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Savor an oceanic symphony of gourmet flavors with my tantalizing Sesame Crusted Tuna recipe! This melt-in-your-mouth recipe for seared tuna steaks encrusted with a delicate blend of toasted sesame seeds requires just 7 simple ingredients and only 25 minutes of prep time. Cheers for restaurant-quality eats in the comfort of your own home!

“I have a confession – I’m obsessed with this sesame tuna! I’ve tried a ton of online recipes, but had yet to meet the perfect recipe. Tried this and was met with the most perfect, vibrant, flavorful piece of seared tuna.. THANK YOU!”

– MARY
Overhead photo of thinly sliced tuna with sesame crust on a bed of jasmine rice in a serving bowl.

Update: This recipe was originally published in July 2017. I made updates to the article below to include more information about searing sesame tuna at home.

Table of Contents

About this recipe for seared tuna 

Discover the secrets to creating sensational, restaurant-quality sesame-crusted tuna steaks in your own kitchen with my foolproof seared tuna recipe.

Imagine tender, buttery rare tuna with the perfect contrast of crunchy, beautifully toasted sesame seeds. Each bite of this seared tuna offers rich, ocean-fresh flavor perfectly enhanced with a subtle hint of soy sauce

This sesame crusted tuna recipe offers a sensational taste experience that delights the senses with every bite. The exterior boasts a beautifully toasted sesame seed crust, providing a nutty crunch that perfectly contrasts the tender, buttery texture of the rare tuna inside. As you bite into this seared tuna, the rich, ocean-fresh flavor unfolds and is perfectly enhanced by a subtle hint of soy sauce, a touch of umami-rich sesame oil, and flavorful sesame seeds. The symphony of textures and tastes creates a harmonious balance, making each mouthful a celebration of fresh tuna.

Not just a feast for your tastebuds, but also a vibrant visual treat, this sesame seared ahi tuna recipe with its striking contrast of golden crust and deep pink center, is a truly unforgettable seafood experience.

Why you’ll love recipe

If you’re a fan of gorgeously red, barely cooked pan-seared tuna steaks, this one’s for you. Aside from having a delectably tender consistency and a stunning appearance on the plate, this sesame-crusted ahi tuna recipe is also:

  • Made With Only 7 Ingredients. You’ll be amazed by the remarkable flavors achieved with only a handful of common kitchen items. A simple yet powerful combination of chili powder, coriander, and ginger, plus a smattering of crunchy, two-toned sesame seeds creates an enticing fusion of flavors that will impress even the most discerning palates.
  • Versatile. One of the most significant advantages of this crusted ahi tuna steak recipe is its remarkable versatility. Whether you’re hosting an elegant dinner party or craving a quick and satisfying weeknight meal, this dish effortlessly adapts to any occasion. Serve it as a stunning main course alongside a vibrant salad or slice it thinly to create a delectable appetizer.
  • Budget-Friendly. As if that weren’t enough to love, this seared sesame tuna also helps you save your hard-earned dollars. By preparing this exquisite dish at home, you’re taking a budget-friendly approach that gives you all the flavors of dining out at a high-end seafood restaurant for a fraction of the cost.  

So why settle for the ordinary when you can savor the extraordinary? Give this sesame crusted tuna steak recipe a whirl and experience seafood bliss tonight!

What is ahi tuna? 

In short, ahi is a superstar in the world of seafood. Also known as yellowfin tuna for its vibrant saffron stripe and fins, this yummy fish is known for its deep ruby-red color and rich, meaty flavor. The name “Ahi” comes from the Hawaiian language, and translates to “fire,” a nod to the vibrant hue of the meat. It’s like the James Bond of the fish world — sleek and sophisticated.

What truly sets Ahi Tuna apart is its melt-in-your-mouth texture; when it’s just barely cooked, you get to experience the naturally tender, buttery consistency. Trust me: it’s like taking a bite of pure indulgence. People often enjoy it seared on the outside, leaving the inside nice and rare, giving you that perfect balance of umami flavors.

So, whether you’re a seafood aficionado or just someone looking to try something new and exciting, this sesame-crusted seared ahi tuna is definitely worth a try. Like Nike says, Just Do It!

Overhead photo of an ahi tuna steak, sesame seeds, peanut oil, soy sauce, and spices neatly organized on a kitchen counter.

Ingredients for seared tuna

Sesame crust

  • Chili Powder – This spice blend is made from ground dried chili peppers and often includes earthy cumin, packing a punch of heat and a delightful complex flavor. Depending on the type of chili peppers used, chili powder can have varying levels of spiciness, ranging from mild to hot – so pick the heat level you prefer.
    • Substitutions: Swap in other varieties like mildly sweet paprika, smoked paprika, hot paprika, spicy cayenne, smoky ancho or chipotle.
  • Ground Coriander – Its citrus undertones lend a refreshing element, while its warm and earthy essence adds depth. 
    • Substitutions: Garam masala is a spice blend that offers a flavor profile similar to coriander since it typically contains coriander along with other aromatic spices Alternatively, cumin is a suitable substitute, especially if you’re looking for a warm and earthy flavor. However, keep in mind that cumin has a stronger flavor, so you may want to use it in smaller quantities.
  • Ground Ginger – For a spicy, warm, and slightly sweet flavor, with a hint of citrus freshness. 
    • Substitutions: In a pinch, use approximately 1 teaspoon of ground ginger for every tablespoon of the fresh stuff. Ground allspice can also be used as a substitute for ground ginger, although it will provide a slightly different flavor. Use an equal amount of ground allspice for ground ginger.
  • Sesame Seeds – I use a mix of both black and white seeds for the greatest visual appeal. Feel free to use either on its own if you prefer.
  • Kosher Salt & Ground Pepper – Because basic seasoning makes the world go round.

Searing tuna

  • Tuna Steak – It may be sold as Ahi, Bigeye, or Yellowfin, so just keep your eyes peeled. If it has a “Sashimi-grade” stamp, all the better.
  • Peanut Oil – You’ll want a high-heat cooking oil here.
    • Substitutions: Any neutral-flavored oil with a relatively high smoke point, including avocado, grapeseed,  or canola.
  • Sesame Oil: For a savory, toasty flavor that perfectly complements this sesame ahi tuna.

Recipe variations

While we think this recipe for seared tuna with sesame seeds is simply perfect the way it is, you definitely have some wiggle room to make it your own. Here are a few possible ways to switch things up:

  • Sweet-n-Savory: Prepare a soy ginger glaze by combining soy sauce or tamari, freshly grated ginger and grated garlic, a touch of honey or brown sugar, and a splash of rice vinegar. Brush the glaze over the seared tuna before applying the sesame crust for a sweet-savory flavor profile.
  • Citrusy: Before applying the sesame crust, grate some fresh orange or lime zest onto the tuna steaks. The vibrant citrus notes will add a bright and tangy element to the dish, complementing the nutty sesame crust beautifully.
  • Spice Up the Crust: Enhance the flavor of the sesame crusted tuna steak by incorporating additional spices or herbs. You can experiment with adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a touch of heat, or try mixing in some dried herbs like thyme, oregano, or basil to infuse the crust with aromatic notes.
Overhead photo of a tuna steak in a shallow bowl filled with black and white sesame seeds.

How to make sesame crusted tuna

This quick and simple yellowfin tuna recipe comes together in a flash. Here’s how:

  1. Make Sesame Crust: On a small plate, mix together the chili powder, coriander, ginger, salt, pepper, and sesame seeds.
  2. Prepare Tuna Steak: Place the ahi tuna on a clean work surface and pat thoroughly dry with paper towels. Brush the tuna all over with soy sauce and sesame oil.
  3. Coat Tuna with Sesame Seeds: Transfer the ahi tuna to the plate with the sesame seed mixture. Press the tuna steak down into the sesame seeds mixture. Flip the tuna over and press again to coat the tuna all over with sesame seeds.

How to sear tuna with sesame crust

After you’ve crusted the tuna steak in sesame seeds, you’ll want to sear it on the stove-top in a hot pan. Here’s how:

  1. Heat Skillet to Blazing Hot: Place a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Leave the skillet on the stove-top and let it heat up until VERY HOT. (Note: You can tell the pan is hot enough by adding a couple drops of water to the pan. If the water sizzles, the pan is hot and ready for searing!)
  2. Add Oil: Once the pan is very hot, add the peanut oil, followed by the sesame oil.
  3. Sear Sesame Crusted Tuna: Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the tuna steak to the hot oil, using the back of a fish spatula to gently press down on the tuna. Let the tuna sear – undisturbed – for 30 seconds to 1 minute. Use your fish spatula to gently lift up one corner of the ahi tuna to check the bottom. Once the bottom of the tuna steak is beautifully golden in color, carefully flip the tuna. Continue to sear the tuna for 45 seconds to 1 1/2 minutes, or until both sides of the tuna steak are deeply golden in color. (Note: If you would like to sear the edges of the ahi, use tongs to hold the tuna upright in the hot pan.)
  4. Rest: Transfer the seared tuna to a clean work surface and let rest for 1 minute.
  5. Slice Tuna: Using a sharp slicing knife or sharp Chef’s knife, thinly slice the tuna steak against the grain.
  6. Serve or Store: Serve sesame crusted tuna steak with your favorite seafood side dish, or store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Expert tips for the best success!

Wondering how to cook seared tuna? Keep the following tips and tricks in mind and your sesame seed-crusted tuna will come out beautifully every single time:

  • Look for fresh, high-quality ahi tuna steaks. Opt for steaks that have a vibrant red color and firm texture. Make sure they have a mild, fresh smell that’s reminiscent of the ocean. If possible, purchase “sushi-grade” or “sashimi-grade” fish, to ensure the highest quality and freshness. 
  • Toasting the sesame seeds before applying them to the tuna adds an extra layer of flavor and enhances their nuttiness. Heat a dry skillet over medium heat, then add the sesame seeds and stir frequently until they turn golden and fragrant. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning and allow the seeds to cool before using them to coat the tuna.
  • Pat the tuna steaks dry with a clean towel before seasoning and applying the seasoned sesame crust. This helps ensure a better sear and enhances the adherence of the sesame seeds. 
  • To achieve a beautifully seared exterior while keeping the interior rare or medium-rare, preheat your skillet over high heat. Sear the tuna steaks for about 1-2 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the steaks and your desired level of doneness. The sesame crust should turn golden brown and crispy while the center of the tuna remains rare or medium-rare. 
  • Once you’ve finished searing the tuna, allow it to rest for a few minutes like you would a regular steak. This allows the juices to redistribute. When you’re ready to serve, use a sharp knife to slice the tuna against the grain into thin, even slices. 
Overhead photo of seared tuna steak in a black cast iron skillet.

FAQs: frequently asked questions

What type of tuna should I use for this recipe?

For the best quality, be sure to use sushi-grade tuna or sashimi-grade tuna. These types of tuna are fresh and safe to eat rare, which is essential for this seared tuna recipe.

What type of tuna should I use for this recipe?

For the best quality, be sure to use sushi-grade tuna or sashimi-grade tuna. These types of tuna are fresh and safe to eat rare, which is essential for this seared tuna recipe.

Can I use frozen tuna for this recipe?

Most sushi-grade tuna you find at the market is previously frozen. So yes, you can absolutely use frozen tuna to make this seared sesame tuna recipe. Just make sure it is in fact sushi or sashimi-grade and be sure to thaw and pat the tuna dry before using.

How do I get the perfect sear on my tuna?

To achieve a perfect sear on your sesame crusted tuna steak, ensure your pan is blazing hot before adding the tuna. Be sure you use a high smoke point oil, such as peanut oil, and sear the tuna for just one to two minutes per side for the ideal crispy sesame crust and rare interior.

How do I prevent the sesame seeds from falling off during searing?

Before searing, use your fingers to firmly press the sesame seeds into the tuna. You’ll also be lightly brushing the tuna with a bit of sesame oil and soy sauce before coating, which will help the sesame seeds adhere better.

Can I make this recipe if I don’t have a cast iron skillet?

Absolutely. You can use any heavy-bottomed skillet or non-stick pan to sear sesame encrusted tuna. You can even use a flat top or hibachi grill if you’d like. The key to success is to ensure the pan is sufficiently hot to achieve a great sear on the sesame tuna.

What are some different variations I can try with this recipe?

I will always encourage you to get in the kitchen and experiment with online recipes. That way you can create a seared tuna specially customized to suit you and your tastebuds. I recommend experimenting with different crusts, such as finely crushed nuts or spice blends. Additionally, you can try marinating the tuna steaks in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil before searing.

How do I know when the tuna is done cooking?

You want to just sear the outside of the tuna, while keeping the inside rare. For a one-inch-thick piece of tuna, you’ll need to sear for about 1-2 minutes per side. The center of the tuna steak should remain pink and slightly cool to the touch.

Overhead photo of a seared sesame crusted tuna steak cut into thin slices on a cutting board.

Serving ahi seared tuna 

Common serving suggestions

  • With Soy Dipping Sauce: I’ve included a delicious ginger soy dipping sauce recipe to enhance with this seared tuna. (The recipe is included for you in the printable recipe card below.)
  • On a Bed of Greens: Serve the sesame crusted tuna over a bed of mixed greens or baby arugula and drizzle with an Asian vinaigrette for a refreshing and nutritious meal.
  • With Rice: Pair the sesame tuna with a side of steamed jasmine, sticky sushi rice, zucchini rice, or coconut milk rice for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
  • Accompanied by Wasabi and Ginger: Offer a small dollop of wasabi and and a little pickled ginger on the side for those who enjoy a spicy kick or palate cleanser that complements the tuna beautifully.
  • With Pickled Veggies: Serve seared tuna alongside pickled red onions, pickled jalapenos, or other pickled vegetables to add a tangy contrast that balances the richness of the tuna.

Unique serving ideas

  • Tropical Tuna Tacos: Create a fun twist on taco night by serving the seared crusted tuna in soft corn tortillas. Top with fresh jalapeno slaw, mango salsa, and a drizzle of lime and cilantro crema for a vibrant taco experience.
  • Sushi Bowls: Serve the sliced seared tuna over a bowl of sushi rice and top with slices of avocado, diced cucumber, and little seaweed salad or a deconstructed poke bowl that’s both colorful and delicious.
  • Tuna Lettuce Wraps: If you’re looking for a low-carb lunch or dinner option, serve the sesame tuna slices wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves. Top with shredded carrots and microgreens, and drizzle with soy sauce for refreshing lettuce wraps.
  • Seared Tuna Salad: Roughly chop the leftover seared tuna and swap out the poached tuna in this fresh tuna salad recipe to make the all-time best tuna salad in all the land.
  • Carpaccio Style: Omit the ginger soy dipping sauce and thinly slice the seared sesame tuna as thinly as possible. Then serve carpaccio style with a drizzle of olive oil, lemon juice, and scattering of capers.
Close-up photo of sliced ahi seared tuna with a sesame crust on a bed of white rice.

Storing leftovers

  • Place any leftover seared ahi tuna steaks in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then store it in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.
  • To prevent the sesame crust from becoming soggy, it’s advisable to store the tuna separately from any accompanying sauces or dressings. 
  • I suggest serving any leftovers cold or at room temperature, as reheating can overcook the tuna and diminish its desirable texture.
Extreme close-up photo showcasing the luxurious inside texture of seared tuna.

Alright, friends! It’s time to cast aside those takeout menus, reel in your inner chef, and embark on a culinary adventure that’s fin-tastically budget-friendly. Don’t let this opportunity swim away—dive into the kitchen and let this pan-seared tuna with sesame seeds be the shining star of your homemade feast. Sea-riously, you won’t regret it! 

Hugs & Fishes,

Cheyanne

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More delicious tuna recipes! 

Overhead photo of sliced sesame crusted tuna on a bed of white rice in a large white bowl.

Seared Sesame Crusted Tuna

5 from 5 votes
Author: Cheyanne Holzworth
Total Time: 12 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 2 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Savor an oceanic symphony of gourmet flavors with my tantalizing Sesame-Crusted Tuna recipe! This melt-in-your-mouth recipe for seared tuna steaks encrusted with a delicate blend of toasted sesame seeds requires just 7 simple ingredients and only 25 minutes of prep time. Cheers for restaurant-quality eats in the comfort of your own home!

Equipment

  • 1 Shallow Bowl – for mixing sesame crust ingredients
  • 1 Small Bowl – for mixing the marinade ingredients
  • 1 Cast Iron Skillet – for searing the sesame crusted tuna
  • OPTIONAL 1 Small Bowl – for making the dipping sauce

Ingredients 

For the Sesame Crust:

For Searing the Tuna:

Ginger Soy Dipping Sauce:

Instructions

  • Make Sesame Crust for Tuna: Add the sesame seeds, chili powder, coriander, ginger, scant 1 teaspoon salt, and heaping 1/8 teaspoon black pepper to a medium rimmed plate or large shallow bowl large enough to hold the tuna steak.
    Use a fork or small whisk to stir the ingredients together until well combined. Then set the plate or bowl aside.
  • Prepare Tuna Steak: Place the ahi tuna onto a clean work surface and pat thoroughly dry with paper towels.
    In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce with 1 teaspoon of sesame oil.
    Then, use a pastry brush and brush the soy mixture all over the tuna steak.
  • Coat Tuna with Sesame Seed Mixture: Transfer the seasoned ahi tuna steak to the plate with the sesame seeds.
    Use your hands to press the tuna steak down into the sesame seed mixture. Then, flip the tuna over and repeat the process, pressing the tuna steak down into the sesame seeds.
  • OPTIONAL – Make the Dipping Sauce: To a small bowl, add half the scallions, all the soy sauce, vinegar, water, agave, grated ginger, sesame oil, and crushed red pepper flakes.
    Season with a pinch of salt and then use a whisk to stir the ingredients together until well combined. Taste the sauce and adjust the flavors to suit your personal tastebuds.
    Then, set the dipping sauce aside.
  • Heat Skillet Until It’s Blazing Hot: Place a dry cast-iron skillet on the stovetop over medium-high heat. Leave the skillet on the heat and let the pan heat up until it’s very hot, but not smoking.
  • Sear Sesame Encrusted Tuna: Once the pan is hot, add all the peanut oil and the remaining teaspoon of sesame oil.
    Then carefully add the sesame tuna steak to the hot oil. Immediately, use the back of a fish spatula (or regular spatula if that’s all you have) to gently press down on the tuna. Sear tuna – undisturbed – for 45 seconds to 1 minute. Use your spatula to gently lift one corner of the tuna steak to check on the bottom.
    Once the bottom looks deeply golden in color, use tongs to carefully flip the tuna over to the other side. Continue to sear the tuna for 45 seconds to 1 ½ minutes, or until the bottom side is deeply golden in color.
  • Rest Seared Tuna: Immediately remove the seared tuna from the pan and place onto a clean work surface. Let cool for at least 1 minute.
  • Slice Sesame Tuna Steak: Using a sharp slicing knife, slice the tuna against the grain into long, 1/4-inch thick pieces.
  • Serve Sesame Tuna with Dipping Sauce: Garnish the sesame crusted tuna with the remaining sliced green onions and serve with the dipping sauce on the side. Enjoy!

Notes

  • Need to Scale the Recipe? Hover your mouse over the number of servings in the recipe card. You’ll see a sliding scale pop up, you can use that to scale the recipe up or down as needed.
  • Got questions? I’ve got answers! If you ever run into an issue, have a question, or need any clarification – please feel free to drop them in the comments section. I’m happy to help when I can!
Nutritional information is provided as a courtesy and the nutrition facts are an estimate based upon 4 servings. Facts are for the sesame crusted seared tuna only and do not include the optional dipping sauce. Exact information will depend upon the brands of ingredients and precise measurements used.

Nutrition

Calories: 157kcal    Carbohydrates: 3g    Protein: 15g    Fat: 10g    Saturated Fat: 2g    Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g    Monounsaturated Fat: 3g    Cholesterol: 22mg    Sodium: 175mg    Potassium: 213mg    Fiber: 1g    Sugar: 0.1g    Vitamin A: 1388IU    Vitamin C: 0.1mg    Calcium: 99mg    Iron: 2mg
Course: Appetizer, entree
Cuisine: Asian

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Angled shot of black chopsticks picking up a slice of rare, pan seared, sesame encrusted tuna off a white plate with zucchini noodles.