Video:How to Buy and Clean Tuna

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Transcript:How to Buy and Clean Tuna

Hi, I'm Coreen with Shakes Bakes and right now we're going to talk about how to buy and clean tuna.

Varieties of Tuna

There are several kinds of tuna. The most common to the fresh fish market is the yellow fin, also known as Ahi. Bluefin tuna is one of tastiest yet most threatened fish in the ocean. Select an alternative to this endangered species. Farm raised tuna are often raised in tanks or net enclosures. Wild caught tuna are harvested directly from their natural habitat.

Look for a Meaty Aroma When Buying Tuna

Because of the rapid spoilage rate, tuna needs to be very fresh. Make sure your fish has a meaty aroma. Steaks should be firm and dense. There should be no rainbow sheen on the fish.

Although they range in color depending on the variety, prime raw tuna should have red to dark red flesh, very much like raw beef. Sometimes you might find a darker brown area which is edible and has a much stronger flavor. These can be trimmed away by the fish monger. Keep in mind that thicker cuts stay juicier while cooking.

Clean Tuna Using Salted Water

To clean, dissolve 1/3 cup of salt with 3 cups of water, and we are going to sit our tuna in the solution for one minute. Never use fresh water as this may turn your tuna white and mushy. This is great to do as soon as you get your fish home to prepare for cooking or storage, no more than 72 hours after.

Drip dry and then blot lightly with a paper towel. Store by bagging your tuna then place that bag in a bag of crushed ice. Place in the fridge for up to 3 days, 5 for a fresh catch. Replace ice as it melts. So that's how you buy and clean tuna.