Tataki Pounded Herb Mixed Ground Fish
Japan — tataki (pounding) preparation documented in multiple regional traditions
Tataki (たたき) as a preparation method has two distinct meanings in Japanese cuisine that must not be confused: 1) Seared tataki (tosa tataki): briefly surface-seared raw fish or beef, served with ponzu and garnishes. 2) Pounded tataki: fish or shellfish finely minced/chopped with seasonings until cohesive — sardine tataki (iwashi no mi no tataki) being the most classic example. For pounded tataki, fresh sardines are minced with ginger, miso, negi, and shiso until the mixture holds together in a paste-like consistency. The mincing breaks cell walls releasing glutamate and oils, creating intense concentrated flavor. Often served raw on rice or as a topping for cold tofu.