Serves: 2 | Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients
- For the Ahi Tuna:
- 2 ahi tuna steaks (about 6 oz each, 1 inch thick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or sesame oil)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for coating)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (for marinating, optional)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)
- For the Soy Ginger Sauce (optional):
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions
- Prepare the Tuna Steaks:
- If marinating, combine soy sauce and lemon juice in a small bowl. Place the tuna steaks in the marinade for 5–10 minutes.
- Pat the tuna dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper. If you like, coat the tuna with sesame seeds for added flavor and crunch.
- Make the Soy Ginger Sauce (optional):
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, grated ginger, garlic, and chili flakes (if using). Set aside.
- Sear the Tuna:
- Heat olive oil or sesame oil in a heavy skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the tuna steaks to the pan. Sear for 1–2 minutes on each side for rare to medium-rare (the tuna should be seared on the outside but still rare in the middle). Adjust cooking time for your preferred doneness.
- Serve:
- Remove the tuna steaks from the pan and let them rest for a minute.
- Slice the tuna against the grain into thin strips.
- Drizzle with the soy ginger sauce (if using) or serve with a side of rice, salad, or steamed vegetables.
Seared Ahi Tuna is a quick, healthy, and flavorful dish with a delicate texture. You can enjoy it with sushi rolls, in a poke bowl, or on top of a salad.