If you’re tuning in for a culinary adventure, let’s dive into the world of Nobu Tuna Tartare Recipe. This dish, made famous by the iconic Nobu restaurant chain, elevates simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece that is perfect for any occasion. With its fresh flavors and elegant presentation, this tartare will impress your guests at dinner parties or serve as a delightful starter for special celebrations.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 5 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this stunning appetizer without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Fresh Flavor: The combination of ginger, lime, and sesame oil creates a vibrant taste that perfectly complements the sushi-grade tuna.
- Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as an appetizer, a light lunch, or even as a topping for rice bowls. It fits seamlessly into various meal occasions.
- Healthy Choice: Packed with lean protein and healthy fats, this dish is not only delicious but also nutritious.
Tools and Preparation
To create your Nobu Tuna Tartare, having the right tools on hand makes all the difference. Below are some essential items that will help you craft this exquisite dish.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or fork
- Ring mold (optional)
- Serving plate
Importance of Each Tool
- Sharp knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts on the tuna, enhancing its texture and presentation.
- Mixing bowl: A good mixing bowl allows you to easily whisk together your dressing without spilling.
- Ring mold: While optional, a ring mold helps create an eye-catching presentation of your tartare.
Ingredients
Gather these fresh ingredients to make your Nobu Tuna Tartare Recipe memorable:
For the Dressing
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger root
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1 1/2 tablespoons tamari or soy sauce
- 1 1/2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes
For the Tuna
- 1 pound sushi-grade fresh ahi tuna
- 1 large scallion (thinly sliced, for topping)
- 1 tablespoon white sesame seeds (for garnish)
How to Make Nobu Tuna Tartare Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Gather all your ingredients. This means washing your hands and chopping your tuna into small cubes. The size matters. Want it too chunky? You’ll lose that melt-in-your-mouth experience. Too fine? You might drown out the delicate flavor.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a bowl, whisk together the grated ginger, lime juice, tamari or soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, and chili flakes. This dressing is where the magic starts. Feel free to adjust proportions—more lime if you crave acidity or add a little more chili for heat.
Step 3: Combine Tuna with Dressing
Gently fold the cubed tuna into the dressing. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes. It’s just long enough for the flavors to meld without cooking the tuna. This is your moment to play with balance—taste, adjust, and make it your own.
Step 4: Plate Your Dish
Using a ring mold or simply a spoon, carefully place your tuna mixture on a plate. Press it down a bit but don’t squish it; you want to keep those lovely cubes intact.
Step 5: Garnish
Finally, sprinkle the scallions and white sesame seeds on top. This adds an appealing crunch and aesthetic appeal. Now step back and admire your work before serving!
With this easy Nobu Tuna Tartare Recipe, you’ll create an unforgettable dish that showcases fresh flavors and sophisticated style!
How to Serve Nobu Tuna Tartare Recipe
Nobu Tuna Tartare is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet night in, these serving suggestions will elevate your experience.
On Crispy Wontons
- Top crispy wonton chips with the tuna tartare for a delightful crunch. This adds texture and makes for an enticing appetizer.
With Avocado Slices
- Serve the tartare on sliced avocado for a creamy contrast. The richness of the avocado complements the fresh tuna beautifully.
As Part of a Sushi Platter
- Include the tuna tartare in a sushi platter alongside rolls and sashimi. This presentation is ideal for sushi lovers and offers variety.
With Microgreens
- Garnish with microgreens for a fresh touch. These tiny greens not only look great but also add an aromatic flavor profile.
In Lettuce Wraps
- Serve in butter lettuce leaves for a refreshing bite. This option is light and perfect for those looking to keep it healthy.
Paired with Pickled Ginger
- Add pickled ginger on the side to enhance flavors. Its tanginess balances the richness of the sesame oil and tuna.
How to Perfect Nobu Tuna Tartare Recipe
To achieve the ultimate Nobu Tuna Tartare, follow these tips that ensure perfection in every bite.
- Choose high-quality tuna: Fresh, sushi-grade ahi tuna is essential for this recipe. It ensures safety and enhances flavor.
- Mind your cuts: Dice the tuna into small, uniform cubes. Consistent sizing helps maintain the dish’s texture and overall presentation.
- Experiment with seasoning: Adjust the lime juice and chili flakes according to your taste. Personalizing these elements can make all the difference.
- Chill before serving: Keep your ingredients chilled until you’re ready to serve. This keeps the tartare fresh and enhances its flavors.
- Use a ring mold: For an elegant presentation, use a ring mold when plating. This creates a beautiful tower that impresses guests.
Best Side Dishes for Nobu Tuna Tartare Recipe
Pairing side dishes with Nobu Tuna Tartare can enhance your meal experience significantly. Here are some excellent options to consider:
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar complements the tartar’s flavors well.
- Miso Soup: Traditional miso soup adds warmth and depth, making it a comforting side.
- Edamame: Lightly salted edamame provides protein and acts as a healthy snack alongside the main dish.
- Seaweed Salad: A tangy seaweed salad brings umami notes that pair perfectly with tartare.
- Pickled Vegetables: Assorted pickled veggies offer tanginess that pairs nicely with the rich flavors of the tartar.
- Sushi Rice: Serve warm sushi rice as a base to soak up flavors from the Nobu Tuna Tartare, enhancing each bite.
- Tempura Vegetables: Crispy tempura vegetables add crunch while providing an exciting flavor contrast.
- Chilled Soba Noodles: Lightly dressed soba noodles are refreshing and can act as a lovely companion to your tartare dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing the Nobu Tuna Tartare Recipe, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are a few to watch out for:
- Using non-sushi grade tuna: Always choose sushi-grade tuna to ensure freshness and safety. Regular tuna is not suitable for raw dishes and could lead to foodborne illness.
- Ignoring ingredient proportions: The balance of flavors is key in this recipe. Be cautious with your tamari, lime juice, and sesame oil proportions to avoid overpowering the delicate tuna.
- Overmixing the tuna: When combining the tuna with the dressing, be gentle. Overmixing can break down the cubes and result in a mushy texture instead of maintaining that perfect bite.
- Skipping marination time: Allowing the tuna to marinate for about 10 minutes is crucial. This short resting period helps meld the flavors without cooking the fish.
- Neglecting garnishes: Don’t forget to add scallions and sesame seeds at the end. They bring both flavor and texture, enhancing the overall presentation of your dish.
Refrigerator Storage
- Storage duration: Store your Nobu Tuna Tartare in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours for optimal freshness.
- Container type: Use an airtight container to prevent any odors from affecting the tartare’s flavor.
Freezing Nobu Tuna Tartare Recipe
- Freezing duration: It’s best not to freeze tuna tartare as it can alter its texture. However, if necessary, consume within one month.
- Container type: If freezing, use a vacuum-sealed bag or airtight container to minimize freezer burn.
Reheating Nobu Tuna Tartare Recipe
- Oven: Not recommended for this dish as it should be served cold.
- Microwave: Avoid using a microwave; this will cook the tuna and ruin its texture.
- Stovetop: Best enjoyed fresh; reheating is not advisable since it should be served raw.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Nobu Tuna Tartare special?
Nobu Tuna Tartare stands out due to its unique combination of fresh ingredients and bold flavors that create a delightful experience with every bite.
Can I substitute ingredients in Nobu Tuna Tartare Recipe?
Yes! You can customize this recipe by substituting tamari with soy sauce or honey with agave syrup based on your preferences.
Is there a way to make Nobu Tuna Tartare spicier?
Absolutely! You can increase the chili flakes in your Nobu Tuna Tartare Recipe or even add a dash of sriracha for an extra kick.
How should I serve Nobu Tuna Tartare?
Serve your tartare chilled on a plate, garnished with scallions and sesame seeds. It pairs well with crispy wonton chips or cucumber slices.
Final Thoughts
The Nobu Tuna Tartare Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. Its fresh ingredients create an elegant appetizer that impresses at any gathering. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or adjust spice levels for a personal touch—get creative and enjoy this culinary masterpiece!

Nobu Tuna Tartare Recipe
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves approximately 4
Description
Experience the elegance of Nobu Tuna Tartare, a dish that transforms fresh, simple ingredients into a stunning culinary delight. This recipe, inspired by the renowned Nobu restaurant, combines sushi-grade tuna with vibrant flavors of ginger, lime, and sesame oil to create a refreshing appetizer that will wow your guests at any gathering. With minimal preparation time and versatile serving options, this tartare is perfect for dinner parties or casual lunches alike. Whether served on crispy wontons or paired with creamy avocado slices, this dish captures the essence of fine dining right in your home.
Ingredients
- 1 pound sushi-grade fresh ahi tuna
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger root
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1 1/2 tablespoons tamari or soy sauce
- 1 1/2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes
- 1 large scallion (thinly sliced)
- 1 tablespoon white sesame seeds
Instructions
- Dice the sushi-grade tuna into small cubes and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together grated ginger, lime juice, tamari (or soy sauce), sesame oil, honey, and chili flakes to create the dressing.
- Gently fold the cubed tuna into the dressing and let marinate for about 10 minutes.
- Using a ring mold or spoon, plate the tartare mixture carefully without squishing it.
- Garnish with scallions and white sesame seeds before serving.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: Japanese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 100g
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Leave a Comment