How to Smoke Tuna: A Simple and Delicious Recipe

Smoking albacore tuna is a delightful way to enhance its natural flavors, offering a simple yet exquisite dish that can be enjoyed in various meals. This recipe, originally from Traeger Grills, combines basic ingredients to create a versatile and delicious smoked fish. Here's a unique take on this beloved recipe.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup kosher salt
• 1 cup brown sugar
• Zest of 1 orange
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 6 (8 oz) albacore tuna fillets
• Nonstick cooking spray or olive oil, for greasing

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Brine:

   • In a small bowl, mix kosher salt, brown sugar, and the zest of one orange and one lemon.

2. Brine the Tuna:

   • In a large container, pack the brine onto the tuna fillets. Ensure that if the fillets are stacked, there is enough brine between each to prevent the flesh from touching.
   • Transfer to the refrigerator and let brine for 6 hours.

3. Rinse and Dry:

   • Remove the fillets from the brine and rinse thoroughly under cool water.
   • Pat the fillets dry and place them on a greased wire rack set over a baking sheet.
   • Return the fillets on the rack to the refrigerator for 30-40 minutes to allow them to dry further.

4. Preheat the Grill:

   • Set the Traeger grill to 180°F (82°C) and preheat with the lid closed for 15 minutes. For optimal flavor, use the Super Smoke setting if available.

5. Smoke the Tuna:

   • Place the fillets directly on the grill grates. Close the lid and cook for 3 hours at 180°F (82°C) using Super Smoke.

6. Finish Cooking:

   • Increase the grill temperature to 225°F (107°C) and continue cooking for about 1 hour more, or until the fish has developed a light brown color and flakes easily with a fork.

7. Serve and Store:

   • Remove the fish from the grill and enjoy immediately, or let it cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

"The Art of Smoking Albacore Tuna"

Smoking albacore tuna is not just a cooking method; it is an art form that brings out the exquisite flavors of this versatile fish. This technique, enhanced by the use of a Traeger grill, combines simplicity and sophistication to create a dish that can elevate any meal. The process begins with a basic brine made of kosher salt, brown sugar, and citrus zest, which infuses the tuna with subtle sweetness and a hint of zest.

The brining step is crucial as it helps to firm up the fish and impart flavor. After brining, the tuna fillets are thoroughly rinsed and dried to prepare them for smoking. The drying step in the refrigerator allows the surface of the fish to form a pellicle, which is essential for achieving that desired smoky flavor.

Using a Traeger grill at a low temperature with the Super Smoke feature ensures that the tuna absorbs the maximum amount of smoke. This slow cooking process at 180°F for three hours, followed by an hour at a higher temperature, results in a beautifully smoked albacore tuna that is tender and flavorful.

This smoked albacore tuna can be enjoyed fresh off the grill or stored for later use. Its delicate smoky flavor and firm texture make it perfect for a variety of dishes, from salads to sandwiches or even as a standalone appetizer. The simplicity of the ingredients and the method makes this recipe accessible, yet the result is a gourmet-quality dish that impresses every time.

Smoking albacore tuna with this method turns a simple fish into a culinary delight. Whether you're an experienced smoker or new to the process, this recipe offers a straightforward approach to creating a smoked fish masterpiece. Enjoy the unique, rich flavors of smoked albacore tuna, and savor the satisfaction of crafting something truly special.