Loko-Loko: A Pufferfish Delicacy with a Zing in Bantayan Island

Loko-Loko, also known as Buriring, is a type of pufferfish that gets Bantayanons excited and thrilled. It can be prepared as a local delicacy. While I’ve personally had a positive experience, and let me tell you, it filled my tummy with deliciously goodies from these cutie puffs, haha🤣! It’s also important to remember the risks involved though. 

There was a case, however, of a family I believe was poisoned by pufferfish in Cebu. This is because some pufferfish species, while similar in appearance to Loko-Loko, contain toxins. You can find more information about these different pufferfish varieties online (link here). The link includes a picture at the top showing the two varieties of pufferfish: Loko-Loko (or Buriring) on top, and the toxin-containing variety below.

https://bacolodfoodhunters.com/2014/08/09/cadiz-citys-first-buriring-puffer-fish-festival/#jp-carousel-8561

I’m sharing the link to this blog here, and I’m surprised there’s also a part of the Philippines that has a Buriring Festival! Like WOW! 😮 Credits to the owner of this blog 🙂

As I’ve also recently seen on KMJS, they featured Buriring in Masbate, where they also have a Buriring festival. If you’re interested in learning more about Buriring and the festival in Masbate, I recommend checking out the KMJS feature. They showcased various recipes and provided valuable information on handling and preparing this delicacy safely.

Loko-Loko (Buriring) is a small pufferfish enjoyed in some parts of the Philippines, particularly here in Bantayan Island. It’s traditionally prepared in a simple way, as in very simple, not taking less than 5 minutes, highlighting the natural flavor of the fish.

HOW TO PREPARE LOKO-LOKO:

• Fresh Loko-Loko fish (crucially important: ensure it’s Loko-Loko and not another pufferfish species)
• Libas leaves (Spondias pinnata) sometimes called hog plum (usually included for free when buying Loko-Loko)
• Lemongrass stalk (optional – included with some Loko-Loko purchases)
• Salt to taste
• Water

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Clean the Fish: Thoroughly rinse the Loko-Loko under clean running water.
2. Layer the Pot: In a casserole, place the Libas leaves at the bottom.
3. Add Aromatics (Optional): If available, add the bruised lemongrass stalk on top of the Libas leaves.
4. Add Loko-Loko: Gently place the Loko-Loko fish in the casserole.
5. Seasoning and Water: Season with salt to taste, then carefully pour a small amount of water into the pot. You only need enough water to barely cover the bottom layer of fish.
6. Heat it Up: Bring the water to a boil over medium heat.
7. Simmering: Once boiling, reduce heat and simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through.
8. Serve: Enjoy your Loko-Loko hot directly in the pot.

HOW TO EAT LOKO-LOKO:

1. Separate the Flesh: Carefully handle the cooked Loko-Loko with your hands. Tear it in half along the belly, separating the flesh from the tail and head.
2. Eating the Flesh: Suck out the insides of the flesh. Be aware that the yellowish part is the liver, which has a very strong flavor (but hey, it’s my favorite😋🤤!). My next favorite part is the tail. I don’t like the head, but you can try sucking the flavors out or even eat it whole if you’d like. haha😂!

ADDITIONAL NOTES TO REMEMBER:

• It’s important to be aware of the dangers associated with Loko-Loko consumption, even for varieties considered “safer.” Important Note: Loko-Loko, like all pufferfish, can be risky. This recipe is for informational purposes only.

• Hey, it’s Loko-Loko season in Bantayan (July-August)! This coincides with sugar apple season, haha 😂. But here’s a funny local saying: supposedly, when it’s squid season, the Loko-Loko get scared and disappear until next year Loki-Loki yarn haha! 😂

• Anyway, I just had to share this dish I love! Loko-Loko is a local favorite, but remember safety first, especially when exploring delicacies like this. Okye??

PRICE OF LOKO-LOKO/BURIRING

As of this writing, the price of Loko-Loko is currently ₱160.00 per kilo ($2.74). However, when supply is more, it can drop to around ₱50.00-₱100.00 per kilo (approximately USD $0.85 – $1.70) until the Loko-Loko season ends.

MINI VLOG

If you do like my video don’t forget to subscribe my YouTube channel  https://youtube.com/c/chasingpotatoes   THANK YOU SO MUCH!