Why You’ll Love This Seared Ahi Tuna Recipe
When you try this seared ahi tuna recipe, you’ll quickly discover why it’s a favorite in my kitchen. The moment it hits the pan, the sizzle is music to my ears. The combination of spices creates an irresistible aroma that pulls everyone in.
I love how the sesame seeds add a delightful crunch while the center remains perfectly rare. It’s elegant enough for a dinner party but simple enough for a weeknight meal.
Plus, it pairs beautifully with various sides, making it versatile. Trust me, once you taste it, you’ll find yourself coming back for more again and again.
Ingredients of Seared Ahi Tuna
When it comes to whipping up a delicious seared ahi tuna, having the right ingredients makes all the difference. Trust me, this dish isn’t just a feast for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. The vibrant colors of the tuna and sesame seeds are so beautiful, you’ll want to take a picture before you dig in.
Plus, the ingredients are pretty straightforward—no need to hunt down any elusive spices. So, let’s gather what we need to make this culinary masterpiece.
Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
- 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 tablespoon fresh coarse ground black pepper
- 1 1/2 tablespoons white sesame seeds
- 1 1/2 tablespoons black sesame seeds
- 1 lb sushi grade fresh ahi tuna
- 2 tablespoons canola oil
Now, let’s talk about those ingredients for a moment. The ahi tuna is the star of the show here—make sure you go for sushi-grade, which means it’s super fresh and safe to eat raw. If you can find it at a local fish market, great! If not, your grocery store’s seafood section should have some options.
As for the spices, they’re what really give this dish its oomph. Feel free to adjust them to suit your taste; maybe you want a little more kick from the cayenne or a bit less salt.
And don’t skimp on the sesame seeds—they add that lovely crunch that contrasts so nicely with the tender tuna. So, are you ready to get cooking?
How to Make Seared Ahi Tuna
Now that we’ve all our ingredients for this fabulous seared ahi tuna, let’s embark on the cooking process. First things first, grab a bowl and mix together 1 1/2 teaspoons of kosher salt, 1 teaspoon of ground coriander, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, and 1/2 tablespoon of fresh coarse ground black pepper. This wonderful blend is going to give our tuna a delightful flavor, so don’t skip this step. Once you’ve got that mixed up, set it aside for a moment.
Then, in another bowl, combine 1 1/2 tablespoons each of black and white sesame seeds. These little beauties will add a lovely crunch to our dish, and who doesn’t love a good crunch?
Now, let’s get to the star of the show—our 1 lb sushi-grade fresh ahi tuna. Make sure to pat the tuna dry with some paper towels because nobody wants a soggy piece of fish. Once that’s done, generously rub the seasoning mixture all over the tuna. Go ahead and press it in a bit; we want that flavor to really get into the fish without mashing it up. After that, it’s time to coat the tuna in those mixed sesame seeds. Press them in, too, so they stick nicely.
Alright, here comes the fun part! Grab a heavy-bottomed non-stick or cast iron skillet and heat it on medium-high. Add in 2 tablespoons of canola oil and let it get hot—like, slightly smoking hot. When it reaches that point, carefully place the tuna in the pan. Cook it for about 45 seconds on each side. I know, it feels brief, but trust me, you want to keep that lovely pink center.
Don’t forget to cook the ends and cut sides for about 20 seconds each. Once you’ve got everything seared to perfection, take the tuna out of the pan and let it rest for a hot second. Then, slice it to your desired thickness with a very sharp sashimi knife. I mean, if you’ve got a fancy knife, why not show it off? Serve it up, and you’re ready to impress!
Seared Ahi Tuna Substitutions & Variations
After perfecting that seared ahi tuna, you might be curious about how to mix things up or adapt the recipe to suit your taste.
I love experimenting with different spices; try swapping out the paprika for smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness. If you’re feeling adventurous, add some grated ginger or garlic to the seasoning mix.
For a nutty twist, consider using crushed pistachios instead of sesame seeds. You can even substitute the ahi tuna with salmon or yellowfin for a different flavor profile.
Each variation brings a unique flair to this delicious dish!
Additional Tips & Notes
While preparing seared ahi tuna, I’ve discovered a few tips that can elevate your dish.
First, always use sushi-grade tuna for the best flavor and safety. Make certain to pat the tuna dry to guarantee a good sear.
When seasoning, don’t be shy; the spices really enhance the flavor. Use a heavy pan to maintain high heat and get that perfect crust.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a splash of soy sauce or a drizzle of sesame oil before serving.
Finally, slice the tuna against the grain for tender bites. Enjoy your culinary masterpiece!