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seared ahi tuna with sesame crust

Seared Tuna with Sesame Crust

This seared tuna with sesame crust is crispy on the outside and tender in the middle. A quick marinade, sesame seed coating, and fast pan-sear make it a flavorful dish that feels fancy but takes minutes to cook.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 3 minutes
Total Time 13 minutes
Servings: 2 people
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: Japanese-Inspired
Calories: 220

Ingredients
  

  • 2 sushi-grade ahi tuna steaks about 6 oz each
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1 tsp lime juice or lemon juice
  • 1 garlic clove minced
  • 1 tsp fresh ginger grated
  • ½ cup sesame seeds mix black and white if possible
  • 2 tbsp neutral oil canola or avocado
  • Pinch of salt
  • Pinch of black pepper
Optional for serving:
  • Lime wedges
  • Spicy mayo ponzu sauce, or wasabi mayo

Method
 

  1. Marinate the tuna: In a shallow dish, mix soy sauce, sesame oil, lime juice, garlic, and ginger. Add the tuna steaks and let them sit for about 10 minutes.
  2. Prepare the coating: Spread the sesame seeds on a plate. Remove the tuna from the marinade, pat dry, and season lightly with salt and pepper. Press each side of the tuna into the sesame seeds to coat evenly.
  3. Heat the pan: Place a cast iron or heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Add the neutral oil and let it heat until shimmering.
  4. Sear the tuna: Carefully place the tuna steaks in the pan. Cook for about 45–60 seconds on each side for rare centers, or up to 90 seconds if you prefer medium-rare.
  5. Rest and slice: Remove the tuna from the pan. Let it rest for 1–2 minutes, then slice against the grain into thick strips.
  6. Serve: Arrange the slices on a platter with lime wedges and your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

  • Use sushi-grade tuna only. It’s safe to eat rare and gives the best flavor.
  • Don’t marinate too long — the lime juice can start “cooking” the tuna.
  • A super hot pan is the trick to a crispy sesame crust.
  • Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.