Fish
Can You Freeze Fresh Tuna?

Can You Freeze Fresh Tuna?

Fresh tuna, such as tuna steaks, is a great source of Omega 3 which studies have shown can help reduce heart disease and other cardiovascular problems. Have you ever wondered if you can freeze fresh tuna?

Where Is The Best Place To Buy Fresh Tuna?

Fresh tuna can usually be bought from your local fishmonger or supermarket fish counter. It is most commonly sold cut into steaks but you may also be able to buy a whole side piece to cut into steaks yourself.

Sometimes you can find pre-packaged fresh tuna in the fresh fish section of the supermarket. Fresh tuna actually tastes very different from canned tuna – the taste is less fishy and more subtle.

Fresh tuna only lasts for one or two days in the fridge, so freezing might be a good option if you don’t plan on eating it straight away.

Can You Freeze Fresh Tuna Steaks?

Yes, you can freeze fresh tuna and fresh tuna steaks. Like other fish, fresh tuna freezes well and isn’t affected by the freezing process. Personally, I find that it does have a slightly stronger fishy taste after being frozen, but other than that it can be thawed and cooked just as you usually would.

Sometimes if tuna is going to be eaten raw, such as in sushi it is frozen first to kill bacteria.

Can I Use Tuna That’s Been Frozen For Sushi?

Provided the tuna was very fresh when it was frozen, fresh tuna that has been frozen can be used to make sushi.

How To Freeze Fresh Tuna (Freezing  Tuna Steaks)

The best way to freeze fresh tuna is to freeze it on the day of purchase (or the day you caught it!) and ensure that it is well-wrapped.

If you’re freezing a whole side of tuna then it’s best to cut it up into steaks before freezing. You could also cut it into smaller chunks if that works for you and the dishes you’ll eventually be cooking with the tuna

  1. Rinse the tuna under a cold tap and gently pat dry using a clean tea towel or kitchen roll.
  2. Wrap the fresh tuna steaks individually – freezing them in portions of two or three will mean they take much longer to defrost.
  3. Once wrapped, place the tuna steaks in a plastic container or zip-lock bag. Because fish has a strong smell it can sometimes contaminate other foods in the freezer, so I always think it’s best to double bag it.
  4. Label the fresh tuna and add the date it was frozen.

How Long Does Fresh Tuna Last In The Freezer?

Fresh tuna will be fine in the freezer for two to three months. While it will be safe to eat after this time, it may start to deteriorate in quality.

How To Defrost Fresh Tuna

Fresh tuna should be removed from the freezer and defrosted in the refrigerator overnight.

Individual steaks don’t take too long to defrost but shouldn’t be left on the countertop to thaw as they could enter the danger zone for bacteria forming.

How To Cook Fresh Tuna – Recipe Ideas

While you can eat fresh tuna raw, even if it’s been frozen it can also be cooked too. Personally, I like my seared on each side with some pink in the middle. If you’re looking for some inspiration on how to cook your tuna, take a look at the recipes below.

How To Cook Tuna Steaks

Seared Tuna Steak

6 Ways To Cook Tuna Steak

Freezing Other Types Of Fish

Do you have other types of raw fish that you need to freeze? We’ve got you covered!

Can You Freeze Crayfish?

Can You Freeze Cod Roe?

Can You Freeze Fish Pie?

Can You Freeze Kedgeree?