Black Sesame Tuna Wasabi Mayo (Printable version)

Sushi-grade tuna coated with black sesame, seared rare and paired with a tangy wasabi mayo.

# Ingredient List:

→ Tuna

01 - 2 sushi-grade tuna steaks (6 oz each), 1 inch thick
02 - 1 tablespoon soy sauce
03 - 1 teaspoon sesame oil
04 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

→ Crust

05 - 1/2 cup black sesame seeds, toasted
06 - 1/4 cup white sesame seeds, toasted (optional)

→ Wasabi Mayo

07 - 1/4 cup mayonnaise
08 - 1 to 2 teaspoons wasabi paste
09 - 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
10 - 1 teaspoon lemon juice

→ Garnish

11 - Thinly sliced scallions
12 - Pickled ginger
13 - Lemon wedges

# How-To Steps:

01 - Pat tuna steaks dry with paper towels. Brush all sides with soy sauce and sesame oil. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
02 - Spread black sesame seeds and white sesame seeds (if using) on a shallow plate. Press each tuna steak into the seeds, coating all sides evenly.
03 - Heat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over high heat. When hot, add a small amount of oil.
04 - Sear tuna steaks for 30 to 45 seconds per side, just until the sesame crust is golden and the inside remains rare. Remove from pan and rest briefly.
05 - In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, wasabi paste, rice vinegar, and lemon juice until smooth. Adjust wasabi to desired heat level.
06 - Slice tuna steaks against the grain into 1/2-inch thick slices.
07 - Arrange tuna slices on plates. Drizzle with wasabi mayo and garnish with scallions, pickled ginger, and lemon wedges if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Quick and Elegant: Ready in just 18 minutes but looks like it came from a high-end sushi bar.
  • Textural Contrast: Combines a satisfyingly crunchy toasted sesame crust with tender, melt-in-your-mouth rare tuna.
  • Zesty Flavor: The homemade wasabi mayo adds a sharp, refreshing kick.
  • Diet-Friendly: Naturally low carb and high in protein.
02 -
  • Always verify the sushi-grade status of your tuna to ensure it is safe to serve rare.
  • Use a very sharp chef's knife when slicing to keep the sesame crust intact and get clean cuts.
  • Check mayonnaise labels for allergens like mustard if you have specific sensitivities.
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