Six-Minute Seared Ahi Tuna Steaks
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
1 min
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Cook Time
5 mins
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Optional Marinating Time
10 mins
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Total Time
6 mins
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Servings
2 servings
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Calories
331 kcal
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Cuisine
International
Six-Minute Seared Ahi Tuna Steaks
Description
Six-Minute Seared Ahi Tuna Steaks uses 1-inch thick yellowfin tuna steaks seasoned with a marinade combining soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, honey, kosher salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper. This marinade enhances the natural flavor without overpowering it. After patting the steaks dry, they are coated with the marinade and optionally allowed to rest for 10 minutes to overnight, depending on preference.
Cooking involves searing the tuna in a very hot skillet with a neutral oil for a short time—about one minute per side for medium-rare thickness. This method forms a slight crust on the outside while keeping the inside tender and rare, maximizing flavor and texture contrast. The dish is served garnished with green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and lime wedges, which add freshness and brightness.
Adjusting sear time is necessary based on steak thickness and desired doneness. The recipe notes provide guidance for shorter or longer searing, as well as marinade salt adjustments for longer marinating times. Serving with a spicy mayo complements the flavor profile and adds a creamy element.
Ingredients
- 2 ahi tuna about 4 oz. each, 1" thick - see notes for thinner or thicker, yellowfin tuna, steaks
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil see notes, toasted
- 1 tablespoon honey see notes
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 tablespoon neutral cooking oil canola, olive, or other high-heat cooking oil of preference, generic cooking oil
- green onions for serving (optional, toasted sesame seeds, lime wedges
- sesame seeds
- lime
Instructions
- Pat the 2 ahi tuna (yellowfin tuna) steaks dry with a paper towel. Place on a plate or inside a plastic bag.
- Mix the 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil, 1 tablespoon honey, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (OMIT if marinating for more than a couple hours, see notes), 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper until honey is fully dissolved. Pour over the ahi tuna steaks and turn over to coat completely. Optional: allow to marinate for at least 10 minutes, or up to overnight in the refrigerator. Also optional: Reserve a spoonful or two of the marinade before coating the fish for drizzling on top after you've cooked it.
- Heat a medium skillet (preferably non-stick or a well-seasoned cast iron skillet) on medium-high to high until very hot ( or medium to medium-high for nonstick). I recommend giving cast iron 3-5 minutes to get hot and nonstick about 1 minute, depending on how thick it is.
- Add the 1 tablespoon oil to the hot pan. Sear the tuna for 1 - 1½ minutes on each side for medium rare ( 2 -2½ minutes for medium-well to well, 30 seconds for very rare. See notes - this will vary based on thickness of the tuna steaks). (Note: different burners get hotter depending on your stove. Use your best judgement whether you use medium, medium-high, or high heat, as the marinade may burn if too high heat is used)
- Remove to a cutting board. Slice into 1/2 inch slices and serve garnished with green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and lime wedges, if desired.
Notes
- Adjust searing time based on tuna steak thickness: no more than 1 minute per side for thinner pieces and about 2 minutes per side for thicker steaks.
- When marinating longer than an hour, omit kosher salt or use low-sodium soy sauce to prevent excess saltiness.
- Use sushi-grade frozen tuna to minimize risk of parasites; consult health guidance if unsure.
- Searing immediately after cooking keeps the center rare, while resting allows slight carryover cooking.
- Grilling over high heat for about 1 minute per side is an alternative cooking method.
- Serve with spicy mayo for a sushi-like flavor enhancement.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 2servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 331 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 331kcal | 17% |
| Carbohydrates | 10g | 3% |
| Protein | 28g | 56% |
| Fat | 20g | 31% |
| Saturated Fat | 3g | 15% |
| Cholesterol | 43mg | 14% |
| Sodium | 1632mg | 68% |
| Potassium | 324mg | 7% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 9g | 18% |
| Vitamin A | 2580IU | 52% |
| Calcium | 9mg | 1% |
| Iron | 2mg | 11% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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