If you're a fan of tuna, you've probably heard of ahi yellowfin tuna. But have you heard of sushi-grade albacore tuna?

This delicious and versatile fish is often overlooked in favor of its more well-known cousin. In fact, the name "albacore" can be deceiving, as it sounds less exotic than "ahi".

However, when it comes to taste and quality, albacore is just as good as ahi and can even be a cheaper option. It is budget friendly and sushi grade. Try it in place of your favorite Ahi recipe (whether cooked or raw) and you'll see what we mean by the value for the price on this one.

Let's get into it. Here's what you need to know about this often overlooked finfish named Albacore:

Freshness and Quality

Albacore tuna, also known as "white tuna," is a mild and delicate fish with a flaky texture. We also refer to it often as Tombo Tuna. When it's fresh, its flesh is a bright white color, and it has a sweet, buttery flavor that is similar to ahi. In fact, albacore tuna is often compared to ahi because they both have a similar taste and texture.

At Four Star Seafood, we source our albacore tuna from the Pacific Northwest, where it is caught using sustainable fishing practices. Our albacore is always fresh, as it is caught and processed on the same day. This means that you can enjoy the same high-quality, fresh taste with our tombo tuna, but at a potentially more affordable price point than it's pricier cousin, ahi tuna.

Versatility

One of the best things about albacore tuna is its versatility in the kitchen. It can be used in a variety of dishes, including sushi rolls, poke bowls, salads, and sandwiches. Its mild flavor makes it a great canvas for a variety of flavors, and it pairs well with everything from spicy or grated wasabi to soy sauce to Yuzu ponzu.

Cooking Tips

If you're new to cooking with albacore tuna, here are a few tips to get you started:

• When searing or grilling albacore, be sure not to overcook it. Its delicate texture can become dry and tough if it's cooked for too long.
• Albacore is a great option for raw dishes like sushi or poke, but it should always be purchased from a reputable supplier and stored properly to ensure freshness and safety.
• Albacore can also be canned and used in sandwiches, salads, and pasta dishes. Look for high-quality, sustainable canned albacore that is packed in water or olive oil.

Get Cooking With Fresh Albacore!

While albacore tuna may not have the same exotic name as ahi yellowfin tuna, it is just as delicious and versatile in the kitchen. With its fresh taste and potentially more affordable price point, albacore is a great option for those looking to explore the world of tuna beyond the usual suspects.

Head over to our fresh finfish collection to shop and try our delicious, sustainably sourced albacore tuna today!