Tuna Gravlax with Radish and Avocado Salad
About 1/2 hour, plus at least 6 hours to cure
Tuna bellies, or toro, are prized in sushi bars for their velvety texture. That said, you can also use tuna loin in this recipe; it will simply be a little lean. Make sure that your knife is very sharp--it's the key to slicing through the soft fish easily without tearing it.
How to Make It
Step 1
1
Combine 2 tbsp. salt and the sugar in a small bowl. Rub both sides of tuna belly with salt mixture. Set on a plate, cover, and chill at least 6 hours and up to overnight.
Step 2
2
Briefly rinse fish with cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Using a very sharp knife, thinly slice belly diagonally across the grain, pulling the knife through the fish rather than sawing. Divide slices among 4 to 6 small salad plates, spreading them out in a single layer. Cover each with plastic wrap and, using the bottom of a liquid measuring cup, gently pound fish into a thin layer.
Step 3
3
Thinly slice radishes, then cut into thin matchsticks. Transfer to a small bowl and add avocado, chives, oil, and lemon juice. Season with remaining 1/2 tsp. salt and toss until well combined. Spoon some salad onto each plate.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons plus 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
2 teaspoons sugar
1 1/2 pounds tuna belly, any bones gently removed with tweezers
3 radishes, trimmed
1/2 firm-ripe avocado, peeled and diced
2 tablespoons chopped chives
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Directions
Step 1
1
Combine 2 tbsp. salt and the sugar in a small bowl. Rub both sides of tuna belly with salt mixture. Set on a plate, cover, and chill at least 6 hours and up to overnight.
Step 2
2
Briefly rinse fish with cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Using a very sharp knife, thinly slice belly diagonally across the grain, pulling the knife through the fish rather than sawing. Divide slices among 4 to 6 small salad plates, spreading them out in a single layer. Cover each with plastic wrap and, using the bottom of a liquid measuring cup, gently pound fish into a thin layer.
Step 3
3
Thinly slice radishes, then cut into thin matchsticks. Transfer to a small bowl and add avocado, chives, oil, and lemon juice. Season with remaining 1/2 tsp. salt and toss until well combined. Spoon some salad onto each plate.
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