Asian Sesame-Ginger Tuna Steak with Crispy Sesame Crust Recipe

Introduction

Asian Tuna Steak is a delicious and healthy dish featuring tender tuna steaks marinated in a savory sesame-ginger sauce. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients

• 2 tuna steaks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, divided
• Green onion, sliced (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, sesame oil, ground ginger, soy sauce, garlic powder, rice vinegar, and half of the sesame seeds to prepare the marinade.
2. Step 2: Place the tuna steaks in a shallow dish and pour half of the marinade over them, reserving the rest. Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes or up to overnight.
3. Step 3: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 350°F) or heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat if cooking on the stovetop.
4. Step 4: Remove the tuna steaks from the marinade, discarding any excess liquid. Press 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds onto the surface of each steak to form a crust.
5. Step 5: Grill or sear the tuna steaks for 2-3 minutes per side. While cooking, drizzle a small amount of the reserved marinade over the steaks.
6. Step 6: Remove the tuna when the internal temperature reaches 135°F for medium-rare or 145°F for well-done. Let the steaks rest for 2 minutes.
7. Step 7: Garnish with sliced green onions and extra sesame seeds. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Tips & Variations

• Use sushi-grade tuna for the best texture and flavor.
• Marinate the tuna for up to overnight to deepen the flavors.
• Press sesame seeds firmly onto the tuna to ensure they stick during cooking.
• For a spicy kick, add sriracha or red pepper flakes to the marinade.
• Try a squeeze of fresh lime juice before serving to brighten the dish.
• If you don’t have a grill, a cast-iron skillet works perfectly for searing.

Storage

Store leftover tuna steaks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. To reheat, warm gently in a pan over low heat for about 30 seconds per side or enjoy cold to avoid drying out the fish.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tuna for this recipe?

Yes, but it’s best to thaw frozen tuna slowly in the refrigerator overnight to maintain texture and food safety before marinating and cooking.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add red pepper flakes, sriracha, or chili oil to the marinade for extra heat. Serving with wasabi on the side also enhances spiciness.

Asian Sesame-Ginger Tuna Steak with Crispy Sesame Crust Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 96 reviews

Delicious, rich, and hearty Asian Tuna Steaks grilled or pan-seared to perfection in a homemade sesame ginger marinade. This quick and healthy dish offers a flavorful crust with nutty sesame seeds and a tender, umami-packed interior. Perfect for a protein-packed meal with versatile side pairings.

• Author: Rami
• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 minutes
• Total Time: 33 minutes
• Yield: 2 tuna steaks 1x
• Category: Seafood
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Asian
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Tuna Steak and Marinade

• 2 tuna steaks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, divided
• Green onion, sliced (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, sesame oil, ground ginger, soy sauce, garlic powder, rice vinegar, and half of the sesame seeds to create a flavorful marinade.
2. Marinate the Tuna: Place tuna steaks in a shallow dish and pour half of the marinade over ensuring even coating. Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes or up to overnight for deeper flavor infusion.
3. Preheat the Grill or Pan: Heat your grill to medium-high about 350°F, or preheat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat on the stovetop for pan-searing.
4. Coat the Tuna with Sesame Seeds: Remove tuna from marinade, discard excess liquid, then press 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds onto each steak to form a nutty crust.
5. Cook the Tuna: Grill or sear the tuna for 2-3 minutes per side. Drizzle some reserved marinade over steaks while cooking. Cook until internal temperature reaches 135°F for medium-rare or 145°F for well-done.
6. Serve & Garnish: Remove from heat and let rest for 2 minutes. Sprinkle with green onions and additional sesame seeds before serving immediately.

Notes

• Marinate for at least 20 minutes; overnight marination provides richer flavor.
• For best texture, aim for medium-rare by cooking to 135°F internal temperature.
• Reserve half the marinade before adding tuna to drizzle for extra moisture and flavor.
• Use sushi-grade tuna for optimal freshness and texture.
• Let tuna rest after cooking to retain juices and avoid dryness.
• Suitable sides include steamed jasmine rice, stir-fried vegetables, garlic sesame noodles, or Asian slaw.

Keywords: soy sauce, salad, steak, grilling, vegetables, grilled, meat, tuna, sesame, marinade, ginger