As previously mentioned Muktuk can either be eaten raw or if you choose cooked. We did the only right thing - we tried both ways and tonight was the night. As soon as we got home the Muktuk was taken out of the freezer and allowed to thaw. I think the dogs knew there was something coming their way because their interest was definitely peeked. They were at the ready.
Larry cut off the first sliver, well really he just picked up a piece and starting in on it as if he had just picked up a rib and starting nawing on the meat. His reaction was neutral until I tasted my piece. I took a bite and immediately made for the sink for a quick discharge. Muktuk and me just don't agree. I couldn't get past the texture, it was like biting into butter, although the taste was not butter. I would say, at this point, it is non-descriptive - I couldn't put my finger on it. So, I asked Larry and he said it tasted salty, and "disgusting." We're really not doing Inuit tradition any favours. That was muktuk raw. Now onto it being cooked.
We put some into the frying pan and added some butter, and garlic to taste. We cooked it well and did the taste test. Muktuk is much better cooked than raw, however it's still suspect. It wouldn't be right to try the muktuk and not get the dogs reaction.
Girls in the house had similar reactions. Holly licked it but wouldn't eat it. Quinn on the otherhand, lapped it up like it was chicken. Then again, Larry thought it wasn't that bad cooked either.
Don't worry friends, we will be bringing some for all to try. Don't let our opinion spoil this opportunity of a life time. We've decided we will try it again but we must be in an environment that will motivate the taste buds. Admittedly we're not sure we are exeriencing it the way Inuit would and we will wait for Iqaluit's Toonik Time festival in April to experience true Inuit cuisine.
Muktuk score: Guys 1, Girls 0
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