Ahi Tuna Tartar from Sushi Roku features finely diced fresh ahi tuna mixed with creamy avocado, tangy citrus, and a hint of sesame, elegantly presented in a vibrant, colorful stack that highlights its fresh and zesty flavors.
Equipments
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Ring mold (for stacking/presentation)
- Small plate (for serving)
- Citrus juicer
- Measuring spoons
- Tweezers or plating tongs (optional, for garnish)
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225g) sashimi-grade ahi tuna
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon finely chopped chives
- 1 teaspoon finely chopped cilantro
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (black or white)
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Microgreens (for garnish)
- Tobiko (optional, for garnish)
Using sashimi-grade ahi tuna is crucial for both the safety and flavor of your dish, as lower-quality tuna may not be suitable for raw consumption. Ensure your avocado is ripe but firm to maintain its creamy texture without becoming mushy when mixed with citrus juices like freshly squeezed lemon and lime. The balance of soy sauce and sesame oil adds depth, so measure carefully to avoid overpowering the delicate flavors of the fish. Incorporating finely chopped chives and cilantro enhances the freshness, while sesame seeds provide a subtle crunch and nutty aroma. You can recreate the vibrant and zesty layers of the Ahi Tuna Tartar from Sushi Roku on your copycat menu by carefully following these ingredient guidelines.
Instructions
- Wash hands and sanitize all equipment and surfaces.
- Cut ahi tuna into fine dice using a chef’s knife on a clean cutting board.
- Dice avocado evenly.
- In a mixing bowl, gently combine diced tuna and avocado.
- Add lemon juice, lime juice, soy sauce, and sesame oil to the bowl.
- Mix in chopped chives, cilantro, and sesame seeds.
- Season lightly with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Mix gently with a spoon or spatula to not mash avocado.
- Place ring mold on a small plate for serving.
- Spoon tartar mixture into the ring mold, pressing gently to shape.
- Carefully remove the ring mold to reveal stacked presentation.
- Garnish with microgreens and tobiko (if using) using tweezers or plating tongs.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
This Ahi Tuna Tartar copycat recipe from Sushi Roku captures the fresh, zesty, and creamy flavor profile of the original by combining diced sashimi-grade ahi tuna with ripe avocado, citrus juices, sesame oil, and fresh herbs. If sashimi-grade ahi tuna is unavailable, you can substitute with sushi-grade yellowfin or albacore tuna, ensuring freshness for safety. When ripe avocado is not at hand, a creamy cucumber or a mild, buttery fruit like mango can provide a similar texture and flavor balance. For plating, if you don't have a ring mold, use a small bowl or shape the tartar mixture by hand on the serving plate to maintain the visual appeal of the stack. You can adjust the citrus acidity by mixing lemon and lime juices to your taste, enhancing the bright, tangy notes characteristic of this dish.
Tips
Ensure your ahi tuna is sashimi-grade for safety and optimal freshness, as raw fish must be handled with care. Avoid over-mixing the tartar to keep the avocado from turning mushy, which maintains a pleasant texture. Use freshly squeezed lemon and lime juice to enhance brightness and prevent avocado browning. Your presentation will benefit greatly from gently pressing the mixture in the ring mold and removing it slowly to keep the vibrant stack intact.
Nutritions
Ahi Tuna Tartar from Sushi Roku is a nutrient-dense dish rich in high-quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids, essential for heart and brain health. The inclusion of ripe avocado provides healthy monounsaturated fats and fiber, supporting digestion and sustained energy. Citrus juices add vitamin C and antioxidants, while sesame oil and seeds contribute valuable minerals like calcium, magnesium, and iron. Your meal combines fresh, wholesome ingredients that promote overall wellness while delivering vibrant, satisfying flavors.
Storage
Store Ahi Tuna Tartar in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent the avocado from browning. Keep it refrigerated at or below 40degF (4degC) and consume within 24 hours for optimal safety and flavor. Your tartar's delicate ingredients respond best to cold storage without freezing, which can alter texture and taste.
Variation or Alternatives
You can experiment by substituting avocado with diced mango for a sweeter contrast that pairs well with the citrusy notes. Instead of soy sauce, tamari or coconut aminos provide a gluten-free alternative without compromising umami flavor. For extra texture, try adding finely chopped cucumber or radish to the mix. Using a bamboo mat to press and shape the tartar can help maintain a more compact presentation if you don't have a ring mold.
Allergies
Your Ahi Tuna Tartar contains ingredients like sesame oil, soy sauce, and sesame seeds, which are common allergens that may trigger reactions in sensitive individuals. People with seafood allergies should avoid this dish due to the sashimi-grade ahi tuna. Cross-contamination risks also exist with garnishes such as tobiko, which can affect those with shellfish allergies.
Why this recipe?
Sushi Roku's Ahi Tuna Tartar is celebrated for its fresh, high-quality ahi tuna balanced with zesty citrus and creamy avocado, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The dish features vibrant, hand-cut tuna mixed with a flavorful soy-based dressing and garnished with crispy wonton chips or microgreens, enhancing each bite's complexity. Making a copycat version allows you to recreate this gourmet experience at home, showcasing your culinary skills while enjoying a restaurant favorite at your convenience. Your palate will appreciate the perfect combination of freshness, tang, and crunch that defines this iconic menu item.