A Tuna Saku Block is a rectangular block of tuna shaped for clean, even slices, the same format chefs use for sushi and sashimi. Thaw it, slice it, and you can have a restaurant-style tuna dinner on the table in about 15 minutes.
Fall is a good time to cook tuna. October is when blackfin tuna become more prevalent in the waters around the Florida Keys, and cooler evenings make a quick seared or poke dinner feel just right. This guide covers what a saku block is, how to thaw and slice it, and three fast dinners to make with it.
What Is a Tuna Saku Block?
A saku block is a rectangular block of fish cut for slicing. "Saku" is the Japanese word for this block shape.
Our Tuna Saku Block comes freshly frozen in an individual vacuum-sealed package, and you can order it one block at a time. The rectangular shape is made for easy portioning in sushi and sashimi, and it is just as convenient for seared steaks or tataki. Because the shape is even, every slice comes out the same size, which makes the plate look as good as it tastes.
How Do You Thaw a Tuna Saku Block?
Thaw it slowly in the refrigerator.
- Cut open the vacuum bag and set the block on a plate lined with a paper towel.
- Cover it loosely and refrigerate for several hours or overnight, until it is fully thawed.
- Pat the block dry with paper towels before you cook or slice. A dry surface gives you a better sear and cleaner cuts.
Never thaw tuna on the counter or in warm water, and keep it cold until the moment you slice it.
How Do You Slice a Tuna Saku Block Cleanly?
Use a very sharp, long knife and slice the block while it is cold.
- Find the grain. Fine lines run along the block. Cut across those lines for tender slices.
- Use one long, smooth pull from the heel of the blade to the tip. Do not saw back and forth.
- Wipe the blade with a damp towel between cuts so each slice stays clean.
- Match the cut to the dish. Slice about 1/4 inch thick for sashimi-style slices, or cut 3/4 inch cubes for poke.
Tuna is one of several premium fish caught in Keys waters. If you want to explore more, read our guide to fresh local fish in the Florida Keys.
What Are Three Fast Dinners You Can Make With a Tuna Saku Block?
Each recipe below serves two with one 8 oz block.
Seared Tuna With Sesame Soy Dip
Total time: about 10 minutes.
- Pat the block dry and season it with salt and pepper. Press all sides into 1/4 cup of sesame seeds.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of high-heat oil, such as avocado oil, in a skillet over high heat until it shimmers.
- Sear the block for 30 to 45 seconds per side, including the edges, for a rare center.
- Rest it for 1 minute, then slice it 1/4 inch thick.
- For the dip, stir together 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of rice vinegar, and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil.
If you prefer your tuna cooked through, keep searing until the center reaches 145°F.
Tuna Poke Bowl
Total time: about 15 minutes, with no cooking required.
- Cut the block into 3/4 inch cubes.
- Toss the cubes with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of sesame oil, 1 teaspoon of rice vinegar, 1 sliced scallion, and 1 teaspoon of sesame seeds.
- Chill for 10 minutes. Do not marinate much longer, because the soy sauce will start to firm and salt the tuna.
- Spoon over warm rice and top with sliced cucumber, avocado, and edamame.
Tuna Rice Bowl
Total time: about 10 minutes.
- Stir 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar and a pinch of salt into 2 cups of warm cooked rice.
- Slice the tuna 1/4 inch thick and fan the slices over the rice.
- Add wasabi, pickled ginger, sliced cucumber, and strips of nori.
- Finish with a light drizzle of soy sauce.
There is no marinade in this one. The tuna stays simple, so every slice tastes like tuna.
Why Order a Frozen Tuna Block Online?
Because it is ready whenever you are. Our Tuna Saku Block is freshly frozen and vacuum-packed one block at a time, so you can thaw what you need and keep the rest in the freezer. That makes restaurant-style tuna an easy weeknight project instead of a special trip to a fish market.
Ready to Slice Into Your First Saku Block?
A tuna dinner that looks like it came from a sushi bar does not take much: a thawed block, a sharp knife, and about 15 minutes. Add a block to your next frozen seafood delivery order from Key Largo Fisheries, and dinner is ready whenever the craving hits.