Sesame Crusted Tuna Steak

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nGHYrx0Km6M

I filmed this episode to demonstrate how easy it is to make Sesame Crusted Tuna Steak at home. This is one of those dishes people like to order at restaurants but shy away from making one their own. They prefer to leave it up to a professional Chef to prepare!

I understand this way of thinking, but I promise you that making them at home is not as difficult as you might expect. The key is starting with the freshest fish you can find. Fresh tuna brings the flavor! Then, marinate it as instructed so the flavor is infused into the fish, without it being overdone. Tuna is delicate, letting it marinate for too long will overpower the meat so please heed the instructions below.

To cook the tuna steaks, work carefully with your heated skillet, and only cook it for the time advised in the recipe. Tuna is not meant to be cooked all the way through, it will ruin the flavor and texture. After it is cooked, slice it and serve it immediately for best flavor. I hope you enjoy this video and that you give Sesame Crusted Tuna Steak at home a try. You'll love it, I promise!

Sesame Crusted Tuna Steak

Ingredients (Serves 2) 

• 2 tuna steaks (6–8 oz each, about 1-inch thick) 

• 2 tbsp soy sauce 

• 1 tbsp sesame oil 

• 1 tbsp rice vinegar (optional for extra tang) 

• 1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional for a slight glaze) 

• 2 tbsp sesame seeds (mix of white and black if you like) 

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper 

• 1–2 tbsp vegetable oil (for searing) 

• Optional garnish: sliced green onions, avocado, or a squeeze of lime 

  
  

Instructions 

1. In a shallow dish, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and honey. Season tuna steaks lightly with salt and pepper, then place them in the marinade for 10–15 minutes (do not exceed 30 minutes, as raw tuna is delicate). 

2. Spread sesame seeds on a plate. Pat the tuna lightly with paper towels, then press each side into the seeds until well coated. 

3. Heat the vegetable oil in a non-stick or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the tuna steaks. 

4. Sear 1–2 minutes per side for rare (tuna should remain pink in the center). 

5. Cook 3–4 minutes per side for medium. 

6. Slice tuna against the grain and serve immediately. Drizzle with a little extra soy sauce or sesame oil if desired. Garnish with green onions, avocado, or lime wedges. 

Nikki Glekas is the owner of Nikki Glekas Events, a full-service catering and events company located in Stamford, CT.. To discuss further please contact team@nikkiglekascollective.com or call 203.658.8659.