Sashimi-Grade Tuna Block Recipe: Take It to the Next Level

Sashimi-Grade Tuna Block Recipe: Take It to the Next Level

          Elevate your meals with this next-level sashimi-grade Tuna Block recipe. Learn how to serve and prepare premium tuna like a chef, perfect for sushi, poke, or gourmet seared tuna bowls at home.

What Is a Tuna Block?

         A Tuna Block is a thick, boneless cut of sashimi-grade tuna, perfectly portioned and frozen at peak freshness. It's versatile and ready to slice for sashimi, sushi, poke bowls or lightly seared dishes. With the right techniques and flavor upgrades, you can take this premium cut to the next level, even from the comfort of your home.

How to Prepare Sashimi-Grade Tuna Block 

Step 1: Proper Thawing

          Thaw your frozen Tuna Block slowly in the fridge overnight to maintain its texture and safety. If you’re in a hurry, place it (sealed) in cold water for 30-45 minutes.

          Pro tip: Never thaw in hot water or microwave, it can ruin the texture.

Option 1: Tuna Sashimi Platter (Classic Japanese Style)

          A Tuna Sashimi Platter is a beautifully arranged dish featuring thin slices of sashimi-grade tuna, served raw and typically enjoyed with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger. It’s a popular choice in Japanese cuisine and is prized for its clean, fresh taste and melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Ingredients:

  • 1 sashimi-grade Tuna Block (thawed)
  • Wasabi paste
  • Soy sauce
  • Pickled ginger
  • Optional: sliced cucumber, shredded daikon, or edible flowers

Instructions:

  1. Slice the Tuna Block into ¼-inch thick slices using a sharp knife.
  2. Arrange neatly on a chilled plate.
  3. Serve with soy sauce, wasabi and ginger on the side.

           Next-level twist: Drizzle a few drops of yuzu juice or truffle oil for a modern, luxurious touch.

Option 2: Spicy Tuna Poke Bowl (Hawaiian-Japanese Fusion)

           A Spicy Tuna Poke Bowl is a vibrant and flavorful Hawaiian-inspired dish made with cubed raw tuna tossed in a spicy mayo-based sauce, served over a bed of rice, and topped with a variety of fresh ingredients.

Ingredients:

  • 1 Tuna Block, diced into cubes
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1 tsp sriracha or chili oil
  • 1 tsp rice vinegar
  • Green onions, sesame seeds, avocado, cucumber and seaweed
  • Steamed Japanese rice or quinoa

Instructions:

  1. Mix soy sauce, sesame oil, sriracha and vinegar to make the marinade.
  2. Toss the tuna cubes in the sauce and chill for 10 minutes.
  3. Build your bowl: add rice, tuna, veggies and toppings.
  4. Finish with extra sesame seeds or crispy onions.

           Next-level twist: Add mango slices or a creamy spicy mayo drizzle.

Option 3: Seared Tuna with Garlic Soy Glaze

            Seared Tuna with Garlic Soy Glaze is a delicious, restaurant-style dish made by quickly searing sashimi-grade tuna and finishing it with a flavorful glaze made from soy sauce, garlic, and other seasonings. It’s a fusion of Japanese and Asian-inspired flavors, rich, savory, slightly sweet, and perfect for those who love bold seafood dishes.

Ingredients:

  • Tuna Block, cut into thick steaks
  • 1 tbsp oil (neutral or sesame)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Sauce: 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp mirin, 1 tbsp brown sugar, 1 tsp grated garlic

Instructions:

  1. Season tuna steaks with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat oil in a pan; sear tuna for 30 seconds per side (outside seared, inside rare).
  3. Mix sauce ingredients and simmer for 1-2 minutes.
  4. Pour sauce over sliced tuna and serve with garlic rice or salad.

          Next-level twist: Torch the seared edges for smoky flavor or top with tobiko (fish roe).

What to Serve with Tuna Block Dishes

           When serving Tuna Block dishes, whether as sashimi, seared steaks, or poke bowls, the right sides can enhance both flavor and presentation. Classic pairings include steamed Japanese rice, miso soup, and seaweed salad, which add texture and umami balance. For sashimi or sushi-style plating, served with soy sauce, wasabi, pickled ginger, and sliced cucumber or daikon radish. If you’re preparing a poke bowl, pair your tuna with avocado, edamame, mango, sesame seeds, and a light soy-sesame dressing. For a Filipino-Japanese fusion, garlic rice or kimchi offers a bold, flavorful contrast. These side dishes bring harmony and variety to every tuna block meal, whether you're aiming for clean and traditional or creative and modern.

         With a few chef-level techniques and premium-grade tuna, you can turn your kitchen into a high-end sushi bar. Whether you’re slicing it for classic sashimi, tossing it in a poke bowl, or searing it for bold flavor, a sashimi-grade tuna block can truly take your seafood dish to the next level. Impress your family, treat yourself, or wow your customers with this versatile and luxurious ingredient.

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