Sesame Crusted Ahi Tuna

Ahi tuna, known for its rich flavor and buttery texture, has become a favorite among chefs and home cooks alike. This stunning fish, often served seared or raw, is a staple in many seafood dishes, particularly in Hawaiian and Japanese cuisines. Ahi tuna—more commonly referred to as yellowfin tuna—is celebrated not just for its taste but also for its versatility, lending itself to a variety of cooking techniques and flavor profiles. One such delightful preparation is sesame-crusted ahi tuna, a dish that captures the essence of the ocean while adding a nutty crunch that elevates the entire experience.

Discover the art of cooking with our Sesame Crusted Ahi Tuna recipe, a delicious blend of rich flavors and textures. This dish features fresh ahi tuna coated in crunchy black and white sesame seeds, enhanced by a flavorful marinade. Learn about the nutritional benefits of both ahi tuna and sesame seeds, making it a healthy choice for dinner. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress with its elegance and taste.

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Ingredients

2 ahi tuna steaks (6 oz each)

1/4 cup black sesame seeds

1/4 cup white sesame seeds

1 tablespoon olive oil

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 teaspoon soy sauce

1 teaspoon sesame oil

1 teaspoon honey

Juice of 1 lime

2 cloves garlic, minced

1-inch piece of ginger, grated

Fresh cilantro and lime wedges for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, lime juice, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Set aside.

Marinate the Tuna: Place the ahi tuna steaks in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Allow the tuna to marinate for at least 15 minutes in the refrigerator, turning once halfway through.

Prepare the Sesame Crust: On a flat plate, mix the black and white sesame seeds. Remove the tuna from the marinade and let the excess drip off. Season both sides with salt and pepper. Press each side of the tuna steaks firmly into the sesame seed mixture to create an even crust.

Pan-Sear the Tuna: Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the tuna steaks. Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side for medium-rare (adjust cooking time for desired doneness). The crust should be golden and fragrant while the inside remains pink.

Slice and Serve: Remove the tuna from the skillet and allow it to rest for a minute. Slice the steaks against the grain into thin strips. Plate the sliced tuna and drizzle with any remaining marinade if desired. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.

Enjoy: Serve immediately with a side of steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad to complete your meal.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 30 minutes | 2 servings