Wondering what other things to cook with tuna fish? How about trying out Tuna in Paksiw mode! This time, you can also make it extra savory and special with Gata. Experience two traditional Filipino cooking styles, Paksiw and Ginataan all rolled into one with this recipe on Tuna Head Paksiw sa Gata!

Background 

Paksiw is a traditional cooking method through simmering with garlic and vinegar. This type of technique is not new in the food culture of the Filipinos. Numerous varieties of Paksiw, with different base ingredients such as lechon and bangus, are still being cooked and served by many because of its simplicity and savory flavor.

Being one of the primary ingredients in Philippine cuisine, Gata or coconut milk adds an essential consistency when cooking Paksiw. It does not only elevate the flavor, but also increases the health benefits of the dish because of its natural and organic versatility when it comes to traditional cooking.

How long does it take to cook Paksiw?

It takes for about 30-45 minutes on the pot to cook Paksiw for it should be given time to let the fish boil with the fresh ingredients and spices in creating a natural broth. This broth texture in the Paksiw makes it different from the usual Philippine stews.

What are the prime ingredients when cooking Paksiw?

It is Paksiw because of the common spices for aromatics such as garlic, ginger, red chili, and bay leaves, but what makes it stand out is the contribution of vinegar to the natural recipe and taste.

Cooking Tips

  • When boil cooking with fish as delicate as tuna, just let it simmer in the pot by scooping in the cooking mixture to the fish with a regular spoon to help ensure it is cooked evenly.
  • Cooking time for the kangkong leaves is good for 20 to 30 minutes only to avoid overcooking them.

Getting you hungry, let’s get cooking!

Ready for a full stomach after all the cooking! Now, if you prefer visuals in instructions check out the video below:

PREP TIME COOK TIME TOTAL TIME COURSE CUISINE
30 mins 30 min 1 hr Main Course Filipino
  • Tuna Head
  • Garlic
  • Onion
  • Ginger
  • Tomato
  • Ginger
  • Bay leaves
  • Salt & pepper
  • Coconut milk
  • Red Chili
  • Vinegar
  • Kangkong
  1. Crush 1 whole of garlic and mince 1 onion.
  2. Cut the fish in half and secure the fish heads by setting them aside.
  3. Heat the pot over medium flame.
  4. Add garlic, onion, ginger, and pepper.
  5. Add tomato and bay leaves.
  6. Arrange cut fish in the pot.
  7. Add vinegar.
  8. Boil over medium flame for 15 to 20 minutes.
  9. Add kangkong leaves and red whole chilies.
  10. Pour in the coconut milk.
  11. Continue to boil and let simmer for 20 minutes
  12. Add salt.
  13. Now it’s cooked and ready to serve! Enjoy!

If you like this recipe, you may be interested in some of our classic recipes:

Watch the video below where we walk you through every step of this recipe. Check out our collection of recipes on Youtube, Facebook or on our Instagram.

More Kusina Recipes

Nilagang Baka Recipe

Nilagang Baka Recipe

Ang Nilagang Baka ay isang paboritong soup ng mga Pilipino. Ito ay laman ng Baka na pinakuluan na may timpla ng buong paminta, sibuyas at patis. Madalas na nilalagyan ito ng mais, patatas at green vegetables tulad ng bok choy o cabbage. Ito ang pinaka simpling recipe...

read more
Pork Igado

Pork Igado

Ang Pork Igado ay isa sa popular at pinaka paboritong lutuin ng mga Ilocano budge- friendly na masustansya at masarap. Ito ay luto na gamit ang pork meat at lamang loob tulad ng liver, kidney at ang puso ng baboy. Ito ay masarap na combination perfect for hot steamed...

read more
Chicken Adobo Recipe

Chicken Adobo Recipe

Ang Chicken Adobo ay isa sa pinaka madaling lutuin pero nag dadala ng sigla sa hapag kainan ng mga Pilipino. Ang iba ay ibina babad ito sa soy sauce, vinegar at garlic ng para lalong malasa na talagang masarap ka sama ang mainit na kanin. Ang daming style ng pag luto...

read more
Ginisang Baguio Beans

Ginisang Baguio Beans

English content currently in the making. Sorry for any inconvenience...Prep Time: 15minCook Time: 45minsReady in: 60minsIngredients Baguio beans Chicken breast Oyster sauce Salt & pepper Chilies Cooking oil Water Step by Step InstructionsStep 1 In a preheated pan,...

read more
Special Laing Recipe

Special Laing Recipe

This recipe will show you an easy, simple way to make Laing. This tasty dish is filled with flavor and nectarous aroma from the first bite to the last. The tender meat and lush vegetables accompanied by warm, steamed rice truly hit the spot.  Laing is one of the meals...

read more
Chicken Afritada

Chicken Afritada

This Chicken Afritada recipe is perfectly tendered in a fresh tomato-based sauce combined with potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers. Definitely easy to prepare and quick to cook which is perfect for family lunches or dinners and special occasions.  While I used canned...

read more