Grilled Tuna Belly Recipe (2024)

Notes and substitutions

• Tuna belly: You can use an entire strip of tuna belly or cut them into small serving portions. Tuna steaks are an option but can be tough and dry when overcooked since they have less fat. Salmon or mackerel are oily fish alternatives that you can use.

• Calamansi (or Lemon): Calamansi is a citrus fruit used in sauces, marinades, desserts, or as garnish squeezed over Pancit Canton or Pancit Bihon. The flavor is like a cross between a lime and mandarin orange. Lemon is always a good alternative.

Step 1: Make the marinade by combining ⅓ cup soy sauce, ⅓ cup lemon juice, 1 tablespoon ginger, 4 garlic cloves, ¼ cup sugar, 1 tablespoon Sriracha, ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, and ground pepper to taste. Using a blender allows the flavors to meld together. Taste and adjust as needed.

Step 2: Marinate for 1 to 8 hours in the fridge. Marinating too long in an acidic mixture may change the texture of the fish.

Step 3: Combine 1 cup tomatoes, 1 cup mangoes, 1 jalapeño, ½ red onion, ¼ cup cilantro, ½ lime juice, 1 teaspoon sugar, and 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper, then give it a taste. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Step 4: Preheat the oven to 450° F (230° C). Arrange the tuna fillets evenly spaced on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil (for easy cleanup).

Step 5: Drizzle with some oil. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes, depending on the thickness.

Step 6: Boil the leftover marinade in a saucepan until slightly thickened, then add butter. The sauce will be used for basting and serving.

Step 7: Remove the tuna from the oven and baste it with the sauce. Broil on high for a few minutes until nicely charred.

Step 8: Spoon the remaining sauce on them.

Sprinkle some fried garlic on top. Serve with tomato-mango salad and steamed white rice for a satisfying meal.

What does tuna belly taste like?

Tuna is a meaty fish with a delicate flavor. The belly portion is tender with a buttery texture due to its fat content. It absorbs marinades well and stays moist after cooking.

What is a Filipino barbecue?

Filipino barbecue, known as "inihaw," consists of meat or seafood marinated in soy sauce, calamansi, garlic, and sugar. It is typically grilled over charcoal and often served with a "sawsawan" or a dipping sauce made with vinegar, soy sauce, calamansi, and chilies.

Can you cook tuna belly in an air fryer?

Yes! Line the basket with aluminum foil and arrange the tuna fillets in a single layer. Air fry at 400° F (200° C) for about 10 minutes, depending on the thickness. Baste them with the sauce halfway through.

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