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Seared Ahi Tuna with Sesame Crust

Ahi tuna recipe delivers restaurant-quality seared tuna in just minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests at your table.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 4 minutes
Total Time 9 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Japanese-Inspired
Calories: 280
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • Two ahi tuna steaks 6 ounces each, 1.5 inches thick
  • Two tablespoons sesame seeds white or black, or mixed
  • Two tablespoons soy sauce
  • One teaspoon kosher salt
  • Half teaspoon black pepper
  • One teaspoon sesame oil
  • Two tablespoons high-smoke-point oil avocado or vegetable
  • Lime wedges for serving

Equipment

  • Cast-iron skillet or stainless steel pan
  • Paper towels
  • Instant-read meat thermometer
  • Shallow dish for sesame seeds
  • Tongs
  • Sharp knife for slicing
  • Cutting board
  • Small bowl for mixing seasonings

Method
 

  1. Remove ahi tuna from the refrigerator and pat it completely dry with paper towels on all sides.
  2. Combine soy sauce and sesame oil in a small bowl, whisking to combine.
  3. Brush the marinade over all sides of each tuna steak.
  4. Pour sesame seeds into a shallow dish and press each tuna steak into the seeds, coating all four sides.
  5. Season the coated tuna steaks with kosher salt and black pepper on both sides.
  6. Place your cast-iron or stainless steel skillet on the stovetop over high heat and let it preheat for at least 3 minutes.
  7. Add your high-smoke-point oil to the pan and immediately place both tuna steaks in the pan.
  8. Resist the urge to touch them; let them sit undisturbed for 2 minutes.
  9. Flip the tuna steaks carefully using tongs and sear the other side for exactly 2 minutes.
  10. Transfer the tuna to a cutting board and let it rest for 2 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Serve your seared ahi tuna over sushi rice or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal.