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The Ultimate 5-Minute Sesame Crusted Tuna Tataki with Ponzu Dipping Sauce

Close-up of perfectly seared tuna tataki slices coated in a black and white sesame seed crust, served on a white platter.
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Make restaurant-style seared ahi tuna at home quickly. This easy tataki recipe uses sushi grade tuna, a sesame crust, and a simple ponzu sauce for a light Japanese appetizer or quick seafood dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb sushi grade ahi tuna steak
  • 1/4 cup white sesame seeds
  • 1/4 cup black sesame seeds
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • For the Ponzu Sauce:
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten free)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil

Instructions

  1. Prepare the sesame crust: On a shallow plate, combine the white sesame seeds, black sesame seeds, salt, and pepper. Press the tuna steak firmly into the seed mixture on all sides until fully coated.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet or cast iron pan over high heat until it just begins to smoke. This high heat is key for a good sear.
  3. Carefully place the crusted tuna into the hot pan. Sear for 30 to 45 seconds per side. You want a thin, cooked crust while keeping the center raw.
  4. Immediately remove the tuna from the pan and place it on a cutting board. Let it rest for 2 minutes.
  5. While the tuna rests, prepare the ponzu sauce: Whisk together the soy sauce, lemon juice, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and sesame oil in a small bowl.
  6. Slice the rested tuna against the grain into thin, 1/4-inch thick pieces.
  7. Arrange the sliced tuna tataki on a serving platter. Drizzle lightly with any remaining ponzu sauce or serve the sauce on the side for dipping.

Notes

  • Use only the freshest, highest quality sushi grade tuna available for this recipe.
  • For an extra layer of flavor, you can lightly toast the sesame seeds before crusting the tuna.
  • If you prefer a slightly cooked center, sear for 1 minute per side instead of 30-45 seconds.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://dishicious.com/tuna-tataki-easy-5-minute-sesame-crusted-recipe/