Ahi Tuna Tartare with Avocado

Ahi Tuna Tartare with Avocado Recipe - Authentic Japanese Dish

Region / culture: Japan | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Ahi Tuna Tartare with Avocado is a sophisticated and refreshing dish that combines the rich, silky textures of fresh ahi tuna with the creamy, buttery flavors of ripe avocados. This dish is perfect for a light appetizer or a healthy, elegant entrée. The combination of seasoned rice wine vinegar, lime juice, and soy sauce dressing adds a tangy and savory depth to the dish, making it irresistibly flavorful. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or looking for a special meal for two, this recipe is sure to impress.

History

The concept of tartare, originally applied to beef, has its roots in European cuisine, with the dish gaining popularity in the 20th century. Ahi Tuna Tartare, however, is a more modern invention, reflecting the fusion of Asian and Western culinary traditions. The use of raw tuna, a staple in Japanese cuisine, combined with ingredients like soy sauce and sesame oil, showcases the global influences that have shaped contemporary cooking. The addition of avocado, a fruit native to South Central Mexico, adds a New World twist to the dish, making it a true fusion of flavors and traditions.

Ingredients

1 tsp water
0.75 cup seasoned rice wine vinegar
0.5 cup lime juice
0.25 cup soy sauce
3 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
1.5 tsp salt
1-2 tbsp chopped cilantro
1.25 cups vegetable oil
0.25 cup toasted Asian sesame oil
6 lb (2.72 kg) california avocados
4.5 lb (2.04 kg) ahi tuna

How to prepare

In a bowl, whisk together vinegar, lime juice, soy sauce, garlic, and salt. Then, whisk in oil.
Set aside.
Combine cilantro with 0.5 diced avocado and 3 oz (85 g) coarsely chopped tuna.
Carefully fold in 2 tbsp of the reserved dressing.

Variations

For a spicy kick, add a finely chopped jalapeño or a drizzle of sriracha to the dressing. You can also substitute the ahi tuna with salmon or yellowtail for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best flavor and texture for your Ahi Tuna Tartare with Avocado, use only the freshest ahi tuna you can find, preferably sashimi grade. When cutting the tuna and avocado, aim for uniform, bite-sized pieces to ensure a pleasant mouthfeel. Incorporating the dressing just before serving keeps the dish vibrant and prevents the avocado from browning. For an extra touch of elegance, use a ring mold when plating to create a visually stunning presentation.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Ahi Tuna Tartare with Avocado on a bed of mixed greens or with a side of crispy wonton chips for added texture. Garnish with additional chopped cilantro and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a finishing touch.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in preparing this dish is the careful cutting of the tuna and avocado to ensure even, bite-sized pieces. Whisking the dressing until emulsified helps to blend the flavors and create a smooth, cohesive sauce.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're unable to find seasoned rice wine vinegar, you can substitute it with a mix of white wine vinegar and a pinch of sugar. Tamari can be used in place of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

The dressing can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. However, it's best to cut the tuna and avocado and assemble the dish just before serving to maintain freshness and prevent browning.

Presentation Ideas

For an elegant presentation, use a ring mold to shape the tartare on the plate. Garnish with microgreens, edible flowers, or thinly sliced radishes for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a crisp, dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light, floral rosé to complement the flavors of the tuna and avocado.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

This dish is best enjoyed fresh and does not store or reheat well due to the raw ingredients. Any leftovers should be discarded.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Ahi Tuna Tartare with Avocado contains approximately 350 calories. The majority of these calories come from the healthy fats in the avocado and oils, making it a satisfying yet balanced option.

Carbohydrates

This dish is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the primary sources being the lime juice and seasoned rice wine vinegar. The total carbohydrate content is approximately 15 grams per serving, making it a suitable option for those following a low-carb or ketogenic diet.

Fats

The Ahi Tuna Tartare with Avocado is rich in healthy fats, primarily from the avocado and the oils used in the dressing. Avocados are an excellent source of monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health. The sesame and vegetable oils contribute both monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, including omega-3 fatty acids from the tuna. The total fat content is about 30 grams per serving, with a significant portion coming from these healthy fats.

Proteins

Ahi tuna is an excellent source of high-quality protein, with a serving of this dish providing approximately 25 grams of protein. This makes it an ideal choice for individuals looking to increase their protein intake, such as athletes or those on a weight management plan.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals, thanks to the nutrient-rich ingredients like ahi tuna and avocado. Ahi tuna is a good source of vitamins B12 and D, as well as minerals like selenium and iodine. Avocados contribute a wide array of nutrients, including vitamin K, vitamin E, vitamin C, and potassium, making this dish not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious.

Alergens

The primary allergens in this dish are fish (ahi tuna) and soy (soy sauce). Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should avoid this recipe or seek suitable substitutions.

Summary

Overall, Ahi Tuna Tartare with Avocado is a nutritious dish that offers a good balance of proteins, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is low in carbohydrates and calories, making it an excellent choice for a variety of dietary needs.

Summary

Ahi Tuna Tartare with Avocado is a delightful fusion dish that combines the best of Asian and Western culinary traditions. With its rich flavors, nutritious ingredients, and elegant presentation, it's the perfect choice for a special occasion or a healthy, gourmet meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately intrigued. It was a warm summer day, and I had decided to visit a local farmers market in search of fresh ingredients for my next culinary experiment. As I wandered through the stalls, a friendly vendor caught my eye with a display of vibrant Ahi tuna and ripe avocados.

Intrigued by the combination of flavors, I struck up a conversation with the vendor, who shared with me the recipe for Ahi Tuna Tartare with Avocado. He explained that the dish originated in Hawaii, where the fresh seafood and tropical fruits inspired a unique fusion of flavors.

Eager to try my hand at this new recipe, I purchased the ingredients and headed home to my kitchen. As I prepared the dish, I thought back to all the recipes I had learned over the years from various places and people. Each one had a story behind it, a memory attached to the flavors and aromas that filled my kitchen.

I remembered my own grandmother, who had taught me the importance of using fresh, seasonal ingredients in my cooking. She had a knack for creating dishes that were simple yet bursting with flavor, and I had inherited her love of experimenting with new recipes.

As I diced the fresh Ahi tuna and mashed the ripe avocados, I thought about the vendor at the farmers market who had shared this recipe with me. He had told me about the importance of using the highest quality ingredients to let the natural flavors shine through.

With a sense of anticipation, I mixed the tuna and avocado together with a splash of soy sauce, a squeeze of lime, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. The colors and textures of the dish came together in a beautiful harmony, creating a visual feast for the eyes.

As I took my first bite of the Ahi Tuna Tartare with Avocado, I was transported to a tropical paradise. The freshness of the seafood combined with the creaminess of the avocado was a match made in culinary heaven. The tanginess of the lime and the umami of the soy sauce added depth and complexity to the dish, making it a true delight for the senses.

I couldn't help but think about all the recipes I had learned over the years and the memories attached to each one. From my grandmother's comforting stews to the exotic dishes I had discovered during my travels, each recipe had a story to tell.

As I savored each bite of the Ahi Tuna Tartare with Avocado, I felt grateful for the rich tapestry of flavors and experiences that had shaped my culinary journey. It was a reminder of the joy that cooking brought me, of the connections forged through food and the stories shared around the table.

And so, as I finished my meal and cleaned up my kitchen, I knew that this recipe would hold a special place in my heart. It was not just a dish to be enjoyed, but a reminder of the endless possibilities that awaited me in the world of cooking.

As I closed my eyes and savored the lingering flavors of the Ahi Tuna Tartare with Avocado, I couldn't help but smile. For in that moment, I knew that my passion for cooking would continue to inspire me, one recipe at a time.