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Bigeye Tuna
Fish
Nutri-ScoreA

Bigeye Tuna

Thunnus obesus

Clinical Encyclopedia

Bigeye tuna is a highly prized fish known for its rich flavor and high omega-3 fatty acid content, making it a popular choice in sushi and sashimi dishes.

Scientific NameThunnus obesus
Region of OriginPacific and Atlantic Oceans

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories144 kcal
Water
70%
Fiber0g
Total33.0g
Protein
30g(91%)
Fats
3g(9%)
Carbohydrates
0g(0%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Health Benefits

Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health and may reduce inflammation.
High protein content supports muscle growth and repair, making it ideal for athletes and active individuals.
Contains important vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin B12 and selenium, which support energy metabolism and immune function.
Low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for low-carb and ketogenic diets.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!High mercury levels in large fish like bigeye tuna can pose health risks, especially for pregnant women and young children.
!Overconsumption may lead to sustainability concerns due to overfishing.

How to Prepare & Consume

Best enjoyed raw as sushi or sashimi, or grilled to enhance its natural flavors. Avoid overcooking to preserve moisture and texture.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose bigeye tuna that is bright in color, firm to the touch, and has a clean ocean smell. Avoid any fish that appears dull or has a strong fishy odor.

How to Store

Store bigeye tuna in the coldest part of the refrigerator and consume it within 1-2 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic and freeze.

Myths vs Realities

MythAll tuna is low in mercury.+
RealityLarger species like bigeye tuna can have high mercury levels, which can be harmful if consumed excessively.
MythEating raw fish is always unsafe.+
RealityWhen sourced from reputable suppliers and handled properly, raw fish like bigeye tuna can be safe to eat.
MythTuna is not a sustainable seafood choice.+
RealitySustainability varies by fishing practices; choosing certified sustainable sources can make tuna a responsible choice.

Healthy Recipes

Grilled Bigeye Tuna Steaks with Avocado Salsa

Juicy grilled Bigeye tuna steaks topped with a refreshing avocado salsa, perfect for a healthy dinner.

Ingredients
  • 2 Bigeye tuna steaks (6 oz each)
  • 1 ripe avocado, diced
  • 1 medium tomato, diced
  • 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and brush the tuna steaks with olive oil, seasoning with salt and pepper.
  2. 2. Grill the tuna steaks for about 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare, then remove from the grill.
  3. 3. In a bowl, combine diced avocado, tomato, red onion, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Serve the tuna steaks topped with the avocado salsa.

Bigeye Tuna Poke Bowl

A vibrant poke bowl featuring marinated Bigeye tuna, fresh vegetables, and a bed of brown rice for a nutritious meal.

Ingredients
  • 8 oz Bigeye tuna, diced
  • 2 cups cooked brown rice
  • 1/2 cucumber, sliced
  • 1/2 cup shredded carrots
  • 1/4 cup edamame
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix the diced tuna with soy sauce and sesame oil, letting it marinate for 10 minutes.
  2. 2. Prepare the poke bowl by placing cooked brown rice at the bottom, followed by cucumber, carrots, and edamame.
  3. 3. Top the bowl with marinated tuna and sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.

Bigeye Tuna Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette

A light and zesty salad featuring seared Bigeye tuna, mixed greens, and a tangy citrus vinaigrette.

Ingredients
  • 4 oz Bigeye tuna, seared
  • 4 cups mixed greens
  • 1 orange, segmented
  • 1/4 cup red bell pepper, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Sear the Bigeye tuna for 1-2 minutes on each side, then slice thinly.
  2. 2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, orange segments, and red bell pepper.
  3. 3. Whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper, then drizzle over the salad and toss gently. Top with sliced tuna.

Bigeye Tuna Tacos with Mango Salsa

Delicious Bigeye tuna tacos topped with a sweet and spicy mango salsa, wrapped in whole grain tortillas.

Ingredients
  • 8 oz Bigeye tuna, diced
  • 4 whole grain tortillas
  • 1 ripe mango, diced
  • 1/2 red onion, diced
  • 1 jalapeño, minced
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix diced mango, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and salt to create the salsa.
  2. 2. Sear the diced Bigeye tuna in a hot pan for 1-2 minutes until cooked through.
  3. 3. Assemble the tacos by placing tuna in tortillas and topping with mango salsa before serving.

Bigeye Tuna and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers

Colorful bell peppers stuffed with a nutritious mixture of quinoa, Bigeye tuna, and vegetables for a wholesome meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 large bell peppers, halved
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 6 oz Bigeye tuna, flaked
  • 1/2 cup corn
  • 1/4 cup black beans
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix cooked quinoa, flaked tuna, corn, black beans, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Stuff the bell pepper halves with the mixture and place them in a baking dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the peppers are tender.

Bigeye Tuna Ceviche with Lime and Cilantro

A refreshing ceviche made with fresh Bigeye tuna, lime juice, and cilantro, perfect as an appetizer or light meal.

Ingredients
  • 8 oz Bigeye tuna, diced
  • 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 jalapeño, minced
  • Juice of 2 limes
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine diced tuna, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, cilantro, and salt.
  2. 2. Mix well and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  3. 3. Serve chilled with tortilla chips or on a bed of lettuce.

Bigeye Tuna and Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry

A healthy stir-fry featuring Bigeye tuna and zucchini noodles, tossed in a savory sauce for a low-carb meal.

Ingredients
  • 8 oz Bigeye tuna, sliced
  • 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1/2 cup snap peas
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Heat sesame oil in a pan over medium heat and sauté garlic until fragrant.
  2. 2. Add sliced tuna and snap peas, cooking for 2-3 minutes until tuna is seared.
  3. 3. Stir in zucchini noodles and soy sauce, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until just tender. Season with salt and pepper before serving.

Bigeye Tuna Sushi Rolls

Homemade sushi rolls featuring fresh Bigeye tuna, avocado, and cucumber, wrapped in nori for a delightful treat.

Ingredients
  • 8 oz Bigeye tuna, sliced into strips
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 1 cucumber, julienned
  • 4 sheets of nori
  • 2 cups sushi rice, cooked
  • Soy sauce for dipping
Instructions
  1. 1. Lay a sheet of nori on a bamboo sushi mat and spread a thin layer of sushi rice over it.
  2. 2. Place strips of tuna, avocado, and cucumber in the center, then roll tightly using the mat.
  3. 3. Slice the roll into bite-sized pieces and serve with soy sauce for dipping.

Bigeye Tuna and Spinach Frittata

A protein-packed frittata featuring Bigeye tuna and fresh spinach, perfect for a healthy breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients
  • 6 large eggs
  • 4 oz Bigeye tuna, flaked
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. 2. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Stir in flaked tuna and spinach.
  3. 3. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet, pour in the egg mixture, and cook for 3-4 minutes until the edges set. Transfer to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until fully set.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the health benefits of eating bigeye tuna?

Bigeye tuna is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health, reduce inflammation, and may lower the risk of chronic diseases.

How should bigeye tuna be cooked?

Bigeye tuna can be grilled, seared, or served raw as sushi or sashimi. It is best not to overcook it to maintain its flavor and texture.

Is bigeye tuna safe to eat during pregnancy?

Pregnant women should limit their intake of bigeye tuna due to its higher mercury content. It's advisable to consult a healthcare provider.

How can I tell if bigeye tuna is fresh?

Fresh bigeye tuna should have a bright color, firm texture, and a clean ocean smell. Avoid fish with a dull appearance or strong fishy odor.

What is the best way to store bigeye tuna?

Store bigeye tuna in the coldest part of the refrigerator and consume it within 1-2 days. For longer storage, freeze it.

Can I eat bigeye tuna raw?

Yes, bigeye tuna is commonly consumed raw in sushi and sashimi dishes, but ensure it is sourced from a reputable supplier.

What is the difference between bigeye tuna and yellowfin tuna?

Bigeye tuna has a higher fat content and richer flavor compared to yellowfin tuna, making it more desirable for sushi.

How often can I safely eat bigeye tuna?

Due to its mercury content, it is recommended to limit consumption to once a week for adults and less frequently for children and pregnant women.