1 Mix the sesame seeds, garlic powder, salt, pepper, sugar, and thyme together in a small bowl to create the crust mixture.
Sesame Crusted Tuna, Tuna Tataki, Ahi Tataki
This dish features sushi-grade ahi tuna coated in a fragrant sesame crust and quickly seared to achieve a caramelised exterior while maintaining a rare centre. The combination of soy sauce, garlic, and thyme creates an aromatic seasoning that complements the clean flavour of the fish. It is a popular preparation in East Asian cuisine that balances texture and temperature beautifully.
Medium
4
15 mins
5 mins
250 / serving
Non-Veg
Above values do not change with any serving size changes you make below
Follow each phase with a cleaner flow from ingredient prep to final plating.
| 454 g / 16 oz yellowfin tuna, thawed (sushi-grade saku block) |
| 15 ml / 1 tbsp soya sauce or GF coconut aminos |
| 30 ml / 2 tbsp high heat oil for searing (peanut, wok, or avocado oil) |
| 27 g / 3 tbsp benne seed (black, or mixed black and white) |
| 3 g / 1 tsp granulated garlic powder (or onion powder) |
| 4.5 g / 3/4 tsp kosher salt |
| 2 g / 1 tsp fresh cracked pepper |
| 4 g / 1 tsp sugar |
| 1 g / 1 tsp dry thyme |
1 Mix the sesame seeds, garlic powder, salt, pepper, sugar, and thyme together in a small bowl to create the crust mixture.
2 Pat the ahi tuna dry thoroughly using paper towels.
3 Place the tuna on a plate and coat all sides evenly with soy sauce to help the sesame spice adhere.
4 Generously sprinkle the sesame mix over all sides of the tuna, pressing it firmly into the flesh to coat evenly.
5 Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until extremely hot; a flick of water should sizzle loudly.
6 Add the high heat oil to the pan and swirl to coat, allowing it to get very hot.
7 Carefully lay the tuna in the pan, pressing it down with a metal spatula, and sear for 45-60 seconds until deeply golden underneath.
8 Flip the tuna carefully and sear the other side for 60-90 seconds until golden.
9 Using tongs, sear the long edges by holding the tuna upright until golden all around.
10 Transfer to a cutting board, blot if desired, then slice thinly with a very sharp knife and serve immediately.
11 Alternatively, refrigerate for up to 3 days and serve chilled.
Ahi tuna provides lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
Sesame seeds contribute calcium and healthy fats.
The quick searing method preserves nutrients whilst adding minimal additional fat.
Nutritional information is provided as a general guide only. Values may vary and should not replace professional medical or dietary advice.
Seared tuna with sesame crust draws inspiration from Japanese tataki, a technique where raw fish or meat is briefly seared over a high flame, leaving the centre virtually uncooked.
China
Pot Chicken Lo Mein
Chicken Lo Mein, Stir-fried Chicken Noodles, Lo Mein Noodles with Chicken
Yum User
China
Chinese Chicken
Soy Glazed Chicken, Chinese-Style Fried Chicken, Brown Sugar Soy Chicken
Yum User
East Asia
Quick Pickled Mushrooms
Marinated Mushrooms, Lemon-Garlic Mushrooms, Refrigerator Mushrooms, Italian Pickled Mushrooms
Yum User
China, Hong Kong
Beef Chow Fun
Beef Ho Fun, Beef Hor Fun, Stir-Fried Beef Rice Noodles, Gong Chao Niu He, Dry Fried Beef Noodles
Yum User
China, Japan
Spiced Duck with Chilli Cabbage and Miso Noodles
Five-Spice Duck with Miso Noodles, Asian-Spiced Duck Breast, Chilli Cabbage Duck Stir-fry
Yum User
South Korea
Ultimate Korean Fried Chicken
Yangnyeom Chicken, Dakgangjeong, Chikin, Korean Fried Chicken, Sweet and Spicy Fried Chicken
Yum User
South Korea
Buldak Noodles
Fire Chicken Noodles, Korean Fire Noodles, Buldak Bokkeum Myeon
Yum User
South Korea
Gochujang Chicken with Bao Buns
Korean Fried Chicken Bao, Gochujang Chicken Bao
Yum User
Ingredient
