Spicy Tuna Tartare Recipe
If you love fresh, flavorful seafood, this spicy tuna tartare recipe is sure to impress. It combines tender, high-quality tuna with a zesty and spicy sauce, creating a perfect appetizer or snack. Ideal for a dinner party, special occasion, or just a treat for yourself, this dish is quick, easy, and absolutely delicious.
Ingredients
For the Spicy Tuna Tartare, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb sushi-grade tuna (fresh and high-quality is essential)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste for heat level)
- 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon green onions, thinly sliced (optional, for garnish)
- 1/2 avocado, diced (optional for added creaminess)
- Tortilla chips or crispy wonton chips (for serving)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Tuna
Start by cutting your sushi-grade tuna into small, uniform cubes. Make sure your knife is sharp to get clean cuts without crushing the tuna. If you prefer a more refined texture, you can chop the tuna into very fine pieces, but be careful not to overprocess it.
2. Mix the Sauce
In a medium bowl, combine sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sriracha, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Stir until the sauce is well-mixed, and taste to adjust the seasoning. If you like it spicier, add more sriracha.
3. Combine the Tuna and Sauce
Add the cubed tuna to the sauce and gently mix until the tuna is evenly coated. Be gentle when mixing to preserve the delicate texture of the tuna. If you’re adding avocado, fold it in now for extra creaminess.
4. Garnish and Serve
Spoon the tartare mixture onto a serving plate. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for a pop of color and flavor. Serve with tortilla chips or crispy wonton chips for an extra crunch.
Pro Tips
- Use fresh, sushi-grade tuna for the best taste and safety. Never substitute with frozen tuna unless it’s specifically labeled as sushi-grade.
- Adjust the heat level by adding more or less sriracha, depending on how spicy you like it.
- Make ahead: If you’re preparing this in advance, it’s best to mix the tuna and sauce just before serving to preserve the freshness and texture of the fish.
- For a twist: You can add a bit of citrus zest like lemon or lime to the sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This spicy tuna tartare recipe is simple yet bursting with flavor. The balance of savory soy sauce, aromatic sesame oil, and fiery sriracha creates a harmonious blend of tastes that complements the delicate, fresh tuna. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just craving something special, this dish is sure to be a hit!
Enjoy your spicy tuna tartare as an appetizer or pair it with your favorite sushi rolls for a complete meal.
