Tuna in a green tea crust with coconut milk rice and broccoli in Hoisin sauce

Green Tea Crusted Tuna with Coconut Milk Rice and Broccoli in Hoisin Sauce Recipe

*A sophisticated dish, full of flavors and textures, perfect for an elegant dinner or a special occasion. This recipe combines delicate fish with creamy rice and crunchy vegetables, offering not just a visual feast but also a culinary indulgence.*

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 2

Ingredients

- 200 g fresh tuna (in chunks)
- 3 tablespoons sesame seeds (preferably black for visual contrast)
- 1 tablespoon green tea leaves (ground or whole leaves)
- Sesame oil (for frying)
- 1 cup brown rice
- 400 ml light coconut milk
- 1 garlic clove (minced)
- 1 tablespoon Hoisin sauce
- 1 broccoli (cut into florets)

Ingredient details

- Fresh tuna: Ensure the tuna is of the highest quality, with a pinkish flesh and a moist appearance. This is the main source of protein in this dish and can be substituted with salmon or other white fish if preferred.
- Brown rice: Brown rice is a healthier option than white rice, being rich in fiber and nutrients. It cooks slower, but its flavor is truly distinctive.
- Coconut milk: This adds creaminess and an exotic taste to the dish. If you want a lighter version, you can use light coconut milk as specified in the recipe.
- Hoisin sauce: A sweet and savory sauce that adds depth and complexity to the dish. It is an excellent choice to complement the broccoli.

Step-by-step instructions

1. Preparing the rice:
- In a medium pot, add the brown rice, 400 ml of light coconut milk, and one cup of water. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
- Once it starts to boil, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 30 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.

2. Preparing the broccoli:
- Meanwhile, prepare the broccoli. In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of sesame oil over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until golden and fragrant.
- Add the broccoli florets and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they are crunchy and bright green.
- Finally, add the Hoisin sauce and stir well to coat the broccoli. Let it simmer on low for another 2 minutes, then remove from heat.

3. Preparing the tuna:
- In a bowl, mix the sesame seeds, ground green tea, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Roll the piece of tuna in this mixture, ensuring it is evenly coated on all sides.
- In a clean skillet, heat a little sesame oil over medium-high heat.
- Sear the tuna for 30 seconds on each side, or until well browned but still pink in the center (for a juicy texture).

4. Assembling the dish:
- Once the rice is ready, divide it between two plates. Top with a serving of sautéed broccoli and slices of seared tuna.
- You can garnish with a few extra sesame seeds for a more attractive appearance.

Helpful tips

- Tuna: If you prefer a well-done tuna, you can sear it for a few more seconds, but be careful not to let it dry out.
- Vegan option: You can replace the tuna with marinated and fried tofu, keeping the rest of the recipe the same.
- Side dishes: This recipe pairs wonderfully with a cabbage salad or a cucumber salad in vinegar to add a note of freshness.

Pairings and drinks

This dish pairs perfectly with a dry white wine or cold green tea, which will complement the delicate flavors of the tuna and coconut milk rice. Additionally, a fresh lemonade will provide a pleasant and refreshing contrast.

Nutritional benefits

This recipe is packed with healthy proteins from tuna, healthy fats from sesame oil and coconut milk, and fiber from brown rice, making it an excellent nutritional choice. Broccoli adds a healthy dose of essential vitamins and minerals.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use white rice? Yes, but the cooking time will be shorter. Follow the instructions on the package.
- What other sauces can I use instead of Hoisin? Soy sauce or teriyaki sauce can be excellent alternatives.
- Can it be prepared in advance? Tuna is best prepared fresh, but the rice and broccoli can be cooked in advance and reheated at serving.

This green tea crusted tuna recipe with coconut milk rice and broccoli in Hoisin sauce will turn any meal into an unforgettable experience. Enjoy every bite, savoring the combination of flavors and textures that will delight your taste buds!