What You’ll Need:
- Freshly caught tuna
- High-quality olive oil
- Sea salt
- Pepper
- Airtight glass jars
- Optional: herbs and spices for flavoring
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Tuna
Start by cleaning and filleting the freshly caught tuna. Remove the skin, bones, and any dark-colored flesh. Rinse the fillets thoroughly under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel.
Step 2: Season the Tuna
Sprinkle the fillets generously with sea salt and pepper. You can also add herbs and spices of your choice to enhance the flavor. Ensure that the seasoning is evenly spread on both sides of the fish.
Step 3: Pack the Fish in Jars
Place the seasoned tuna fillets into clean and airtight glass jars. Make sure to layer them neatly without squishing them together. Leave a bit of headspace at the top to allow for the addition of olive oil.
Step 4: Add Olive Oil
Pour high-quality olive oil into the jars, completely covering the tuna fillets. Ensure that there are no air bubbles trapped within. The oil acts as a preservative and prevents the fish from spoiling.
Step 5: Seal the Jars
After adding the oil, tightly seal the jars. This will prevent any oxygen from entering and causing spoilage. Store the jars in a cool and dark place.
Step 6: Wait and Store
Allow the tuna to marinate in the oil for at least 24 hours. During this time, the flavors will meld together, resulting in a more delicious preservation. After marinating, store the jars in the refrigerator. The tuna can last for several weeks if properly sealed and refrigerated.
Step 7: Enjoy!
Your homemade tuna preserved in oil is now ready to be enjoyed! Use it in salads, sandwiches, pasta dishes, or any recipe that calls for tuna. The sweet and tender taste will elevate your meals to a whole new level of scrumptiousness.
So, next time you’re lucky enough to catch some fresh tuna, don’t let it go to waste. By preserving it in oil, you can savor the incredible flavors for weeks to come. Give this recipe a try and let your taste buds rejoice!