Tuna Tataki

Tuna Tataki

Tuna Tataki is a vibrant and flavorful Japanese dish featuring lightly seared tuna served with a tangy soy-based sauce.

The exterior of the tuna is seared to perfection, while the inside remains rare and tender. This dish highlights the natural freshness of the tuna, which is complemented by a savory marinade and a fresh, zesty garnish.

Often served as an appetizer or light main course, Tuna Tataki is a delightful choice for seafood lovers looking for a refreshing, healthy, and elegant meal.

Ingredients

For the Tuna:

2 tuna steaks (6-8 oz each), sushi-grade

2 tablespoons sesame oil

1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for searing)

Salt and black pepper to taste

1 tablespoon sesame seeds (black and white)

1 tablespoon fresh cilantro or parsley (for garnish)

For the Marinade/Sauce:

3 tablespoons soy sauce

2 tablespoons rice vinegar

1 tablespoon mirin (or honey)

1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger

1 clove garlic, minced

1 teaspoon wasabi paste (optional, for extra heat)

1 teaspoon sesame oil

1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (optional)

1 tablespoon chopped green onions (for garnish)

1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

For Serving (optional):

Sliced cucumber

Pickled ginger

Thinly sliced radishes

How to Make

Step 1: Prepare the Tuna

Pat the tuna steaks dry with paper towels to remove any moisture. This helps in achieving a good sear on the outside.

Season the tuna steaks with salt and black pepper on both sides.

Step 2: Make the Marinade/Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, mirin (or honey), grated ginger, minced garlic, wasabi paste (if using), sesame oil, and lime juice. Stir until well combined and set aside.

Step 3: Sear the Tuna

Heat vegetable oil and sesame oil in a non-stick skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat.

Once the oil is hot, carefully place the tuna steaks in the skillet. Sear the tuna for about 1-2 minutes on each side, just enough to create a golden-brown crust while leaving the center rare and raw.

Remove the tuna from the pan and allow it to rest for 5 minutes.

Step 4: Slice the Tuna

Using a sharp knife, slice the tuna into thin, bite-sized slices. For a clean, smooth cut, wipe the knife between each slice.

Step 5: Assemble the Dish

Arrange the tuna slices on a plate in an overlapping pattern.

Drizzle the prepared marinade over the tuna slices.

Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley, chopped green onions, and toasted sesame seeds.

For an extra touch, you can serve the tuna tataki with sliced cucumber, pickled ginger, and radishes for added texture and flavor.

Chef’s Note

Tuna Tataki is all about the quality of the tuna, so make sure to use the freshest sushi-grade tuna you can find for the best results.

If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of wasabi paste or omit it entirely.

The searing time should be kept minimal—only sear for about 1-2 minutes on each side to preserve the rare texture inside.

You can make this dish ahead of time by preparing the marinade and garnishes in advance, but be sure to sear and slice the tuna just before serving to maintain its fresh taste.

If you want to elevate the dish, you can serve the tuna with a side of avocado slices or a small bed of arugula.

Nutrition Information (per serving, serves 2)

Calories: 210

Protein: 35g

Carbohydrates: 6g

Fat: 8g

Fiber: 2g

Sugar: 3g

Sodium: 900mg

Tuna Tataki is a perfect fusion of fresh, high-quality tuna and bold, savory flavors. It’s a simple yet sophisticated dish that brings out the best in seafood while offering a delightful balance of textures and flavors. Whether served as an appetizer or a light main course, Tuna Tataki is sure to impress your guests with its elegance and freshness.