As a self-proclaimed food enthusiast, I’ve had my fair share of dining experiences that marry flavor with creativity. Out of the countless plates I’ve savored, one dish has consistently piqued my interest: Nobu’s Spicy Tuna.
This dish dances on the palate, offering a perfect blend of heat and finesse. It can stand alone or shine alongside a few classic companions. Picture this: a barbecue spread featuring grilled shrimp, vibrant summer salads, and, of course, sushi rolls. This spicy tuna is not just a sidekick; it elevates the entire meal.
What is Nobu Spicy Tuna?
Nobu Spicy Tuna is a beloved signature dish from the renowned Nobu restaurants, co-founded by Chef Nobu Matsuhisa. This dish essentially brings together the freshest quality tuna with a spicy sauce that’s both bold and nuanced.
With a creaminess from the Kewpie mayonnaise and heat from the Sriracha, it isn’t difficult to see why this dish has captivated so many food lovers around the globe. It’s simple yet complex and speaks to the heart of playful culinary artistry.
The Ingredients
Before diving into the preparation, let’s gather our cast of characters. You’ll need:
Crispy Rice Cakes: 1 batch (makes 15 pieces)
For Both Toppings:
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced thinly
- 15 thin slices of jalapeño (optional garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon black sesame seeds (for garnish)
Nobu Spicy Tuna (Raw):
- 225g (7oz) sashimi-grade tuna (or salmon)
- 1 tablespoon Sriracha, adjust to desired spiciness
- 4 teaspoons Kewpie mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon cooking salt
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped green onions
- 1 teaspoon white sesame seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon black sesame seeds (divided)
Creamy Spicy Canned Tuna Topping:
- 360g (12oz) canned tuna in oil, drained
- 3 tablespoons Sriracha
- 4 tablespoons Kewpie mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (or rice vinegar)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher or cooking salt
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
- 2 teaspoons white sesame seeds (optional)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons black sesame seeds (divided)
- 1 teaspoon chili oil (for added heat)
- 1 tablespoon pickled ginger (optional)
Making Nobu Spicy Tuna
Crafting Nobu Spicy Tuna is more than just preparing a dish; it’s an experience. The freshness of the sashimi-grade tuna brings vibrancy, while each ingredient contributes uniquely to that tantalizing flavor profile. Don’t shy away from your inner chef; unleash your creativity! Here we go with the steps.
How to Make Nobu Spicy Tuna
Step 1: Preparing the Tuna
You want to start with the freshest fish possible. The best sushi-grade tuna has a vibrant, deep color, signaling quality and freshness.
- Choose Wisely: Regular grocery stores may not carry sushi-grade fish. Look for a reputable fishmonger or upscale grocery. The relationship with your fish seller can be invaluable. They’ll often provide insights into selecting the best cuts. Having been there myself, I recommend asking to see the packaging and asking questions about how it was sourced.
Step 2: Mixing the Sauce
This is where you bring the spice! In a small bowl, combine Sriracha, Kewpie mayonnaise, sesame oil, and salt.
- Balancing the Heat: Start with a little Sriracha, taste, then adjust. Everyone’s spice tolerance varies. You may find the perfect level of heat you crave!
Step 3: Chopping the Tuna
Dice your tuna into small, bite-sized pieces. This step is crucial for consistency and makes each bite enjoyable. You’ll want a nice, clean dice—no tearing, please!
- Keep It Cool: Place the diced tuna in a bowl and chill in the fridge for a few minutes. Keeping your tuna at a cool temperature preserves its quality and taste.
Step 4: Combining Ingredients
Now fold the diced tuna into your spicy dressing. Gently mix in the chopped green onions, white sesame seeds, and half of the black sesame seeds.
- Be Gentle: This isn’t the time to be heavy-handed. Aim to keep the tuna intact while mingling all those fantastic flavors.
Step 5: Plate It Up!
Serve the spicy tuna on top of your crispy rice cakes for that delightful crunch. An avocado slice on each adds creaminess, and jalapeños can provide a vibrant kick.
- Presentation Matters: Don’t just dump it on a plate! A little extra care in presentation can make the dish even more enticing.
Notes
Here are some helpful tips to take your experience to the next level:
- Source Quality Ingredients: The better the tuna, the better the dish.
- Adjust to Taste: Experiment with the spice levels. Some like it hot, while others prefer a milder flavor.
- Crispy Rice Cakes: Making your own gives you control. You can even infuse flavors.
- Fresh Herbs: Include cilantro or mint for a fresh twist if desired.
- Garnishes: Feel free to experiment with toppings! Think about adding mango or radish for fresh texture.
Storage Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers – let’s be real; it’s hard not to eat it all in one sitting – here’s how to store:
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container to keep flavors intact for up to a day.
- Leftover Rice Cakes: Keep them separate if you want to maintain crispness.
- Use Within a Day: Freshness is key—try to consume within 24 hours for the best experience.
Nutrition Information
From a nutritional standpoint, Nobu Spicy Tuna packs a punch:
- Calories: Approximately 250 (varying with toppings)
- Protein: Rich in protein thanks to tuna
- Fats: Healthy fats from the tuna and sesame oil
- Carbohydrates: Minimal, mostly from the rice cakes
Serving Suggestions
Here are five delicious ways to enjoy your Nobu Spicy Tuna. Each suggestion adds its unique flair:
- Sushi Rolls: Create maki rolls using sushi rice and nori. Trust me; this combo turns your spicy tuna into finger food.
- Taco Night: Use in soft corn tortillas, adding fresh avocado and salsa. Taco Tuesday, anyone?
- Lettuce Cups: Spoon the spicy tuna into butter lettuce leaves for a crunchy, refreshing bite.
- Rice Bowl: Serve over a bowl of rice with steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Appetizer Platter: Add to a charcuterie board with assorted fish and seafood items. It becomes a hit every time!
What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Nobu Spicy Tuna?
If you’re keen on mixing things up a bit, here are five substitutes that can bring a twist to this dish:
- Salmon: High-quality salmon can replace tuna. It gives a different texture but a rich flavor profile. Just ensure it’s sushi-grade.
- Canned Tuna: Canned albacore offers convenience. Make sure to pick high-quality, preferably packed in oil for more taste.
- Tofu: Firm tofu can replace fish for a plant-based twist. Marinate and prepare the same way!
- Crab Meat: Imitation crab or fresh crab meat can add sweetness and a new texture to the dish.
- Octopus: For the adventurous, cooked octopus is an exciting option that changes the dish’s dynamic altogether.
Nobu Spicy Tuna Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 batch crispy rice cakes makes 15 pieces
- 1 ripe avocado sliced thinly (or blend into avocado sauce)
- 15 thin slices of jalapeño optional garnish
- 1/2 teaspoon black sesame seeds for garnish
- Nobu Spicy Tuna Raw
- 225 g 7oz sashimi-grade tuna (or salmon)
- 1 tablespoon sriracha adjust to desired spiciness
- 4 teaspoons kewpie mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon cooking salt
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped green onions
- 1 teaspoon white sesame seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon black sesame seeds divided
- 360 g 12oz canned tuna in oil, drained
- 3 tablespoons sriracha
- 4 tablespoons kewpie mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice substitute rice vinegar if preferred
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher or cooking salt
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
- 2 teaspoons white sesame seeds optional
- 1 1/2 teaspoons black sesame seeds divided
- 1 teaspoon chili oil for added heat
- 1 tablespoon pickled ginger optional, for contrast in flavor
Instructions
- You want to start with the freshest fish possible. The best sushi-grade tuna has a vibrant, deep color, signaling quality and freshness.
- Choose Wisely: Regular grocery stores may not carry sushi-grade fish. Look for a reputable fishmonger or upscale grocery. The relationship with your fish seller can be invaluable. They’ll often provide insights into selecting the best cuts. Having been there myself, I recommend asking to see the packaging and asking questions about how it was sourced.
- This is where you bring the spice! In a small bowl, combine Sriracha, Kewpie mayonnaise, sesame oil, and salt.
- Balancing the Heat: Start with a little Sriracha, taste, then adjust. Everyone’s spice tolerance varies. You may find the perfect level of heat you crave!
- Dice your tuna into small, bite-sized pieces. This step is crucial for consistency and makes each bite enjoyable. You’ll want a nice, clean dice—no tearing, please!
- Keep It Cool: Place the diced tuna in a bowl and chill in the fridge for a few minutes. Keeping your tuna at a cool temperature preserves its quality and taste.
- Now fold the diced tuna into your spicy dressing. Gently mix in the chopped green onions, white sesame seeds, and half of the black sesame seeds.
- Be Gentle: This isn’t the time to be heavy-handed. Aim to keep the tuna intact while mingling all those fantastic flavors.
- Serve the spicy tuna on top of your crispy rice cakes for that delightful crunch. An avocado slice on each adds creaminess, and jalapeños can provide a vibrant kick.
- Presentation Matters: Don’t just dump it on a plate! A little extra care in presentation can make the dish even more enticing.
Notes
- Source Quality Ingredients: The better the tuna, the better the dish.
- Adjust to Taste: Experiment with the spice levels. Some like it hot, while others prefer a milder flavor.
- Crispy Rice Cakes: Making your own gives you control. You can even infuse flavors.
- Fresh Herbs: Include cilantro or mint for a fresh twist if desired.
- Garnishes: Feel free to experiment with toppings! Think about adding mango or radish for fresh texture.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
Nobu Spicy Tuna represents more than just a dish; it’s an experience! Each bite is a celebration of fresh flavors and culinary creativity. By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to impressing yourself and anyone lucky enough to join you at the table.
Whether you’re trying this dish alone or as part of a vibrant gathering, the journey of preparing it will be just as delightful as the eating. So, grab that sashimi-grade tuna, roll up your sleeves, and let’s make something delicious!
Let me know how your Nobu Spicy Tuna adventure turns out. Happy cooking!
