How to Cut Sushi From a Piece of Ahi Tuna

Cut Ahi tuna for nigiri sushi.

Enjoy the clean, fresh taste from ahi tuna as part of a nigiri sushi roll. Nigiri, prepared by placing a slice of raw fish on top a portion of pressed sushi rice, provides interesting texture and flavor sensations for the tastebuds. Slicing raw fish, such as ahi tuna, requires patience and precision.

Things You'll Need

• Ahi tuna
• Cutting board
• Small knife
• Tweezers
• Paper towels
• Sushi knife
• Plastic wrap

Instructions

1. Place a piece of a fresh ahi tuna fillet on a cutting board. Ahi tuna suitable for sushi can be purchased from a fresh fish market and is never frozen. Examine the fish for any loose bones or skin remnants. Remove these with a small knife or pair of tweezers angled away from you.

2. Blot the fish dry with paper towels. Do not rub the fish, as this can mar the structure and form of the fillet.

3. Hold the tuna in one hand and an 8-inch-long sharp sushi knife in the other. A sushi knife is thinner and sharper than most kitchen knives and can cut into the soft flesh of the fish without marring the shape.

4. Hold the knife edge at a 45 degree angle on filet to make a 1/8- to 1/4-inch piece. Begin cutting the fish at a straighter angle, between 35 degrees to 40 degrees. Cut the piece of fish in one smooth motion until you reach the cutting board.

5. Repeat the process until you have cut the desired amount of fish. Wrap unused portions tightly with plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator.

Tips & Warnings

• Prior to cutting, place the fish in a refrigerator for several minutes to make the fillet firmer.

• Keep your fingers away from the knife as you cut to protect yourself from injury.

References

• Sushi Links: Sushi Lessons -- All About Fish: Ahi Tuna: 2007
• IMakeSushi: Basic Sushi: Sashimi: 2006