Seared Tuna Tataki: Crispy Outside, Tender Inside
Easy Tuna Tataki Recipe with Frozen Tuna Block – Perfect as a Side for Drinks!
Transform leftover frozen tuna block into an elegant restaurant-style Tuna Tataki right in your kitchen! This recipe sears the outside to a delightful crisp, locking in the fresh, tender interior of the tuna. It’s a perfect appetizer or a special meal. Served with a tangy-sweet soy sauce and fresh greens, it’s a dish that’s both visually appealing and incredibly delicious.
Main Ingredients- 200g frozen tuna block
- Generous amount of baby greens/sprouts
- 1/2 lime
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Let’s make some delicious Tuna Tataki at home, perfect for enjoying with drinks! This recipe yields about 2 servings.
Step 2
First, take your 200g frozen tuna block and place it on a plate after thawing. Ensure it’s thawed but still firm.
Step 3
Using paper towels, gently press down on the surface of the tuna block to absorb any excess liquid or impurities. This step is crucial for a clean flavor and appearance.
Step 4
Now, let’s season the tuna. Brush the entire surface of the tuna block with olive oil. This will help prevent sticking to the pan and add a subtle richness.
Step 5
Sprinkle about 1 teaspoon of salt evenly over the tuna.
Step 6
Add a pinch of black pepper to complete the seasoning. Let the tuna rest for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.
Step 7
While the tuna is marinating, let’s prepare the tangy soy sauce that pairs perfectly with Tuna Tataki. You’ll need 5 Tbsp soy sauce, 3 Tbsp vinegar, 1 Tbsp sugar, and some wasabi paste.
Step 8
In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, vinegar, and sugar, and whisk until well blended to create the tangy soy sauce base. Set aside a small portion of wasabi paste in the sauce bowl for added zing. (Adjust wasabi to your preference).
Step 9
Next, let’s prepare the fresh elements for our Tuna Tataki. Have a generous amount of baby greens or sprouts ready, and also prepare half a lime.
Step 10
Wash the baby greens thoroughly under cold running water and gently pat them dry. Wash the lime and slice it thinly.
Step 11
Now, let’s make the flavorful sesame crust for the outside of the tuna. Prepare 8 Tbsp of sesame seeds and 4 Tbsp of black sesame seeds. You’ll also need a shallow plate or tray.
Step 12
Combine the white and black sesame seeds in the shallow plate or tray.
Step 13
Mix the two types of sesame seeds evenly. This mixture not only looks appealing but also enhances the texture and flavor.
Step 14
After the 10-minute marinating time has passed, place the seasoned tuna block into the tray with the mixed sesame seeds.
Step 15
Gently roll the tuna block in the sesame seeds, pressing lightly so the seeds adhere well to the entire surface. Ensure an even coating.
Step 16
It’s time to sear the tuna! Place a flat-bottomed frying pan over medium-low heat on your stovetop or induction cooker. Add a little olive oil and swirl it to coat the pan.
Step 17
Once the pan is heated, carefully place the sesame-crusted tuna block into the pan. Sear only the outer surfaces, cooking it briefly.
Step 18
Rotate the tuna block frequently to ensure all sides are evenly seared. The goal is to lightly brown the exterior while keeping the inside rare.
Step 19
When the outer surfaces of the tuna tataki have turned a beautiful golden brown, carefully remove it from the pan.
Step 20
Presentation matters! Let’s plate this delicious Tuna Tataki beautifully. Start by placing a generous mound of fresh baby greens or sprouts in the center of a large plate.
Step 21
Arrange the thinly sliced lime wedges around the baby greens. The citrusy aroma of the lime will complement the tuna wonderfully.
Step 22
Slice the seared tuna block into thick pieces and arrange them attractively on the plate. Drizzle the tangy soy sauce generously over the baby greens.
Step 23
And there you have it – your homemade Tuna Tataki, perfect for a sophisticated appetizer or drink accompaniment! The tuna I made here is well-done on the outside. If you prefer a more rare ‘medium’ style, simply reduce the searing time on the pan. Feel free to adjust based on your preference!
Step 24
For those who enjoy a bit of kick, serve the tangy soy sauce with wasabi on the side. You can dip your tuna tataki into it for an extra flavor dimension.
Step 25
Even this well-done style Tuna Tataki is absolutely delicious! The contrast between the nutty seared crust and the tender tuna is fantastic. Dipping it in the tangy soy sauce is a must! If you have yuzu jam, mixing a little into the soy sauce will add an even brighter, more complex citrus note. Taking a bite with the fresh greens and tuna is simply divine and pairs wonderfully with a drink. Give this recipe a try!
