This delightful fusion of rich tuna, crispy bacon, and a tangy-sweet teriyaki glaze is topped with sesame seeds for extra crunch. These skewers are perfect for a Japanese-inspired appetizer or a main dish with steamed vegetables or rice.
Preparation Time
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Ingredients (for four people)
- 500g tuna fillet, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 12 strips of bacon (thinly sliced)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (30 ml)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, toasted (15 ml)
- Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)
For the Teriyaki Sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (60 ml)
- 1/4 cup mirin (60 ml)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (15 ml)
- 1 tablespoon honey (15 ml)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger (5 ml)
Note: 1 tablespoon is circa 15 ml, and a teaspoon is circa 5 ml.
Preparation Method
Step 1: Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce
Combine soy sauce, mirin, sugar, honey, garlic, and ginger in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat until the mixture begins to simmer, stirring occasionally. Let it reduce slightly, about 5-7 minutes, until it thickens to a glaze consistency. Set aside.
Step 2: Wrap the Tuna
Wrap each tuna cube with a strip of bacon, securing it with a soaked wooden skewer (approximately 3-4 pieces per skewer).
Step 3: Pan-Sear the Skewers
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tuna-bacon skewers and sear each side until the bacon is crispy and the tuna is cooked to your desired level of doneness, about 2-3 minutes per side for medium-rare.
Step 4: Add Teriyaki Sauce and Sesame Seeds
Once the skewers are seared, brush them generously with the teriyaki sauce. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top for extra flavor and crunch.
Step 5: Serve
Transfer the skewers to a serving plate and drizzle with additional teriyaki sauce if desired. Serve hot.
Tips and Tricks
- Bacon Wrapping: Keep the bacon wrapped tightly to keep the tuna intact while searing.
- Tuna Doneness: If you prefer the tuna rare in the center, reduce the searing time slightly.
- Skewers: Soaking the wooden skewers prevents them from burning during cooking.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside steamed jasmine rice and stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
- Garnish with thinly sliced scallions or nori strips for an extra Japanese flair.
Wine Pairing
A crisp, dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Japanese sake pairs wonderfully with savory, umami-rich bacon and teriyaki sauce flavors. Try a light white like a Melnik or Chardonnay for a Bulgarian wine option.
Nutritional Information (Per serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 900 mg
Storage Suggestions
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. They can be reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave, but be mindful that the tuna may become overcooked upon reheating.
About the Tuna Wrapped in Bacon Skewers
This Japanese-inspired dish combines the natural richness of tuna with the smokiness of crispy bacon. The teriyaki sauce adds a sweet-savory glaze, balancing the bold flavors, while the sesame seeds bring a pleasant nuttiness to the dish.
Cultural Context
Tuna is a staple in Japanese cuisine, often enjoyed raw as sushi or sashimi. This dish, however, brings a fusion twist by incorporating bacon and a teriyaki glaze, blending traditional Japanese elements with Western cooking techniques for a delightful, flavorful experience.
