Ahi Tuna Marinade

Quick Asian-inspired marinade for fresh ahi tuna. Balanced soy, citrus, and ginger flavors perfect for seared tuna or poke-style preparations.

Marinating time: 15-20 min

IngredientsClear All

• 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari)
• 1 tbsp fresh lime juice (about half a lime)
• 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
• 1 tsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
• 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
• Optional: 1 tsp honey or brown sugar to balance the acidity
• Optional: Red pepper flakes or sriracha for heat

Instructions

1. Prepare the marinade: In a bowl or shallow dish, whisk together the soy sauce, lime juice, sesame oil, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, and optional sweetener.

2. Marinate: Add the tuna, turning to coat. Refrigerate for 15-20 minutes. Do not exceed 30-60 minutes, as the citrus will begin to "cook" the fish (like ceviche) and change the texture.

3. Use: Remove tuna from marinade and pat dry before searing, or slice and serve raw for poke-style preparations.

Notes

Storage: Use immediately after marinating. Do not store marinated raw fish.

Uses:

• Marinade for seared ahi tuna steaks
• Base for ahi poke bowls
• Ahi sake salad preparation

Tips:

• Do not over-marinate - the acid will start to "cook" the fish and change texture
• Maximum marinating time: 30-60 minutes
• Fresh ginger is essential - don't substitute dried
• Pat tuna dry after marinating for best searing results
• Use sashimi-grade tuna only

Variations:

• Add 1 tsp honey or brown sugar for a sweeter profile
• Add red pepper flakes or sriracha for heat
• Substitute lemon juice for lime juice
• Add a splash of mirin for traditional Japanese flavor

Source

Recipe suggestion from Gemini AI