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Seared Tuna Roll Recipe
Rahat

Seared Tuna Roll with Basil Aioli

Restaurant-quality seared tuna sushi rolls featuring perfectly seared yellowfin tuna, creamy basil aioli, and fresh vegetables wrapped in seasoned sushi rice. This elegant fusion dish combines traditional Japanese techniques with Mediterranean flavors for an impressive homemade sushi experience.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian, Japanese
Calories: 285

Ingredients
  

For the Seared Tuna
  • 6 oz sushi-grade yellowfin or bigeye tuna
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon coarse sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
For the Basil Aioli
  • 1/2 cup high-quality mayonnaise
  • 2 teaspoons wasabi paste
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced
  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, blanched and chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh spinach leaves, blanched
  • Pinch of sea salt
For Assembly
  • 2 cups prepared sushi rice, cooled
  • 2 sheets nori seaweed, halved
  • 1 large avocado, sliced thin
  • 1/2 English cucumber, julienned
  • Additional sesame seeds for garnish

Equipment

  • Bamboo sushi mat
  • Cast-iron skillet
  • Sharp chef's knife
  • Small food processor
  • large bowl

Method
 

  1. Blanch basil and spinach leaves in boiling water for 30 seconds, then immediately plunge into ice water. Squeeze out excess water and chop roughly. In a food processor, combine mayonnaise, wasabi, garlic, olive oil, blanched herbs, and salt. Blend until completely smooth and vibrant green. Refrigerate while preparing other components.
  2. Remove tuna from refrigeration 15 minutes before cooking to bring closer to room temperature. Pat completely dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper, then press sesame seeds into both sides.
  3. Heat cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until you see wisps of smoke. Add sesame oil and immediately place tuna in pan. Sear exactly 1 minute per side without moving the fish. The cooked portion should extend about 1/8 inch into the tuna while center remains pink.
  4. Transfer tuna to cutting board and let rest 3 minutes before slicing into 1/4-inch strips. The tuna should be golden outside with a ruby-red center. Slice against the grain with a sharp knife.
  5. Place bamboo mat on work surface. Keep a bowl of warm water nearby for wetting hands. Have all ingredients organized and easily accessible for assembly.
  6. Place half sheet of nori on bamboo mat, glossy side down. With wet hands, spread a thin layer of sushi rice over lower two-thirds of nori, leaving 1-inch border at top. Arrange tuna, avocado, and cucumber in a line across the center of rice.
  7. Using bamboo mat, lift the edge closest to you and roll over the filling, tucking tightly. Continue rolling while pulling mat away from you. Apply gentle, even pressure to create a tight roll. Seal the edge with a dab of water.
  8. Using a sharp, clean knife, cut each roll into 6-8 pieces, wiping knife between cuts. Arrange on serving plate and garnish with additional sesame seeds. Serve immediately with basil aioli, soy sauce, and pickled ginger.

Nutrition

Calories: 285kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 24gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 680mgPotassium: 420mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2g

Notes

For best results, use sushi-grade tuna from a reputable fishmonger. The basil aioli can be made up to 3 days ahead and improves in flavor after chilling. Never sear tuna more than 2 hours before serving. Completed rolls are best enjoyed within 24 hours but optimal within 2-4 hours of preparation.
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