Description
Smoked tuna is a flavorful and protein-rich dish that adds a smoky depth to meals. This guide walks you through the process of making perfectly smoked tuna, from selecting the freshest fish to crafting the perfect marinade and mastering the smoking technique. Whether served as a main dish, in salads, or incorporated into creative recipes, homemade smoked tuna is a versatile and delicious addition to your kitchen
Ingredients
For the Marinade
¼ cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon grated ginger
2 tablespoons olive oil
Optional: black pepper, smoked paprika, or chili flakes for added depth
For Smoking
Fresh tuna fillets (yellowfin or albacore preferred)
Wood chips (applewood, cherrywood, or hickory)
Water (for soaking wood chips)
Instructions
Select firm, bright red tuna fillets with no strong fishy odor
Pat the fillets dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture
Trim any uneven edges or skin for even smoking
In a shallow dish, whisk together the marinade ingredients
Place tuna fillets in the dish, ensuring they are fully coated
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, turning halfway through for even flavor absorption
Preheat the smoker to 175°F
Soak wood chips in water for 30 minutes to create consistent smoke
Arrange tuna fillets on the smoker rack, leaving space between each piece for even airflow
Smoke for 2–4 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F
Rotate the fillets halfway through the process for even smoking
Let the smoked tuna rest for 10 minutes before slicing
Serve warm, chilled, or incorporate into salads, pasta, sandwiches, or wraps
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days
Notes
Use sushi-grade tuna for the freshest flavor and texture
Adjust marinade ingredients to match your preferred spice level
For a more intense smoky flavor, use a combination of wood chips like hickory and cherrywood
Smoked tuna can be frozen for up to 3 months—wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before storing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (excluding marinating time)
- Cook Time: 2–4 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Smoking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: smoked tuna, smoked fish recipe, yellowfin tuna, ahi tuna, smoked seafood, homemade smoked tuna, fish smoker recipe