Seared Tuna Tataki Recipe – Easy Meal Recipe

Last Updated on March 26, 2025

Before diving into the delightful world of seared tuna tataki, let’s chat about what pairs beautifully with it. Imagine sitting by the water on a sunny day, a plate of this dish in front of you. What else could elevate that meal? Here are a few enticing pairings:

Sushi Rice, Fresh Salad, Soy Sauce and Wasabi, Sake or Dry White Wine, Pickled Vegetables etc. Now, let’s jump into the heart of the matter.

What is Seared Tuna Tataki?

Seared tuna tataki is a Japanese method of preparing fresh tuna, characterized by its brief searing—typically just a few seconds on each side. The goal is to cook the surface while preserving the fish’s raw center. This technique results in a dish that’s artfully simple yet elegantly flavorful.

Tataki means “to pound” or “to knock” in Japanese, indicating a form of preparation that highlights the fresh taste rather than masking it. This dish is often paired with dipping sauces and garnished creatively, making it not just a meal but an experience.

What is the Flavor Profile of This Dish?

The flavor profile of seared tuna tataki is truly special. On the outside, you have that satisfying char and slight crunch from the sear. It harmonizes with the tender, almost melt-in-your-mouth quality of the raw fish inside. The seasoning and sauce bring extra dimensions—spicy, tangy, and umami-rich.

The scrolling notes of sesame, garlic, and ginger mingle together, creating a delightful explosion of flavor. It is a well-balanced dish that appeals to many palates, from those who enjoy a hint of spice to others who prefer a more mellow profile.

What Makes This Recipe Different From Other Seared Tuna Tataki?

While many recipes exist for seared tuna tataki, what sets this one apart is the thoughtful combination of spices and the freshness of the tuna. The mix of black and white sesame seeds, poppy seeds, and flaky sea salt adds a gourmet touch.

Additionally, a homemade sauce featuring spicy honey and ponzu lends a unique twist compared to traditional soy sauce alone. 

Moreover, using fresh ingredients ensures a quality that is often lost in restaurant versions. This is a recipe meant to be made at home, where you can control every aspect.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s your shopping list to create this exquisite dish:

For the Tuna:

• 3-4 fresh tuna fillets
• Sliced green onions, for garnish
• Korean chili flakes, for garnish

For the Seasoning:

• 1 teaspoon dried garlic flakes
• 1 teaspoon dried onion flakes
• 1.5 teaspoons black sesame seeds
• 1.5 teaspoons white sesame seeds
• 0.5 teaspoon poppy seeds
• 1.5 teaspoons flaky sea salt

For the Sauce:

• 1.5 tablespoons spicy honey
• 2 teaspoons ginger paste
• 0.25 cup soy sauce
• 0.125 cup ponzu sauce
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar (optional, for extra tang)
• 0.5 teaspoon toasted sesame oil (optional, for a richer flavor)

Step by Step Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Tuna

Start with the freshest tuna you can find. It’s essential for this dish. Inspect the fillets for any browning or off smells. Rinse them under cold water, and pat them dry with paper towels. This ensures a good sear.

Step 2: Season the Tuna

On a large plate, combine the garlic flakes, onion flakes, black sesame seeds, white sesame seeds, poppy seeds, and flaky sea salt. Roll the tuna fillets in this mixture until all sides are coated. Make sure every inch gets a fair share of that lovely seasoning.

Step 3: Heat the Pan

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add a splash of oil and allow it to get hot—almost to the point of smoking. You want to create a quick sear, which locks in moisture and flavor.

Step 4: Sear the Tuna

Carefully place the seasoned fillets onto the skillet. Sear each side for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, depending on how rare you like your tuna. You’re looking for a golden brown crust on the outside, while the inside remains bright pink.

Step 5: Create the Sauce

While the tuna is searing, whisk together the spicy honey, ginger paste, soy sauce, ponzu sauce, lemon juice, rice vinegar, and sesame oil in a small bowl. Adjust to taste. If you like it spicier, add extra ginger paste or a dash of wasabi.

Step 6: Slice the Tuna

Once seared, allow the tuna to rest for a minute. Using a sharp knife, slice the fillets into thin, elegant pieces. Aim for about ¼-inch thick slices.

Step 7: Plate and Serve

Arrange the slices beautifully on a plate. Drizzle with the sauce and sprinkle the sliced green onions and Korean chili flakes on top. The vibrant colors leap from the plate, drawing everyone in.

Tips On Making Seared Tuna Tataki

Here are five tips to elevate your seared tuna tataki:

• Use the Best Tuna: Freshness is key. Opt for sushi-grade tuna for optimal taste and safety.
  
• Control Searing Time: Don’t overcook. Aim for a quick sear to maintain the tender texture.
  
• Temperature Matters: Use a very hot pan for the best sear. This technique crisps the outside while keeping the inside tender.
  
• Garnish Creatively: Don’t shy away from garnishing with fresh herbs, radish slices, or even microgreens to add visual appeal.
  
• Experiment with Sauces: While the provided sauce is delicious, feel free to play with citrus juices or additional spices to find your perfect flavor balance.

Nutrition Information

Understanding what you’re eating is crucial. Here’s a breakdown for a serving of seared tuna tataki:

• Calories: Approximately 220
• Protein: 30 grams
• Fat: 9 grams
• Carbs: 8 grams
• Fiber: 1 gram

This dish is high in protein with lower carbohydrates, making it a suitable option for those monitoring their macronutrient intake.

How Can I Store This Seared Tuna Tataki?

If you find yourself with leftovers—though I doubt that will happen—here’s how to store it:

1. Refrigerate: Place the slices in an airtight container. They should stay fresh for up to 2 days.
2. Freezing: If you prefer to freeze it, do so before searing. Wrap the unseasoned tuna tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can last for up to 3 months.
3. Serve Cold: This dish can be served chilled. Just make sure to refrigerate it promptly after preparation.

Substitute Options for Ingredients

What if you don’t have everything on hand? Here are some great alternatives:

• Fresh Tuna: Salmon or yellowtail can be used in place of tuna. Both offer a delicious flavor.
  
• Soy Sauce: If you’re out, try tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a lighter taste.
  
• Ponzu Sauce: Consider a mixture of lime juice and soy sauce if ponzu isn’t available.
  
• Sesame Oil: If you don’t have toasted sesame oil, using a bit of olive oil with regular sesame seeds works as a decent substitute.

Conclusion

Seared tuna tataki is more than just a dish; it’s an experience. It combines simple ingredients with sophisticated techniques to produce something utterly divine. The enjoyment of a perfectly cooked tuna fillet, paired with the right sauce and garnishes, makes for an unforgettable meal.

As you embark on making this dish, remember every step is a chance to showcase your culinary skills. Don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors and pairings. Cooking is about exploration and enjoyment, after all. Here’s to delicious moments created in your kitchen!

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Print Recipe

Seared Tuna Tataki Recipe – Easy Meal Recipe

Author: Mary Siegel Cuisine: Japanese Courses: Lunch & Dinner

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 30 mins Total Time 45 mins

Servings: 4 Calories: 220 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Walking into a sushi restaurant, the vibrant colors of raw fish on ice never fail to draw my attention. Amongst these dazzling displays, seared tuna tataki stands out as an irresistible choice. 

The lightly seared exterior, marbled with hints of pink, captures my taste buds every time. It’s a dish that exudes sophistication without being overly complex. As a food blogger, I've had my fair share of experiences with seafood, and this recipe remains a highlight.

Seared tuna tataki offers a unique balance of flavor, texture, and presentation. Today, I aim to take you on a journey exploring this exceptional dish, guiding you from ingredient selection to the final plating. You don’t just cook; you create a culinary masterpiece.

Ingredient

Servings

For the Tuna:

• 3-4 fresh tuna fillets
• Sliced green onions, for garnish
• Korean chili flakes, for garnish

For the Seasoning:

• 1 teaspoon dried garlic flakes
• 1 teaspoon dried onion flakes
• 1 ¹⁄₂ teaspoons black sesame seeds
• 1 ¹⁄₂ teaspoons white sesame seeds
• ¹⁄₂ tablespoon poppy seeds
• 1 ¹⁄₂ teaspoons flaky sea salt

For the Sauce:

• 1 ¹⁄₂ tablespoons spicy honey
• 2 teaspoons ginger paste
• ¹⁄₄ cup soy sauce
• ¹⁄₈ cup ponzu sauce
• 1 of Juice lemon
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar (optional, for extra tang)
• ¹⁄₂ tablespoon toasted sesame oil (optional, for a richer flavor)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Tuna

1. Start with the freshest tuna you can find. It’s essential for this dish. Inspect the fillets for any browning or off smells. Rinse them under cold water, and pat them dry with paper towels. This ensures a good sear.

Step 2: Season the Tuna

1. On a large plate, combine the garlic flakes, onion flakes, black sesame seeds, white sesame seeds, poppy seeds, and flaky sea salt. Roll the tuna fillets in this mixture until all sides are coated. Make sure every inch gets a fair share of that lovely seasoning.

Step 3: Heat the Pan

1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add a splash of oil and allow it to get hot—almost to the point of smoking. You want to create a quick sear, which locks in moisture and flavor.

Step 4: Sear the Tuna

1. Carefully place the seasoned fillets onto the skillet. Sear each side for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, depending on how rare you like your tuna. You're looking for a golden brown crust on the outside, while the inside remains bright pink.

Step 5: Create the Sauce

1. While the tuna is searing, whisk together the spicy honey, ginger paste, soy sauce, ponzu sauce, lemon juice, rice vinegar, and sesame oil in a small bowl. Adjust to taste. If you like it spicier, add extra ginger paste or a dash of wasabi.

Step 6: Slice the Tuna

1. Once seared, allow the tuna to rest for a minute. Using a sharp knife, slice the fillets into thin, elegant pieces. Aim for about ¼-inch thick slices.

Step 7: Plate and Serve

1. Arrange the slices beautifully on a plate. Drizzle with the sauce and sprinkle the sliced green onions and Korean chili flakes on top. The vibrant colors leap from the plate, drawing everyone in.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

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Amount Per Serving

Calories 220kcal

% Daily Value *

Total Fat 9g14%

Total Carbohydrate 8g3%

Dietary Fiber 1g4%

Protein 30g60%

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* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

• Use the Best Tuna: Freshness is key. Opt for sushi-grade tuna for optimal taste and safety.
  
• Control Searing Time: Don’t overcook. Aim for a quick sear to maintain the tender texture.
  
• Temperature Matters: Use a very hot pan for the best sear. This technique crisps the outside while keeping the inside tender.
  
• Garnish Creatively: Don’t shy away from garnishing with fresh herbs, radish slices, or even microgreens to add visual appeal.
  
• Experiment with Sauces: While the provided sauce is delicious, feel free to play with citrus juices or additional spices to find your perfect flavor balance.

Keywords: Seared tuna tataki recipe