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Tuna Tartare with Avocado and Soy Dressing

Elina James
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Appetizers
Cuisine French
Servings 3 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • For the Tuna Tartare:
  • 200 g (7 oz) sushi-grade fresh tuna, finely diced
  • 1 ripe avocado, diced
  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped red onion or shallot
  • 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh chili or jalapeño (optional, for heat)
  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh cilantro or chives
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
  • For the Soy Dressing:
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice (or yuzu juice for authentic Japanese flavor)
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
  • ½ teaspoon honey or mirin
  • ½ teaspoon freshly grated ginger
  • ½ teaspoon minced garlic (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Prepare the Dressing : In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, lime juice, sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey, ginger, and garlic. Taste and adjust — add more lime for acidity or soy for saltiness. Set aside to let the flavors develop while you prepare the tartare.
  • Step 2: Prepare the Tuna : Pat the tuna dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Using a very sharp knife, dice the tuna into small cubes (about ¼-inch pieces). Place the diced tuna in a chilled bowl and keep refrigerated until ready to assemble.
  • Step 3: Prepare the Avocado Layer : Dice the avocado into small cubes of similar size to the tuna. Gently toss with a few drops of lime juice to prevent browning.
  • Step 4: Combine Ingredients : In a mixing bowl, gently combine the tuna, onion (or shallot), cilantro, and a few teaspoons of the dressing. Mix lightly — do not mash the tuna. You want distinct pieces coated with dressing.
  • Step 5: Assemble the Tartare : Option 1 — Layered Presentation: Using a round plating ring or mold, spoon the avocado into the bottom layer. Add the tuna mixture on top and press down gently. Carefully lift the mold to reveal neat layers. Option 2 — Rustic Presentation: Spoon the tuna mixture directly onto a chilled plate. Scatter avocado cubes over or around it.
  • Step 6: Garnish and Serve : Drizzle the remaining dressing over the top. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and extra herbs. Serve immediately with crispy wonton chips, toasted baguette slices, or cucumber rounds.