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To make delicious sesame crusted tuna steaks, gather these main ingredients: - 4 fresh tuna steaks (approximately 6 oz each) - 1/4 cup sesame seeds (mix of white and black) - 2 tablespoons soy sauce - 2 tablespoons sesame oil - 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger - 1 clove garlic, finely minced - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste These fresh tuna steaks are the star of the dish. The sesame seeds bring a nice crunch and flavor. Soy sauce adds depth, while ginger and garlic give it a nice zing. You can elevate your dish with these optional garnishes and sides: - 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish) - Slices of avocado - Thinly sliced radish These garnishes not only add color but also fresh flavors. The creamy avocado pairs well with the rich tuna, while the radish adds a crisp bite. Using the right cooking oil is key. I recommend sesame oil for its nutty flavor. It enhances the dish and complements the sesame seeds. You can also use other oils, like canola or avocado, if you prefer. Heat your skillet until the oil shimmers. This ensures a great sear. A good sear locks in moisture and keeps the tuna tender. Now you have all the essential ingredients and tips to start your sesame crusted tuna steaks! {{ingredient_image_2}} To start, you need to make the marinade. Grab a small bowl and add these ingredients: - 2 tablespoons soy sauce - 2 tablespoons sesame oil - 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger - 1 clove garlic, finely minced - A pinch of salt - A dash of black pepper Whisk everything together until it blends well. This mixture gives the tuna a great flavor. Next, take your fresh tuna steaks. You should have four, each about 6 ounces. Place them in a shallow dish made of glass or ceramic. Pour the marinade over the tuna so each piece gets coated evenly. Cover the dish and pop it in the fridge. Let it sit for 15 to 20 minutes. This will let the flavors soak in. While the tuna is marinating, prepare to coat it. Spread your sesame seeds on a shallow plate. After marinating, take the tuna out of the fridge. Let any extra marinade drip off. Now, press each steak into the sesame seeds. Make sure both sides are well coated. Now it's time to cook! Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. Wait until the oil shimmers. Place the sesame-crusted tuna steaks in the hot skillet. Sear each side for 1 to 2 minutes if you like it rare. For a more well-done steak, cook for an extra minute. Once cooked, remove the tuna and let it rest for 1 minute. This step helps keep the juices inside. Finally, slice the tuna into thin strips. This helps show off that beautiful crust. Arrange the slices on a plate and garnish with green onions. You can also add avocado and radish for extra flair. Enjoy your delicious sesame crusted tuna steaks! To get that perfect sesame crust, choose a mix of white and black sesame seeds. This mix not only looks great but also adds depth to the flavor. When coating the tuna, press the steaks into the seeds firmly. Make sure to cover both sides well. This step ensures the seeds stick during cooking. A good crust adds a nice crunch and flavor contrast to the tender fish. Searing tuna steaks needs careful timing. Heat your skillet until the oil shimmers. This indicates it's hot enough. For rare tuna, sear each side for just 1-2 minutes. If you like it more well-done, add an extra minute. The center should remain pink, giving it that fresh taste. Remember, overcooking can dry out the fish. It’s better to undercook slightly than to ruin the texture. Having the right tools makes cooking easier. Here’s what you need for this recipe: - Non-stick skillet - Shallow dish for marinating - Shallow plate for sesame seeds - Whisk for mixing marinade - Sharp knife for slicing tuna - Serving plate for presentation These tools will help you prepare and serve your sesame crusted tuna steaks effortlessly. Pro Tips Choosing Fresh Tuna: Look for bright red color and a firm texture when selecting tuna steaks. Freshness is key to achieving the best flavor and texture. Marination Time: Marinating the tuna for just 15-20 minutes is ideal; longer can alter the delicate texture of the fish. Keep it simple to enhance the natural flavors. Searing Technique: Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the tuna to achieve a perfect sear. This helps to lock in the juices and create a crispy sesame crust. Resting Period: Allowing the tuna to rest for a minute after cooking helps retain moisture and enhances the overall juiciness of each slice. {{image_4}} You can change the flavor of your tuna steaks easily. Try different marinades to make it fun. For a zesty twist, mix lime juice and honey with soy sauce. This adds a sweet and tangy kick. Another option is to use teriyaki sauce with sesame oil for a sweeter profile. If you love spice, add chili flakes to your soy sauce mix. This will give your tuna a nice heat. You don’t have to stick to just searing. Grilling the tuna steaks adds a smoky flavor. Heat your grill to medium-high and place the steaks directly on the grates. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side. Baking is another great option. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Place the coated tuna on a baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes. This method gives a tender finish without much fuss. Pair your sesame crusted tuna with fresh sides. A simple cucumber salad adds crunch and freshness. You can also serve it with jasmine rice for a filling meal. For a colorful plate, add roasted veggies like carrots or bell peppers. If you want a bit more flair, try avocado slices and radishes. They not only look nice but also add great flavor. Store leftover tuna steaks in an airtight container. Make sure to let them cool down first. Place them in the fridge within two hours of cooking. They can stay fresh for 1 to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing. To reheat tuna steaks, use a skillet. Heat it on low heat to avoid overcooking. Add a splash of water or broth to keep them moist. Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side. You can also use a microwave. Heat on low power in 30-second intervals until warm. For freezing, wrap tuna steaks tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. This helps keep their texture and flavor intact. The best way to cook tuna steaks is by searing them. Searing gives the tuna a nice crust while keeping the center pink and tender. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and add a bit of oil. Sear the tuna for 1-2 minutes on each side for a rare finish. If you prefer it more cooked, add an extra minute per side. This method locks in flavors and keeps the fish moist. Yes, you can prepare sesame crusted tuna in advance. Marinate the tuna steaks ahead of time and coat them with sesame seeds. Store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. It’s best to cook them fresh for optimal taste and texture. However, marinating them a few hours before cooking enhances the flavors. To check if tuna steaks are done, look for a pink center. Use a sharp knife to cut into the steak. If it is light pink, it is rare. For medium, look for a slightly opaque center. The outside should show a nice sear. Always trust your senses; the smell and texture will guide you as well. Cooking times can vary, so keep an eye on them! This blog post covered how to make delicious sesame crusted tuna steaks. We explored key ingredients, cooking techniques, and helpful tips to perfect your dish. Remember to experiment with marinades and sides to suit your taste. Proper storage can keep leftovers fresh for later enjoyment. With these steps, you can make a meal that impresses everyone. Get ready to enjoy your tasty creation next time you cook!

Sesame Crusted Tuna Steaks

Deliciously seared tuna steaks coated with sesame seeds, served with fresh garnishes.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Asian
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces fresh tuna steaks (approximately 6 oz each)
  • 0.25 cup sesame seeds (a mix of white and black)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
  • 1 clove garlic, finely minced
  • to taste salt
  • to taste freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 pieces green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
  • optional slices of avocado and thinly sliced radish for additional garnish

Instructions
 

  • In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, sesame oil, grated ginger, minced garlic, a pinch of salt, and a dash of pepper. Whisk thoroughly until well combined to create a fragrant marinade.
  • Place the tuna steaks in a shallow glass or ceramic dish. Pour the marinade over the steaks, ensuring they are evenly coated. Cover the dish and let it marinate in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes.
  • While the tuna is marinating, spread the sesame seeds out evenly on a shallow plate for easy access.
  • After marinating, remove the tuna steaks from the refrigerator. Allow any excess marinade to drip off, then carefully press each steak into the sesame seeds, coating both sides generously.
  • Add a tablespoon of sesame oil (or your preferred cooking oil) to a non-stick skillet and heat over medium-high heat until the oil shimmers.
  • Gently place the sesame-crusted tuna steaks in the hot skillet. Sear for 1-2 minutes on each side for rare, ensuring the center remains pink. If you prefer a more well-done steak, sear for an additional minute.
  • Once cooked to your liking, remove the tuna steaks from the skillet and allow them to rest for about 1 minute.
  • Using a sharp knife, slice the tuna steaks into thin strips to showcase the beautiful sesame crust and tender pink center.
  • Arrange the sliced tuna steaks artistically on a serving plate. Garnish with freshly sliced green onions, and for a vibrant touch, add slices of avocado and radish alongside.

Notes

For an elegant touch, serve the tuna on a bed of leafy greens or alongside a small bowl of soy sauce for dipping.
Keyword healthy, seafood, sesame, tuna