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Crispy Seared Ahi Tuna with Sesame Crust

crispy seared ahi tuna - featured image

This restaurant-quality crispy seared ahi tuna features a nutty sesame crust and a tangy dipping sauce, all made easily at home in under 20 minutes. It’s a photogenic, crowd-pleasing dish perfect for weeknights or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 ahi tuna steaks (about 6 oz each), sushi-grade
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons white sesame seeds
  • 2 tablespoons black sesame seeds (or 4 tablespoons total if using only one type)
  • 1 tablespoon avocado oil (or grapeseed/canola oil)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari/coconut aminos for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon honey (or maple syrup)
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon wasabi paste (optional)
  • 1 green onion, thinly sliced

Instructions

  1. Pat tuna steaks dry with paper towels. Sprinkle both sides evenly with kosher salt and black pepper.
  2. On a plate, mix white and black sesame seeds together. Press each tuna steak into the seeds, coating all sides generously.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, toasted sesame oil, and wasabi paste (if using). Stir in sliced green onion.
  4. Add avocado oil to a heavy-bottomed skillet or cast iron pan, then heat over medium-high until shimmering.
  5. Place the sesame-crusted tuna steaks in the pan. Sear for 45-60 seconds per side for rare, or 90 seconds per side for medium-rare.
  6. Transfer tuna steaks to a cutting board and let rest for 2 minutes. Slice against the grain into 1/4-inch strips.
  7. Arrange slices on a platter. Drizzle with dipping sauce or serve it on the side. Sprinkle with extra green onions for color.

Notes

For gluten-free, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. Pat tuna dry for a crispy crust. Sear quickly over high heat for best texture. If sesame seeds burn, lower heat immediately. Use sushi-grade tuna for safety and best flavor. Leftovers can be enjoyed cold in salads or poke bowls.

Nutrition

Keywords: ahi tuna, sesame crust, seared tuna, easy dinner, healthy, gluten-free, low-carb, quick, Asian, Japanese, seafood