Save to Pinterest Bring the elegance of a high-end sushi bar to your kitchen with this stunning Black Sesame Seed Crusted Tuna. This restaurant-quality dish features succulent, sushi-grade tuna steaks encased in a nutty, toasted sesame crust. The contrast of the dark seeds against the perfectly rare-seared fish creates a visual masterpiece that tastes even better than it looks.
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This recipe focuses on simplicity and technique. By quickly searing the tuna on high heat, you lock in the juices and preserve the delicate texture of the fish while activating the oils in the sesame seeds for maximum flavor. It is a sophisticated meal that can be prepared in under 20 minutes from start to finish.
Ingredients
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- 2 (6 oz / 170 g) sushi-grade tuna steaks, about 1 inch thick
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup (60 g) black sesame seeds, toasted
- 1/4 cup (30 g) white sesame seeds, toasted (optional)
- 1/4 cup (60 g) mayonnaise
- 1–2 teaspoons wasabi paste
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Thinly sliced scallions, pickled ginger, and lemon wedges (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1: Prep the Tuna
- Pat the tuna steaks dry with a paper towel. Brush all sides with a mixture of soy sauce and sesame oil, then season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Step 2: Apply the Crust
- Spread the black sesame seeds (and white seeds, if using) on a shallow plate. Press each tuna steak firmly into the seeds to coat all sides evenly.
- Step 3: Sear
- Heat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over high heat. Add a small amount of oil and sear the steaks for 30–45 seconds per side, until the crust is golden and the center remains rare.
- Step 4: Whisk the Mayo
- In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, wasabi paste, rice vinegar, and lemon juice. Whisk until smooth, adjusting the wasabi to your preferred heat level.
- Step 5: Slice and Serve
- Allow the tuna to rest briefly, then use a sharp knife to slice against the grain into 1/2-inch slices. Arrange on plates, drizzle with wasabi mayo, and add your favorite garnishes.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure a clean cut without tearing the crust, use a very sharp chef's knife when slicing the tuna. For the best sear, use a cast-iron pan that can hold high heat effectively. Remember that this dish is designed to be served rare, so keep your searing time brief to maintain that buttery texture.
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Varianten und Anpassungen
If you prefer a dairy-free version, substitute the standard mayonnaise with a vegan mayo alternative. While black sesame seeds provide a striking look, adding toasted white sesame seeds offers a beautiful color contrast. You can also adjust the wasabi paste quantity to match your personal spice tolerance.
Serviervorschläge
Transform this into a full meal by serving the sliced tuna over a bed of steamed jasmine rice or alongside lightly dressed greens. For an extra touch of flavor, add a drizzle of soy reduction or serve with a side of pickled ginger and extra lemon wedges to brighten the palate.
Save to Pinterest With its bold flavors and elegant look, this Black Sesame Seed Crusted Tuna is the ultimate dish for any special occasion or a quick weeknight treat. Enjoy every crunchy, zesty bite of this Japanese-fusion classic!
