4 cup coconut milk (optional)


Instructions

  1. Rinse fish briefly in cold water and drain well.
  2. Place fish in a bowl and pour vinegar over it.
  3. Let sit for 5 minutes, then drain the vinegar.
  4. Add calamansi or lime juice to the fish.
  5. Mix in onion, ginger, chili, salt, and black pepper.
  6. If using, stir in coconut milk gently.
  7. Cover and refrigerate for 10–15 minutes before serving.
  8. Serve chilled.

Notes

  • Use sashimi-grade fresh fish only.
  • Do not over-marinate as fish can become tough.
  • Traditionally served as an appetizer with rice or drinks.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: Filipino