Vegetarian Tuna Tataki
Experience a bold, plant-based twist on a seafood classic with this Vegetarian Tuna Tataki recipe, featuring juicy watermelon transformed into tender, meaty "fillets." Marinated in a flavorful blend of soy sauce, rice vinegar, mirin, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic, the watermelon absorbs a rich umami profile before being seared to perfection for a caramelized finish. Topped with toasted sesame seeds and vibrant green onions, this dish is as stunning as it is delicious. Perfectly suited for vegan and vegetarian diets, it offers a creative, sustainable alternative to traditional tuna tataki without sacrificing texture or taste. Ready in under 35 minutes, this vegan tuna tataki pairs beautifully with avocado slices and soy dipping sauce, making it a delightful appetizer or light entrée. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or craving something unique, this watermelon tuna tataki is sure to impress!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 small (about 7-8 pounds) Watermelon
- 3 tablespoons Soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Mirin
- 1 teaspoon Sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon, grated Fresh ginger
- 1 clove, minced Garlic
- 2 tablespoons Toasted sesame seeds
- 2 stalks, thinly sliced Green onions
- 1 whole, juiced Lime
- 1 medium, sliced for garnish (optional) Avocado
- 2 teaspoons Neutral oil (e.g., grapeseed oil)
Instructions
Cut the watermelon into large rectangular blocks, approximately 1 inch thick, to mimic the shape of tuna fillets.
Using a clean cloth or paper towel, gently pat the watermelon to remove excess moisture.
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, mirin, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and lime juice to make the marinade.
Place the watermelon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Let the watermelon marinate for at least 15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat and add the neutral oil.
Once the skillet is hot, gently sear each side of the watermelon fillets for about 1 to 2 minutes until a slight caramelization occurs. Avoid overcooking to maintain a pleasantly meaty texture.
Remove the watermelon from the skillet and set aside to cool slightly.
Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds evenly over the seared watermelon fillets and press gently to adhere.
Slice the watermelon fillets into thin pieces, similar to how tuna tataki is served.
Arrange the sliced watermelon tataki on a serving plate. Garnish with thinly sliced green onions and optional avocado slices.
Serve immediately alongside additional soy sauce or dipping sauces of your choice.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1579 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 56.7 g | 73% | |
| Saturated Fat | 7.1 g | 36% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 8.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1789 mg | 78% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 274.9 g | 100% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 26.7 g | 95% | |
| Total Sugars | 207.0 g | ||
| Protein | 29.6 g | 59% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 416 mg | 32% | |
| Iron | 12.6 mg | 70% | |
| Potassium | 4669 mg | 99% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
