Learn how to quickly sear sushi-grade ahi tuna to achieve a flavorful crust and a rare, cool center. This is a quick seafood recipe for a healthy dinner.
Author:sarahmiller
Prep Time:10 min
Cook Time:3 min
Total Time:18 min
Yield:2 servings 1x
Category:Dinner
Method:Pan-Searing
Cuisine:Asian
Diet:Low Fat
Ingredients
Scale
2 (6 oz) sushi grade tuna steaks
2 tablespoons sesame oil
1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup sesame seeds (mixed black and white)
Instructions
Pat the tuna steaks completely dry using paper towels. This step is key for a good sear.
In a small bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and pepper. Brush this mixture evenly over all sides of the tuna steaks.
Place the sesame seeds on a shallow plate. Roll each seasoned tuna steak in the seeds until all sides are coated evenly. Press lightly to make sure the seeds adhere.
Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet (cast iron works well) over high heat until it is very hot. Add a small amount of high-heat oil if your pan is not non-stick, but avoid overcrowding.
Carefully place the coated tuna steaks in the hot skillet. Sear for 60 to 90 seconds per side for rare, or up to 2 minutes per side for medium-rare. You want a dark crust but a cool center.
Remove the tuna from the pan immediately. Let the steaks rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes before slicing.
Slice the tuna against the grain into 1/4-inch thick pieces. Serve immediately.
Notes
For best results, use high-quality yellowfin tuna.
If you prefer a different flavor, you can substitute the soy sauce with coconut aminos for a lower sodium option.
Serve this gourmet tuna over a bed of mixed greens or with steamed rice for a complete meal.