Vegetarian Tuna Tataki

Experience the innovative twist of a *Vegetarian Tuna Tataki*, where juicy watermelon is transformed into a tantalizing, plant-based alternative to traditional tuna tataki. This recipe captures the essence of Japanese cuisine with a savory marinade of soy sauce, rice vinegar, mirin, and toasted sesame oil, infused with fresh ginger and garlic for an umami-packed flavor profile. Lightly seared to achieve a delicate caramelization, the watermelon develops a tender yet pleasantly meaty texture that's perfect for slicing thin and serving as tataki. Topped with toasted sesame seeds, vibrant green onions, and optional creamy avocado slices, this quick and easy dish is not only visually stunning but also bursting with bold flavors. Ready in under 35 minutes, it's a must-try for vegetarians, vegans, and adventurous foodies alike. Perfect as an appetizer or light main dish, this creation proves that plant-based dining can be both innovative and elegant.

Nutriscore Rating: 79/100

Prep Time:25 mins

Cook Time:10 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

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)

Directions

Step 1

Cut the watermelon into large rectangular blocks, approximately 1 inch thick, to mimic the shape of tuna fillets.

Step 2

Using a clean cloth or paper towel, gently pat the watermelon to remove excess moisture.

Step 3

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, mirin, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and lime juice to make the marinade.

Step 4

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.

Step 5

Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat and add the neutral oil.

Step 6

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.

Step 7

Remove the watermelon from the skillet and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 8

Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds evenly over the seared watermelon fillets and press gently to adhere.

Step 9

Slice the watermelon fillets into thin pieces, similar to how tuna tataki is served.

Step 10

Arrange the sliced watermelon tataki on a serving plate. Garnish with thinly sliced green onions and optional avocado slices.

Step 11

Serve immediately alongside additional soy sauce or dipping sauces of your choice.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(3519.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1579.2

Total Fat 56.7g	0%
Saturated Fat 7.1g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 8.7g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 1789.2mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 274.9g	0%
Dietary Fiber 26.7g	0%
Total Sugars 207.0g
Protein 29.6g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 416.2mg	0%
Iron 12.6mg	0%
Potassium 4669.4mg	0%

*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.

Source of Calories

Fat: 29.5%

Protein: 6.9%

Carbs: 63.6%