What Is Tartare? Tuna, Steak, Salmon & Chicken Tartare Recipes

Tartare

Tartare is a French dish that’s all about showcasing raw or finely chopped ingredients. The magic happens when you mix them with fresh herbs, mustard, and sometimes a rich egg yolk. It’s usually paired with toasted bread or a light salad, making it feel fancy but approachable. Fun fact: the name comes from the Tatar people in Central Asia, who inspired this unique dish!

What Is the Difference Between Ceviche and Tartare?

This one’s easy! Ceviche uses acidic juices, like lime or lemon, to “cook” the fish, giving it a firmer texture. Tartare keeps the fish or meat raw and enhances it with flavorful seasonings or dressings.

Tuna Tartare

What Is Tuna Tartare?

Tuna tartare is like the seafood cousin of beef tartare. It’s made with raw tuna diced into small cubes and dressed with a blend of soy sauce, ginger, sesame oil, and lime juice. It’s a fresh and elegant dish often seen at fancy restaurants, but don’t let that scare you—it’s surprisingly easy to make at home.

Tuna Tartare Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pound fresh, sushi-grade tuna

• 1 teaspoon finely grated ginger

• 1 ½ tablespoons soy sauce

• 2 tablespoons lime juice

• 1 ½ tablespoons sesame oil

• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)

• 1 green onion, finely sliced (for garnish)

How to Make Tuna Tartare

〰 Prep the Tuna: Cut the tuna into small cubes and put it in a bowl.

〰 Mix the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the ginger, soy sauce, lime juice, and sesame oil.

〰 Combine Everything: Pour the sauce over the tuna and mix it gently.

〰 Serve: Spoon the tuna into bowls and sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions.

Tips:

〰 Leftovers: Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days.

〰 Freezing: You can freeze unused tuna for up to two months, but don’t freeze already-prepared tartare.

Steak Tartare

What Is Beef Tartare (Steak Tartare)?

Beef tartare, or steak tartare, is made from raw beef that’s finely chopped and mixed with flavorful ingredients like capers, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard. It’s often served in a neat little round shape with an egg yolk on top for extra richness.

Steak Tartare Recipe

Ingredients:

• Lean steak (sirloin or tenderloin works great)

• Capers

• Cornichons (tiny pickles)

• Shallots

• Worcestershire sauce

• Fresh parsley

• Egg yolks (optional)

How to Make Steak Tartare

〰 Mix the Flavors: Dice the capers, cornichons, shallots, and parsley, then mix them with Worcestershire sauce and mustard.

〰 Add the Beef: Chop the beef finely and fold it into the mixture. Season with salt.

〰 Serve: Shape the mixture into rounds and top with an egg yolk if you like. Serve with bread or crackers.

Salmon Tartare

What Is Salmon Tartare?

Salmon tartare is fresh, light, and zesty. It’s made by mixing diced raw salmon with lemon juice, mustard, and other seasonings. The lemon juice gives the edges a slightly “cooked” feel while keeping the inside soft and tender.

Salmon Tartare Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ pounds skinless salmon (diced small)

• 4 teaspoons finely chopped shallots

• 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 tablespoons chopped chives

• 1 tablespoon whole-grain mustard

• 1 teaspoon Tabasco sauce (optional)

How to Make Salmon Tartare

〰 Keep It Fresh: Work with cold salmon to maintain its freshness.

〰 Mix the Dressing: Combine the shallots, vinegar, olive oil, chives, mustard, and Tabasco sauce. Mix this with the salmon.

〰 Serve: Plate it immediately with some toasted bread or salad on the side.

Chicken Tartare

What Is Chicken Tartare?

Chicken tartare is an adventurous dish made with raw chicken, finely chopped and mixed with seasonings, herbs, and sometimes mayonnaise. It’s not as common, but it’s worth a try if you’re up for something unique.

Chicken Tartare Recipe

Ingredients:

• 500 g chicken breast

• 100 g finely diced shallots

• 50 g capers

• Fresh parsley (chopped)

• Mayonnaise

• Quail eggs (optional, for garnish)

How to Make Chicken Tartare

〰 Prepare the Chicken: Dice it finely, then mix it with shallots, capers, parsley, and a bit of mayo.

〰 Serve: Shape it into rounds and garnish with quail eggs or microgreens.

FAQs

How many calories in tuna tartare?

Tuna tartare usually has about 150–200 calories per serving. It’s low in calories but packed with protein, making it a great option for a light meal.

What is tartare sauce used for?

Tartare sauce is a creamy condiment often served with seafood like fried fish or crab cakes. Its tangy flavor pairs perfectly with the delicate taste of seafood.

How many calories in salmon tartare?

Salmon tartare contains around 200–250 calories per serving. It’s not just tasty but also loaded with healthy omega-3 fats.

Can you eat raw tuna in tuna tartare?

Yes, but it must be sushi-grade tuna or high-quality fish meant for raw consumption. Always buy from a trusted supplier to ensure safety.

Is tartare healthy?

Tartare can be a healthy dish when made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. It’s high in protein and healthy fats while being low in carbs.

How to serve tartare?

Tartare is often served with toasted bread, crackers, or a salad. You can also add garnishes like herbs, capers, or a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor.

How many calories in beef tartare?

Beef tartare has about 200–250 calories per serving, depending on the recipe. It’s rich in protein with very few carbs.

How many calories in chicken tartare?

Chicken tartare usually contains around 150–200 calories per serving. Just make sure to use the freshest chicken possible for safety.