Spicy Tuna Plantain Tartare Stack

This Spicy Tuna & Plantain Tartare Stack is a stunning and flavorful dish that combines the silky texture of fresh tuna, sweet caramelized plantains, creamy avocado, and sushi rice into a beautiful layered tower. This dish is a fusion of sushi, poke, and tartare, offering a perfect balance of spicy, savory, sweet, and tangy flavors.

Ingredients

For the Sushi Rice (Base Layer):

• 1 cup sushi rice, cooked
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black sesame seeds (optional)

For the Spicy Tuna Tartare:

• 6 oz sushi-grade tuna, diced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon sriracha or chili paste
• 1 teaspoon lime juice
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped scallions
• ½ teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 teaspoon furikake seasoning (optional)

For the Caramelized Plantains Layer:

• ½ ripe plantain, sliced
• 1 teaspoon butter or coconut oil
• ½ teaspoon honey or maple syrup
• ¼ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

For the Avocado Mash (Top Layer):

• 1 ripe avocado, mashed
• 1 teaspoon lime juice
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For Garnish:

• Microgreens or arugula
• Thinly sliced radishes or scallions
• Drizzle of spicy mayo or eel sauce

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sushi Rice

1. Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. Cook according to package instructions, then mix with rice vinegar, sugar, and salt while still warm.
3. Let it cool to room temperature and stir in black sesame seeds if using.

Step 2: Make the Spicy Tuna Tartare

1. In a bowl, mix diced tuna with soy sauce, sesame oil, sriracha, lime juice, scallions, ginger, and furikake.
2. Toss to coat evenly and refrigerate for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Caramelize the Plantains

1. Heat butter or coconut oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add sliced plantains and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
3. Drizzle with honey or maple syrup, and a pinch of cinnamon if desired. Set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Avocado Mash

1. Mash avocado with lime juice, salt, and black pepper until smooth.

Step 5: Assemble the Stack

1. Use a cylinder food mold or a small round bowl to build the layers:
   • Base Layer: Press sushi rice into the mold.
   • Middle Layer: Add a layer of spicy tuna tartare.
   • Next Layer: Place caramelized plantains over the tuna.
   • Top Layer: Spread the avocado mash on top.
2. Carefully remove the mold and garnish with microgreens, radishes, and a drizzle of spicy mayo.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with crispy wonton chips or seaweed sheets for added crunch.
Serve with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger on the side.
Drizzle extra sriracha or spicy mayo for heat lovers.

Tips for the Best Tartare Stack

✔ Use Fresh, Sushi-Grade Tuna – For the best texture and flavor.
✔ Chill Before Serving – Helps the layers stay firm and the flavors blend.
✔ Press Each Layer Firmly – Keeps the stack from falling apart.
✔ Experiment with Flavors – Swap plantains for mango or pineapple for a tropical twist.
✔ Make It Low-Carb – Replace sushi rice with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.

Conclusion

This Spicy Tuna & Plantain Tartare Stack is visually stunning, incredibly flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make! It’s a showstopper dish for a dinner party, date night, or even a fancy solo treat. The balance of spicy tuna, sweet plantains, creamy avocado, and tangy sushi rice creates an unforgettable bite.

Would you like a vegetarian or salmon version?