Tuna Tataki is a traditional Japanese dish that showcases the freshness and quality of the tuna. The name “tataki” refers to the method of lightly searing the exterior of the fish, while preserving its rawness on the inside. This unique cooking technique enhances the natural flavours of the tuna, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. Our recipe combines Tuna Tataki with fresh mangoes and Ponzu Sauce, unique to Japanese cuisine. The term “ponzu” specifically refers to the juice of lemons, limes, yuzu, and other citrus fruits, to which mirin and soy sauce are added. The resulting sauce (Ponzu Shoyu) strikes a perfect balance between salty, sour and sweet.

Ingredients for 6-7 servings:

• 500 gr sashimi-grade tuna, at least 3-4 cm thick
• 1 small mango
• 6-7 cherry tomatoes
• 1 small red onion
• 1/2 cup watercress
• 4-5 basil leaves
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil with a high smoke point

For the Ponzu sauce:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup dried bonito flakes
• 1 sheet of dried kombu seaweed (about 10×10 cm) or 2 tablespoons wakame seaweed
• 1/4 cup citrus juice (a mix of orange juice and lemon juice)
• Lemon zest from 1 lemon
• 1 tablespoon mirin

 Preparation instructions:

1. Prepare the Ponzu sauce:
   • Soak 1/4 cup of bonito flakes and 1 sheet of kombu in 1/4 cup of soy sauce in a small saucepan.
   • Simmer (do not boil) for 10-15 minutes.
   • Add 1/4 cup of citrus juice, lemon zest, and 1 tablespoon of mirin to the saucepan.
   • Set aside for 10-15 minutes, then drain well to remove seaweed, bonito flakes, and lemon zest. The Ponzu sauce is ready.
2. Prepare vegetable mix:
   • Slice cherry tomatoes, red onion, and mango into tiny cubes.
   • Put the sliced vegetables into a bowl.
   • Add finely chopped basil leaves, watercress, and 4-5 tablespoons of the Ponzu sauce to the bowl.
3. Sear the tuna:
   • Bring the tuna to room temperature.
   • Heat vegetable oil in a non-stick frying pan.
   • When the oil is hot, sear the tuna for 20-30 seconds on each side.
   • Once all 4 sides are seared, remove the tuna from the pan and let it cool down.
4. Assemble and serve:
   • Slice the cooled tuna into thin pieces (about 0.5 cm thick).
   • Place the sliced tuna on a plate.
   • Arrange the vegetable mix with the sauce on top of each tuna piece.
   • Garnish with additional watercress and roasted sesame seeds.
   • Enjoy your delicious Tuna Tataki!