Tuna “Pastrami”

Servings: 8 Difficulty: Intermediate
Smoky-spiced seared tuna with a salty, savory crust
Tuna "Pastrami" recipe image

Tuna “Pastrami”

Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 8 Calories: 440.9

Description

This inventive dish mimics the deep, savory flavors of traditional pastrami using fresh tuna fillets. The fish is briefly cured in a salty garlic brine, then coated in a robust crust of crushed coriander and black peppercorns before being seared. The result is a tender, moist interior with a spicy, aromatic exterior that delivers a surprising twist on classic deli flavors. It serves beautifully as an elegant appetizer or a light, protein-rich main course. Perfect for summer gatherings or when you want to impress guests with a quick, sophisticated seafood preparation that feels indulgent yet healthy.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. In a large glass bowl, combine 4 cups of water, the kosher salt, and chopped garlic until the salt is mostly dissolved.
  2. Submerge the tuna fillet in the brine, cover the bowl, and refrigerate for 2 hours, turning the tuna once halfway through.
  3. Place coriander seeds and black peppercorns on a sheet of wax paper or parchment paper.
  4. Use a heavy skillet or meat mallet to crush the spices into a coarse powder.
  5. Remove the tuna from the brine, discard the liquid, and pat the fish thoroughly dry with paper towels.
  6. Press the crushed spice mixture firmly onto both sides of the tuna fillet, ensuring an even coating.
  7. Preheat your broiler or an indoor ridged grill pan over medium-high heat, spraying with nonstick cooking spray.
  8. Cook the tuna for 15-20 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the exterior is crusty and the interior is cooked to your desired doneness.
  9. Transfer the tuna to a plate and refrigerate for 2 hours, or until well chilled and firm.
  10. Slice the chilled tuna thinly against the grain and serve.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 8


Amount Per Serving
Calories 440.9kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 10.6g17%
Saturated Fat 2.4g12%
Cholesterol 63.8mg22%
Sodium 234082.4mg9754%
Total Carbohydrate 39.7g14%
Dietary Fiber 5.9g24%
Sugars 1.2g
Protein 47.6g96%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Keywords: tuna, pastrami, seared, spicy, coriander, peppercorns, garlic, cured, brine, appetizer, seafood, grilled, broiled, salmon, healthy, protein, deli, flavorful, quick, easy
Recipe Card powered by WP Delicious