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Tuna “Pastrami”

Tuna "Pastrami" recipe image
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.
Cooking Method:
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 8
Calories: 440.9
Dietary: Gluten-free
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
  • 1 cup Salt; kosher, coarse
  • 4 cloves Garlic; chopped
  • 1 1/4 pound Tuna fillet
  • 1 1/2 tablespoon Coriander seeds
  • 1 1/2 tablespoon Black peppercorns
Directions
  1. 1
    In a large glass bowl, combine 4 cups of water, the kosher salt, and chopped garlic until the salt is mostly dissolved.
  2. 2
    Submerge the tuna fillet in the brine, cover the bowl, and refrigerate for 2 hours, turning the tuna once halfway through.
  3. 3
    Place coriander seeds and black peppercorns on a sheet of wax paper or parchment paper.
  4. 4
    Use a heavy skillet or meat mallet to crush the spices into a coarse powder.
  5. 5
    Remove the tuna from the brine, discard the liquid, and pat the fish thoroughly dry with paper towels.
  6. 6
    Press the crushed spice mixture firmly onto both sides of the tuna fillet, ensuring an even coating.
  7. 7
    Preheat your broiler or an indoor ridged grill pan over medium-high heat, spraying with nonstick cooking spray.
  8. 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. 9
    Transfer the tuna to a plate and refrigerate for 2 hours, or until well chilled and firm.
  10. 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
Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/tuna-pastrami/