Crispy Fried Tuna

Fried tuna coated in panko breadcrumbs provides a crispy and flavorful outer layer while preserving the tender and juicy interior. It’s a delicious dish that can be served as an appetizer, main course, or as part of a sushi-inspired meal.

What is this Fried Tuna made of?

1. Tuna Steaks : Tuna steaks are thick slices of tuna fish, typically obtained from the loin section of the fish. Sushi-grade or fresh tuna is recommended for this recipe to ensure the best quality and flavor. Tuna steaks are known for their firm texture and rich flavor, and health benefits. Tuna is an excellent source of vitamin B12, an essential vitamin needed to make DNA. Vitamin B12 also helps you to form new red blood cells and prevent the development of anemia.
2. Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are Japanese-style breadcrumbs that have a light and airy texture. They are made from crustless bread and are coarser compared to regular breadcrumbs. Panko breadcrumbs are commonly used in frying to create a crispy and crunchy coating.
3. All-Purpose Flour: All-purpose flour is a versatile type of flour used in many cooking and baking applications. In this recipe, it is used as part of the breading process to help the breadcrumbs adhere to the tuna steaks. The flour also helps create a barrier between the fish and the frying oil, resulting in a crispier coating.
4. Eggs: Beaten eggs serve as a binding agent in the breading process. They help the flour and breadcrumbs adhere to the tuna steaks, creating a crispy and well-coated exterior during frying.
5. Salt and Pepper: Salt and pepper are used to season the tuna steaks before and after the breading process. They enhance the natural flavors of the fish and add a touch of seasoning.
6. Vegetable Oil for Frying: Vegetable oil is a neutral-flavored oil with a high smoke point, making it suitable for deep frying. It is used to submerge the tuna steaks during frying, resulting in a crispy and golden exterior.
7. Soy Sauce or Dipping Sauce of Your Choice: Soy sauce or a dipping sauce of your preference can be served alongside the Crispy Fried Tuna. These sauces can provide additional flavor and can be used for dipping the fish to add more savory or tangy notes.

By using these ingredients together, you can create a delicious and crispy fried tuna dish. The combination of the firm and flavorful tuna steaks, the crispy panko coating, and the optional sauces or lemon wedges will result in a satisfying meal.

How to make crispy fried tuna?

Start by preparing the breading station. Place the flour in one shallow dish, beat the eggs in another dish, and spread the panko breadcrumbs in a third dish. Season the flour with salt and pepper.

Pat the tuna dry with paper towels. Dredge each tuna steak in the flour, shaking off any excess. Dip the flour-coated tuna steak into the beaten eggs, ensuring they are fully coated. Transfer the tuna to the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere the breadcrumbs to the fish.

Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or skillet to a medium-high heat. Carefully place the breaded tuna into the hot oil, ensuring it is not overcrowded in the pan. Fry for about 2-3 minutes per side or until the breadcrumbs turn golden brown and the tuna reaches your desired level of doneness.

Once cooked, remove the tuna from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Let the Crispy Fried Tuna rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with the dipping sauce!

Is it OK to cook tuna rare?

Yes, it is common and perfectly fine to cook tuna to a rare or medium-rare level. Tuna is often enjoyed when it is seared or grilled on the outside while still pink and slightly raw on the inside. This cooking method allows the tuna to retain its natural flavors, tenderness, and moisture.

When cooked to rare or medium-rare, the interior of the tuna will be mostly raw, with a slightly cooked outer layer. The center of the fish will typically be pink or reddish, while the exterior will have a light sear or grill marks.

It’s important to note that when consuming tuna rare or medium-rare, it’s crucial to use high-quality, sushi-grade or fresh tuna that has been handled and stored properly. This helps ensure the safety and quality of the fish.

What do you eat with fried tuna?

Crispy Fried Tuna can be enjoyed in various ways and paired with a variety of side dishes and accompaniments. Here are a few options for what you can eat with fried tuna:

1. Salad: Serve the fried tuna on a bed of fresh mixed greens or a salad of your choice. Here are some good pairings:
   • Green Goddess Salad
   • Mango, Avocado and Blue Cheese Salad
2. Rice or Grains: Pair the fried tuna with steamed rice, quinoa, or other cooked grains. It provides a neutral base that can soak up any accompanying sauces or dressings.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables such as asparagus, or zucchini can be a delicious and nutritious side dish for fried tuna. Here is the recipe for Parmesan Baked Asparagus.
4. Salsa or Relish: Top the fried tuna with a fresh salsa or relish for added flavor. Try a pineapple salsa, mango relish, or a simple tomato and onion salsa. These bright and tangy accompaniments can enhance the overall taste of the dish. Here is Easy Homemade Salsa Recipe.
5. Dipping Sauces: Prepare dipping sauces to accompany the fried tuna. Options like soy sauce, ponzu sauce, wasabi mayo, or a spicy aioli can provide additional flavor and depth.
6. Citrus Fruits: Serve the fried tuna with wedges of citrus fruits, such as oranges or grapefruits. Here is a nice Citrus Caprese Salad recipe that is perfect for Fried Tuna!