How To Grill Tuna Collar

Grilling tuna collar is a delicious and flavorful way to enjoy this often overlooked cut of fish. Tuna collar, also known as hamachi kama, is the collar or neck portion of the tuna and is prized for its rich, fatty meat. Grilling it is a simple and delicious way to bring out its natural flavors and create a memorable meal. In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to grill tuna collar to perfection.

Selecting the Tuna Collar

When it comes to grilling tuna collar, selecting a high-quality piece of fish is essential. Look for tuna collar that is fresh, with firm and moist flesh. The collar should have a rich, pink color and a fresh, oceanic smell. If possible, purchase the tuna collar from a reputable fishmonger or seafood market to ensure its quality.

Preparing the Tuna Collar

Before grilling, it's important to prepare the tuna collar properly. Start by patting the collar dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. Then, season the collar with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. You can also add other seasonings such as garlic powder, paprika, or cayenne pepper for an extra kick of flavor.

Preparing the Grill

Prepare a grill for direct grilling over medium-high heat. If using a charcoal grill, allow the coals to heat until they are covered with a light ash. If using a gas grill, preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Brush the grill grates with oil to prevent the tuna collar from sticking.

Grilling the Tuna Collar

Place the prepared tuna collar on the grill, skin-side down. Grill the collar for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the flesh is opaque and easily flakes with a fork. Avoid overcooking the tuna collar, as it can become dry and lose its delicate texture.

Serving the Grilled Tuna Collar

Once the tuna collar is grilled to perfection, it's time to serve and enjoy. Transfer the grilled collar to a serving platter and garnish with fresh chopped herbs such as parsley or cilantro. Squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the grilled collar to add a bright, citrusy flavor. Grilled tuna collar pairs well with a variety of side dishes such as steamed rice, grilled vegetables, or a crisp salad.

Tips for Grilling Tuna Collar

• Marinade: Consider marinating the tuna collar in a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil for added flavor before grilling.
• Direct Heat: Grilling the tuna collar over direct heat helps to sear the exterior while keeping the interior moist and tender.
• Serving Sauce: Serve the grilled tuna collar with a side of soy sauce or a spicy aioli for dipping.

Grilling tuna collar is a simple yet impressive way to enjoy this flavorful cut of fish. With the right preparation and cooking techniques, you can create a memorable meal that showcases the natural richness and texture of tuna collar. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or simply looking to expand your culinary repertoire, grilling tuna collar is a delicious option to consider.