Hamachi Crudo with Yuzu and Truffled Chili Crisp Recipe
Introduction
Hamachi Crudo is a fresh and vibrant dish that highlights the delicate flavor of sushi-grade yellowtail. With a tangy citrus soy dressing and crispy fried leeks, it’s a beautiful balance of textures and tastes perfect for a light appetizer or elegant starter.

Ingredients
- 6 oz sushi-grade hamachi
- 1 leek (white part only)
- Olive oil for frying
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 fresh yuzu (squeezed) or 1 tbsp yuzu juice
- 1 tbsp fresh orange juice
- 1 tbsp mirin
- 2½ tsp rice vinegar
- ½ tbsp truffled chili crisp
- ¼ tsp agave syrup
- 1 serrano pepper (sliced, one slice per fish piece)
Instructions
- Step 1: Place the hamachi in the freezer for 15-20 minutes to make slicing easier.
- Step 2: Thinly slice the white part of the leek into matchsticks. Add them to a saucepan and cover with olive oil. Heat on medium-high for 1 minute, then reduce to medium-low and fry until the leeks turn lightly golden. Be careful not to burn them.
- Step 3: In a bowl, combine soy sauce, yuzu juice, fresh orange juice, mirin, rice vinegar, truffled chili crisp, and agave syrup. Let the mixture rest for a few minutes to meld flavors.
- Step 4: Remove the hamachi from the freezer and slice to your preferred thickness.
- Step 5: Strain the sauce into a shallow bowl to remove any solids.
- Step 6: Arrange the sliced hamachi in the sauce, ensuring each piece is lightly coated.
- Step 7: Top each slice of fish with a slice of serrano pepper and a small handful of fried leeks. Serve immediately.
Tips & Variations
- If you prefer less spice, reduce the amount of truffled chili crisp or omit the serrano slices.
- Use yuzu juice if fresh yuzu is unavailable, but fresh yuzu adds a brighter citrus note.
- For extra texture, add a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds on top before serving.
Storage
Hamachi Crudo is best enjoyed fresh and should be consumed within a few hours of preparation. If you must store it, keep components separate—store the fish and sauce individually in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Avoid reheating; serve cold or at room temperature for optimal flavor and texture.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of fish for this crudo?
Yes, other sushi-grade fish like salmon or tuna can work well. Choose a firm, fresh fish suitable for raw consumption.
What can I substitute if I don’t have truffled chili crisp?
You can use regular chili oil, chili flakes, or omit it for a milder dish. Adding a touch of black truffle oil can partially replicate the truffled flavor.
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Hamachi Crudo with Yuzu and Truffled Chili Crisp Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
Description
Hamachi Crudo is a delicate Japanese-inspired dish featuring thinly sliced sushi-grade yellowtail served in a tangy citrus-soy dressing, topped with crispy fried leeks and a hint of spice from serrano peppers and truffled chili crisp. This elegant appetizer balances fresh, umami-rich fish with bright, bold flavors and crunchy textures.
Ingredients
Fish
- 6 oz sushi-grade hamachi (yellowtail)
Fried Leeks
- 1 leek (white part only, thinly sliced into matchsticks)
- Olive oil (enough to cover leeks in saucepan for frying)
Sauce
- 3 tbsp soy sauce (add 1 tbsp more if saltier taste desired)
- 1 fresh yuzu (juiced) or 1 tbsp yuzu juice
- 1 tbsp fresh orange juice
- 1 tbsp mirin
- 2½ tsp rice vinegar
- ½ tbsp truffled chili crisp (adjust to taste for spiciness)
- ¼ tsp agave syrup
Garnish
- 1 serrano pepper (sliced, one slice per fish slice)
Instructions
- Prepare Fish for Slicing: Place the sushi-grade hamachi in the freezer for 15-20 minutes to firm up, making it easier to slice thinly.
- Fry the Leeks: Thinly slice the white parts of the leek into matchsticks. Add them to a saucepan and cover with olive oil. Heat over medium-high for 1 minute, then reduce to medium-low and fry until the leeks turn lightly golden, watching carefully to avoid burning. Remove and drain.
- Make the Sauce: In a bowl, combine soy sauce, yuzu juice, fresh orange juice, mirin, rice vinegar, truffled chili crisp, and agave syrup. Mix well and let the sauce rest for a few minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Slice the Fish: Remove the hamachi from the freezer and slice it to your desired thickness for crudo presentation.
- Strain the Sauce: Strain the sauce into a shallow bowl or plate to serve as a flavorful base for the fish.
- Arrange and Garnish: Lay the sliced hamachi over the strained sauce. Top each slice of fish with a slice of serrano pepper and a pinch of the crispy fried leeks.
Notes
- Ensure the hamachi is sushi-grade to safely enjoy it raw.
- Monitor the leeks carefully while frying to prevent burning, as they cook quickly.
- Adjust the amount of truffled chili crisp and serrano slices based on your preferred spice level.
- Substitute yuzu juice with lemon or lime juice if yuzu is unavailable, though the flavor will differ slightly.
- This dish is best served immediately to enjoy the freshness and texture contrasts.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Japanese
Keywords: Hamachi Crudo, yellowtail sashimi, Japanese appetizer, raw fish, citrus soy dressing, fried leeks, truffled chili crisp, serrano pepper

