“I typically make this dish as a starter to my tuna and soba dish (see Seduction Meal recipes – main dishes). Many of the ingredients are the same for both dishes so its easy to prepare at the same time and a great way to start your evening’s culinary adventure.”
spicy tuna tartare recipe
potato chip garnish
1 medium size sweet potato or white potato
Using a mandolin so you can get really thin slices. Slice a few slices from the center of the potato to yield a nice size round slice. Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet under high heat. When hot, turn to medium high and cook the 4 potato slices until golden brown. Turn over and cook other side. When the potato has turned into a beautifully crispy potato chip, remove from the skillet and place on a cookie rack, letting it air dry on all sides. Place a napkin under the chip to catch the oil.
dipping sauce
1/2 cup soy sauce
2-3 tablespoons of Yuzu
pinch of red hot pepper flakes
1/2 teaspoon of sake
Mix all ingredients together. Set aside
spicy tuna tartare
1/2 lb of sushi grade Ahi tuna
Thai chili sauce
Small bit of soy based Japanese Mayonnaise
Chop tuna, using the double cleaver method or a good chef’s knife. Cut tuna into 1/8 inch cubes, do not cut into a paste, we are looking to manage and cut the tuna into little chunks. Add the Thai sauce and Japanese mayonnaise; mix well.
plating the dish
Take the dipping sauce and skim coat your serving dish. Place a mound of tuna tartare in the center of the plate; add micro greens (bean
sprouts) as a garnish on the side, and top tuna with a strategically placed potato chip.
Pour two cups of sake and Bonsai!
Note: You can buy the Japanese mayo, yuzu and Thai chili in gourmet markets, Asian markets / grocery stores or online.
Yuzu is a Japanese citrus fruit that is quite tart in flavor and is about the size of a tangerine
Japanese Mayo is made of vegetable oil, egg yolk, vinegar, salt, monosodium glutamate, spices and contains egg. How cute is that kewpie image on the package!
Thai chili paste can be bought; I prefer the Mae Pranom brand with the Rooster on it, or you can make home-made Thai chili sauce. Homemade is always best!
