If you’re searching for a show-stopping appetizer that’s as fun to make as it is to eat, you’ll absolutely fall for Spicy Tuna Tartare on Crispy Wonton Chips. This vibrant dish combines silky, sashimi-grade tuna tossed in a bold, zesty sauce with the irresistible crunch of freshly fried wonton chips. Each bite is a delightful mix of spicy, savory, and fresh flavors, with creamy avocado and optional microgreens or radish on top for the ultimate finishing touch. Whether you’re hosting friends, planning a date night in, or simply treating yourself, this restaurant-worthy recipe is guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Spicy Tuna Tartare on Crispy Wonton Chips lies in its carefully chosen ingredients. Each component brings something special to the table—whether it’s heat, tang, crunch, or color. Here’s what you’ll need, along with helpful tips for making each element shine:
- Sashimi-grade tuna (8 oz, finely diced): Use the freshest, highest-quality tuna you can find for the best flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Soy sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds a salty, umami backbone to the tartare.
- Sesame oil (1 tablespoon): Brings a nutty aroma and depth that pairs beautifully with the tuna.
- Sriracha (1 tablespoon): Gives the dish its signature heat; adjust to your spice preference.
- Rice vinegar (1 teaspoon): A splash of acidity brightens everything up.
- Lime juice (1 teaspoon): Adds a fresh, citrusy zing that lifts the flavors.
- Green onion (1 tablespoon, finely chopped): For a pop of color and gentle onion flavor.
- Fresh ginger (1 teaspoon, grated): Offers warmth and a subtle kick.
- Sesame seeds (1 teaspoon): Toasted or raw, they deliver a delicate crunch and toasty flavor.
- Wonton wrappers (12–16): These fry up perfectly crisp and golden—ideal for scooping up the tuna.
- Vegetable oil (for frying): Use a neutral oil like canola or peanut for the crispiest chips.
- Avocado (1, diced): Creamy and cooling, it balances the spice and adds richness.
- Salt (to taste): Just a pinch enhances all the other flavors.
- Microgreens or sliced radish (optional, for garnish): These add color and a final fresh flourish.
How to Make Spicy Tuna Tartare on Crispy Wonton Chips
Step 1: Prepare the Spicy Tuna Mixture
Start by making the star of your Spicy Tuna Tartare on Crispy Wonton Chips: the tartare itself. In a mixing bowl, combine the diced tuna with soy sauce, sesame oil, sriracha, rice vinegar, lime juice, green onion, ginger, sesame seeds, and a pinch of salt. Gently fold everything together until the tuna is evenly coated and glistening with flavor. Cover and refrigerate the mixture while you move on to the chips—this keeps the fish cold, fresh, and lets the flavors mingle.
Step 2: Cut and Fry the Wonton Chips
Grab your stack of wonton wrappers and cut each one diagonally into triangles. Heat about an inch of vegetable oil in a heavy skillet over medium heat; you want it hot but not smoking. Fry the wonton triangles in batches for 30–45 seconds per side until they puff up and turn golden brown. Keep a close eye—they cook quickly! Drain the fried chips on paper towels and sprinkle lightly with salt while they’re still warm for maximum flavor.
Step 3: Dice the Avocado
Cut the avocado in half, remove the pit, and dice the flesh into small cubes. The creamy avocado not only cools down the spicy tuna but also adds a luscious texture when you bite in. Set aside, ready for assembly.
Step 4: Assemble the Spicy Tuna Tartare on Crispy Wonton Chips
Now for the fun part! Arrange your crispy wonton chips on a serving platter. Spoon a generous mound of the chilled spicy tuna mixture onto each chip, followed by a few cubes of avocado. This is where your dish really comes to life—each chip is a tiny, edible work of art.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Top each assembled chip with a scattering of microgreens or a slice of radish for a burst of color and freshness. Serve your Spicy Tuna Tartare on Crispy Wonton Chips right away, while the chips are still shatteringly crisp and the tuna is perfectly chilled. Enjoy every single bite!
How to Serve Spicy Tuna Tartare on Crispy Wonton Chips
Garnishes
A simple scatter of microgreens or thinly sliced radish adds instant sophistication and freshness to your Spicy Tuna Tartare on Crispy Wonton Chips. For an extra punch, try a drizzle of spicy mayo, wasabi aioli, or a dusting of extra sesame seeds. These small touches make the dish feel restaurant-quality and add a pop of color that’s perfect for entertaining.
Side Dishes
This appetizer shines alongside light, crisp sides like cucumber salad, pickled ginger, or even a tangy seaweed salad. If you’re building a full spread, pair your Spicy Tuna Tartare on Crispy Wonton Chips with other Asian-inspired bites such as edamame, miso soup, or a bright citrusy slaw to keep things balanced and refreshing.
Creative Ways to Present
Amp up your presentation by arranging the chips in a circular pattern on a platter or serving each as a passed canapé at your next gathering. For a fun twist, layer the spicy tuna tartare in a martini glass and serve the crispy wonton chips on the side for dipping. However you plate them, these little bites are guaranteed to wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover spicy tuna tartare, transfer it to an airtight container and store in the coldest part of your fridge. For the best quality and food safety, enjoy within 24 hours. Keep the wonton chips in a separate, airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crunch.
Freezing
It’s best not to freeze the assembled dish, as raw tuna and avocado don’t thaw well and the chips will lose their crispness. If you must, you can freeze just the diced tuna (before mixing with sauce) for up to one month—thaw overnight in the fridge and only mix fresh before serving.
Reheating
Wonton chips can be crisped up in a 325°F (160°C) oven for 3–5 minutes if they get a bit soft, but the spicy tuna tartare should always be served cold and fresh. Avoid reheating the tartare itself, as it’s meant to be enjoyed raw and chilled for optimal texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use another type Appetizer
Absolutely! While Spicy Tuna Tartare on Crispy Wonton Chips is classically made with tuna, you can swap in other sashimi-grade fish such as salmon or yellowtail. Just be sure it’s sushi-quality and handled with the same care.
How do I know if my tuna is sashimi-grade?
Look for tuna labeled “sashimi-grade” or “sushi-grade” from trusted fishmongers or specialty grocers. The flesh should have a clean, ocean-fresh scent and a deep, vibrant color. When in doubt, ask your fishmonger for guidance.
Are there any shortcuts for making the wonton chips?
If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought wonton chips or even sturdy tortilla chips in a pinch. Still, nothing beats the warm, ultra-crispy texture of freshly fried wonton wrappers for this dish!
What’s the best way to make this ahead for a party?
You can prep the tuna mixture and fry the wonton chips a few hours in advance, keeping the tuna chilled and the chips in an airtight container. Assemble just before serving to keep the chips crunchy and the tartare cool.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free tamari in place of soy sauce and look for gluten-free wonton wrappers, or substitute with gluten-free rice crackers. Always double-check every ingredient if you’re serving guests with gluten sensitivities.
Final Thoughts
Once you try Spicy Tuna Tartare on Crispy Wonton Chips, you’ll see why it’s a favorite for special occasions and casual nights alike. It’s fresh, bold, and so much fun to share. Gather your ingredients, invite a few friends, and let every crunchy, spicy bite be a reason to celebrate. Enjoy!
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Spicy Tuna Tartare on Crispy Wonton Chips Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Experience the perfect blend of spicy, tangy, and crispy with this Spicy Tuna Tartare on Crispy Wonton Chips recipe. This Asian Fusion appetizer features finely diced sashimi-grade tuna mixed with flavorful ingredients like soy sauce, sesame oil, sriracha, and lime juice, served atop homemade crispy wonton chips accented with creamy avocado and fresh garnishes. Quick to prepare and bursting with fresh flavors, it makes an elegant starter for any occasion.
Ingredients
Tuna Tartare Mixture
- 8 oz sashimi-grade tuna, finely diced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon sriracha
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped green onion
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
- Salt to taste
Wonton Chips
- 12–16 wonton wrappers
- Vegetable oil for frying
Garnishes
- 1 avocado, diced
- Optional microgreens or sliced radish for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Tuna Tartare Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the finely diced sashimi-grade tuna with soy sauce, sesame oil, sriracha, rice vinegar, lime juice, finely chopped green onion, grated fresh ginger, sesame seeds, and a pinch of salt. Gently fold the ingredients together to blend the flavors without mashing the tuna. Cover the bowl and refrigerate to chill while you prepare the wonton chips.
- Cut the Wonton Wrappers: Lay the wonton wrappers flat and slice them diagonally into triangle shapes, which will become the crispy chips.
- Fry the Wonton Chips: Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. When the oil reaches about 350°F (175°C), fry the wonton triangles in batches, cooking each side for 30 to 45 seconds or until golden brown and crisp. Use a slotted spoon to remove the chips and drain them on paper towels. Immediately sprinkle lightly with salt while they are still warm.
- Assemble the Tartare on Chips: Place a small spoonful of the spicy tuna tartare mixture on each crispy wonton chip. Add a few pieces of diced avocado on top for creaminess.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish each chip with optional microgreens or thinly sliced radish to add fresh color and texture. Serve the tartare-topped chips immediately to enjoy their crisp freshness.
Notes
- For extra flavor, drizzle a touch of spicy mayo or wasabi aioli over the tartare before serving.
- Ensure the tuna is very cold and freshly cut to maintain the best texture and flavor.
- Use high-quality sashimi-grade tuna to safely enjoy the raw fish flavor.
- Wonton chips are best served fresh to retain their crunch.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying, No-Cook
- Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4–5 topped chips
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 430mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
