Asian Sesame-Ginger Tuna Steak with Crispy Sesame Crust Recipe
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.
- 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
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
