Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ahi Tuna Sushi Stack combines the freshest, most flavorful sushi-grade tuna with creamy avocado and a crunchy element, all layered together to create a mouthwatering dish. It’s perfect for sushi lovers who want an easy, deconstructed version of traditional sushi. The spicy tuna paired with the subtly sweet sushi rice makes every bite irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving something unique, this recipe brings all the delicious flavors of sushi to your home without the need for rolling or complex techniques.

Ingredients

For the Sushi Rice
1 cup sushi rice
1 1/4 cup water
2 tbsp rice vinegar
2 tsp honey or granulated sugar

For the Spicy Tuna
1 tbsp oil
2 small tuna steaks

For the Assembly
1 avocado, mashed
Spicy mayo
Fried wontons or tortilla chips
Furikake Japanese Multi-Purpose Seasoning

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Sushi Rice: Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a saucepan, add the rinsed rice and water. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Simmer for about 15 minutes, then remove from heat and let it sit for 10 minutes. In a small bowl, combine rice vinegar and honey (or sugar). Gently fold the vinegar mixture into the cooked rice. Let the rice cool to room temperature.
2. Prepare the Spicy Tuna: Heat the oil in a pan over medium heat. Lightly sear the tuna steaks for about 1-2 minutes per side, leaving the center rare. Once cooked, let the tuna cool, then finely chop it.
3. Make the Spicy Tuna Mixture: In a bowl, combine the chopped tuna with spicy mayo. Mix until the tuna is evenly coated.
4. Assemble the Stack: On a serving plate, start with a layer of the sushi rice. Top with a layer of mashed avocado. Add the spicy tuna mixture on top of the avocado. Sprinkle with furikake seasoning for added flavor.
5. Add the Crunch: Garnish the stack with fried wontons or tortilla chips for a crunchy texture.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe serves 2-4 people, depending on portion sizes.
• Time: Total prep and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes.

Variations

• Add more vegetables: You can add thinly sliced cucumber, radishes, or even pickled ginger to add a fresh and tangy bite.
• Substitute tuna: If you’re not a fan of tuna, you can use salmon or other fish varieties.
• Vegan option: Replace the tuna with marinated tofu or other plant-based protein alternatives.

Storage/Reheating

This dish is best served immediately after assembling. However, you can store leftover spicy tuna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day. The sushi rice can also be refrigerated for a day but may lose some of its texture. If storing for longer, it is recommended to keep the rice and tuna mixture separate and assemble just before serving. Avoid refrigerating the mashed avocado, as it tends to brown quickly.

FAQs

How do I make sushi rice without a rice cooker?

If you don’t have a rice cooker, you can cook sushi rice on the stovetop. Simply rinse the rice thoroughly, combine it with the appropriate amount of water, and cook it covered on low heat for 15 minutes. Let it sit off the heat for 10 minutes before mixing in the vinegar and sweetener.

Can I use frozen tuna for this recipe?

Yes, if you’re using frozen tuna, make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge before cooking it. It’s important that the tuna is sushi-grade to ensure safety.

What is spicy mayo?

Spicy mayo is typically made by mixing mayonnaise with sriracha sauce and a little bit of lemon or lime juice. It gives a creamy and spicy kick to your dish.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prepare the rice and spicy tuna mixture ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble the sushi stack right before serving to maintain the freshness of the avocado and the crunch of the chips.

How do I get sushi-grade tuna?

Sushi-grade tuna can be found at fish markets or specialty grocery stores. Look for fresh, high-quality tuna that is labeled as sushi-grade or safe to eat raw.

What is furikake?

Furikake is a Japanese seasoning made with a combination of dried fish, seaweed, sesame seeds, and sometimes sugar. It adds a savory umami flavor to sushi and other dishes.

How do I make this dish spicier?

To increase the heat, you can add more sriracha to the spicy mayo or incorporate diced jalapeños into the tuna mixture.

Can I use other types of vinegar?

Yes, while rice vinegar is traditional for sushi rice, you can use apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar if necessary. Just be mindful that the flavor may change slightly.

What other toppings can I use?

You can top your sushi stack with sliced scallions, sesame seeds, or even a drizzle of soy sauce or eel sauce for extra flavor.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure the fried wontons or chips you use are gluten-free. You can also opt for gluten-free tortilla chips.

Conclusion

The Ahi Tuna Sushi Stack is a fresh, vibrant, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for sushi lovers or anyone seeking a new and exciting meal. With its combination of spicy tuna, creamy avocado, and tangy sushi rice, it’s a dish that’s as satisfying as it is impressive. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or a main course, it’s sure to be a hit. Enjoy the delicious flavors of sushi without the hassle of rolling!

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