Amberjack Tartare with Mango Sauce: A Delightful Second Course
Amberjack tartare with mango sauce is a sophisticated and refreshing dish perfect for special occasions. The combination of tender amberjack fish, zesty lemon, and the sweetness of mango creates an extraordinary balance of flavors. Served with crispy, toasted bread and a touch of aromatic herbs, this dish is sure to impress your guests.
Serves: 4
Category: Main Course
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Amberjack (Ricciola) | 400g |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 10g |
| Fine salt | 1 tsp |
| Black pepper | 1 tsp |
| Lemon zest | 1 |
| Bread (preferably crusty) | 70g |
| Mango | 150g |
| Orange juice | 1 |
| Lemon juice | 1 |
| Fine salt | 1 tsp |
| Black pepper | 1 tsp |
| Brown sugar | 1 tsp |
| Ground turmeric | 1 tsp |
| Ground chili pepper | ½ tsp |
| Fresh ginger | 5g |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 350 |
| Protein | 28g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Carbohydrates | 24g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugars | 15g |
| Sodium | 420mg |
| Vitamin C | 50% of DV |
| Omega-3 fatty acids | 2g |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Toasted Bread
To begin, cut the bread into diagonal slices, each about half a centimeter thick. Use a rolling pin to flatten them slightly, ensuring they toast evenly. Place the bread slices on a baking tray and toast them in the oven at 250°C (482°F) for approximately 5 minutes or until they are golden and crisp. Set aside once done.
Step 2: Make the Mango Sauce
While the bread is toasting, move on to preparing the mango sauce. Start by peeling the mango using a vegetable peeler. Opt for a mango that is not overly ripe to ensure it holds its shape during cooking. Once peeled, cut the mango into thin strips and then dice it into small 1 cm cubes.
Next, peel the fresh ginger and slice it thinly. Squeeze the juice of one lime to add a citrusy kick to the sauce.
In a small saucepan, combine the orange juice, lime juice, diced mango, and ginger slices. Season with a pinch of fine salt, brown sugar, ground chili pepper, and turmeric. Stir everything together, then cook over low heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the sauce begins to dry out, add a few drops of water to maintain its consistency. The mango should soften and blend with the other flavors, creating a rich, aromatic sauce.
Once the sauce is ready, remove the ginger slices, and blend the mixture until smooth. This will create a silky mango sauce to complement the tartare.
Step 3: Prepare the Amberjack Tartare
For the tartare, start by finely chopping the amberjack fillets. The texture should be delicate, so use a sharp knife to create small, even pieces. Transfer the finely chopped fish into a mixing bowl.
Add the zest of one lemon to the fish, along with fine salt, black pepper, and extra virgin olive oil. Mix everything gently, ensuring the flavors are well incorporated.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
To assemble the dish, use a 7 cm (about 2.75 inches) diameter ring mold. Place the mold in the center of a plate and carefully spoon the amberjack tartare into it, pressing down lightly to form a compact layer. Once the mold is filled, carefully remove it, leaving a neat mound of tartare.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Garnish the tartare with freshly chopped chives, cut using kitchen scissors, and a little extra lemon zest for a refreshing finish. Arrange the crispy, toasted bread slices around the tartare for added texture and serve the mango sauce on the side or drizzled over the tartare.
Tips for the Perfect Amberjack Tartare with Mango Sauce:
- Choose Fresh Fish: The key to a great tartare is using the freshest amberjack available. Ensure the fish is sushi-grade and very fresh to enhance the dish’s flavor and texture.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier sauce, increase the amount of chili pepper. Alternatively, you can omit the chili for a milder version.
- Chill the Fish: For the best texture, refrigerate the chopped amberjack for about 30 minutes before assembling the tartare. This helps it firm up and makes it easier to shape.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, so serve it as soon as it’s assembled for the most vibrant flavors and crisp textures.
Amberjack tartare with mango sauce is a beautiful and vibrant dish that pairs well with crisp white wines or light, citrusy cocktails. Perfect for a special dinner or an elegant appetizer, this recipe will impress your guests with its sophisticated flavors and stunning presentation.
