Appetizer · Seafood · French-Asian Fusion

Tuna Tartare With Sesame Avocado Base

This elegant tuna tartare features pristine sashimi-grade fish tossed in a bright ginger-soy dressing served over a silky sesame avocado base.

4.5(113 reviews)
·By Ethan Brooks·
Tuna Tartare With Sesame Avocado Base — French-Asian Fusion Appetizer served and photographed from above
Prep
20 min
Cook
0 min
Difficulty
Easy
Serves
4

Preparation

Get these tasks done before you start cooking.

Prep the Fish

  1. 1

    Chill the tuna

    Keep the tuna in the refrigerator until the very moment you are ready to dice it.

    Tip: Place the tuna in the freezer for 15 minutes before cutting to get perfect, clean cubes.

How to Make Tuna Tartare With Sesame Avocado Base

Total time: 20 min · Yields 4 servings

  1. 1

    Prepare the Tuna

    Using a very sharp knife, dice the sashimi-grade tuna into small, uniform 1/4 inch cubes. Place the diced tuna into a chilled glass bowl to maintain freshness.

  2. 2

    Mix the Dressing

    In a separate small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, lime juice, toasted sesame oil, grated ginger, and sriracha until well combined.

  3. 3

    Season the Fish

    Pour the dressing over the diced tuna and add the sliced scallions. Toss gently with a spoon to coat every piece of fish without mashing the delicate protein.

  4. 4

    Prepare the Avocado Base

    In a medium bowl, gently fold together the diced avocados, lime juice, black sesame seeds, and salt. Aim for a chunky but spreadable consistency.

  5. 5

    Assemble the Tartare

    Place a metal ring mold in the center of a chilled plate. Pack a quarter of the avocado mixture into the bottom, then top with a quarter of the tuna mixture. Press down lightly with the back of a spoon.

  6. 6

    Unmold and Serve

    Carefully lift the ring mold upward to reveal the layers. Repeat for the remaining three servings and serve immediately while cold.

Chef's Tips

  • Always ask your fishmonger specifically for sashimi-grade or sushi-grade tuna to ensure safety.
  • Do not dress the tuna more than 15 minutes before serving as the acid in the lime juice will begin to 'cook' the fish.
  • Use a ring mold for a professional look, or simply layer the components in small glass ramekins.

What to Serve with Tuna Tartare With Sesame Avocado Base

The garlic butter sauce is the star — pick sides that soak it up or balance the richness.

  • Wonton chips
  • Cucumber slices
  • Rice crackers
  • Toasted baguette points

Recipe Variations

Once you've mastered the base recipe, try these popular twists.

Variation

Add 1 tsp of orange zest for an extra citrus kick.

Variation

Swap sriracha for wasabi paste for a more traditional Japanese heat profile.

Variation

Mix in 1 tbsp of finely diced cucumber for added crunch.

Storage & Reheating

Tuna tartare must be eaten the day it is prepared. Leftovers do not store well due to the raw nature of the fish and the oxidation of the avocado.

Further reading

Frequently asked questions

What type of fish should I buy for tuna tartare?

You must use sashimi-grade or sushi-grade tuna, typically Ahi (Yellowfin or Bigeye). This ensures the fish has been handled and frozen specifically for raw consumption.

Can I make tuna tartare in advance?

You can dice the ingredients ahead of time, but do not mix the tuna with the dressing or the avocado with the lime until just before serving to prevent discoloration and texture changes.

Is tuna tartare safe to eat?

When prepared with high-quality, sashimi-grade fish and kept at the proper cold temperature, it is a standard raw preparation enjoyed worldwide. Avoid it if you are pregnant or immunocompromised.

How do I get the perfect layers in my tuna tartare?

Using a stainless steel ring mold is the best method. Pack the avocado layer firmly first to create a stable base for the tuna.

What can I use if I don't have a ring mold?

You can use an empty, cleaned-out tuna can with both ends removed, or simply layer the ingredients in a clear glass bowl or ramekin.

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