Q1: How do I know when the sesame-crusted tuna is properly cooked, and can I cook it more if I prefer it well-done?

According to Step 8, you should sear the tuna for 1-2 minutes per side until a golden crust forms, which creates the traditional seared-rare center. The tuna should be beautifully pink in the middle when sliced in Step 10. If you prefer your tuna more cooked through, you can extend the searing time to 3-4 minutes per side for medium or 5-6 minutes per side for well-done, though keep in mind that ahi tuna can become dry if overcooked. The key indicator is that the sesame crust should be golden brown and the tuna should feel slightly firm to the touch when pressed gently with tongs.

Q2: I don't have a cast-iron skillet. What other cookware can I use to sear the tuna?

The Equipment list mentions a cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan as options. If you don't have either, you can use a stainless steel skillet, which also retains heat well for proper searing. Avoid using nonstick pans as they typically cannot withstand the high heat required in Step 7 (when the oil should be shimmering and just beginning to smoke). Whatever pan you choose, make sure it's heavy enough to maintain consistent high heat, as this is crucial for developing the golden sesame crust without overcooking the interior of the tuna.

Q3: Can I substitute regular soy sauce for the tamari called for in the dressing?

While regular soy sauce can technically replace tamari in Step 2's dressing, it's important to note that this recipe is labeled as Gluten-Free Diet, and tamari is specifically used because it's traditionally gluten-free (though always check labels). Regular soy sauce contains wheat and would make this dish no longer gluten-free. If you need a substitute and want to maintain the gluten-free status, use coconut aminos, which have a similar umami flavor profile but are slightly sweeter and less salty, so you may want to reduce the honey slightly. Use the same 2 tablespoon measurement as you would for tamari when whisking together the dressing ingredients.

Q4: What if I can only find white sesame seeds? Can I make this recipe without the black sesame seeds?

Yes, you can absolutely use only white sesame seeds if black sesame seeds are unavailable. Step 4 instructs you to combine 1/4 cup each of white and black sesame seeds for a total of 1/2 cup, so simply use 1/2 cup of white sesame seeds instead. The black sesame seeds primarily add visual contrast and a slightly nuttier flavor, but the coating will work just as well with all white seeds. Alternatively, you could toast some of the white sesame seeds in a dry pan for 2-3 minutes until golden brown to add more depth of flavor and some color variation to your crust.

Sesame Crusted Ahi Tuna with Ginger Slaw

This Sesame Crusted Ahi Tuna with Ginger Slaw is a restaurant-quality dish that brings the bold flavors of Asian fusion cuisine right to your dinner table. Sushi-grade ahi tuna steaks are generously coated in black and white sesame seeds, then quickly seared in a screaming hot pan to create a beautifully caramelized crust while keeping the interior perfectly rare and buttery. The result is a stunning contrast of textures—crispy, nutty exterior giving way to melt-in-your-mouth tender tuna.

The accompanying ginger slaw provides the perfect counterpoint to the rich tuna, featuring crisp cabbage and carrots tossed in a vibrant dressing made with fresh ginger, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. This refreshing slaw cuts through the richness of the fish while adding a satisfying crunch and a bright, tangy flavor profile that elevates the entire dish. The combination creates a harmonious balance of flavors and textures that's both light and deeply satisfying.

Inspired by Japanese and pan-Asian culinary traditions, this gluten-free dinner is not only impressive but remarkably quick to prepare. From start to finish, you can have this elegant meal on the table in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something special or for entertaining guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The key to success is using the freshest sushi-grade tuna you can find and not overcooking it—the interior should remain cool and rare, showcasing the quality of the fish.

This dish is naturally gluten-free when prepared with tamari instead of traditional soy sauce, and it's packed with protein and healthy omega-3 fatty acids. It's a guilt-free indulgence that proves healthy eating doesn't mean sacrificing flavor or satisfaction. Serve it sliced over the ginger slaw with a drizzle of extra dressing and a sprinkle of additional sesame seeds for a presentation that's as beautiful as it is delicious.

Julia

Recipe Author: Gluten-Free & Specialty Diet Chef

Nutrition

25 minutes

None servings

385 calories

Fat 18.00g

Carbs 16.00g

Protein 42.00g

Ingredients

4 pieces	ahi tuna steaks, 6 oz each, sushi-grade, patted dry
1/4 cup	white sesame seeds
1/4 cup	black sesame seeds
3 cups	green cabbage, thinly sliced
1 cup	red cabbage, thinly sliced
2 medium	carrots, julienned or shredded
4 whole	green onions, thinly sliced
2 tbsp	fresh ginger, peeled and grated
3 tbsp	rice vinegar
2 tbsp	sesame oil
2 tbsp	gluten-free tamari
1 tbsp	honey
1 whole	lime, juiced
2 tbsp	vegetable oil, for searing
1 tsp	kosher salt
1/2 tsp	black pepper, freshly ground
1/4 cup	cilantro, chopped (optional)

Equipment

Cutting board

Whisk

paper towels

tongs

small mixing bowl

large mixing bowl

sharp knife

serving plates

cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan

large plate for coating

grater or microplane

Anti-Inflammatory Diet

This recipe is packed with anti-inflammatory ingredients like fatty fish, sesame seeds, ginger, and fresh vegetables. The combination of omega-3 rich tuna, antioxidant-rich vegetables, and anti-inflammatory spices makes it an ideal choice for reducing systemic inflammation.

Clean Eating

A perfect clean eating recipe featuring whole, minimally processed ingredients like fresh ahi tuna, fresh vegetables, and simple seasonings. The dish avoids refined sugars, artificial additives, and focuses on nutrient-dense, whole food components.

Gluten-Free Diet

Naturally gluten-free recipe using tamari instead of traditional soy sauce, with no wheat-based ingredients. The dish relies on whole food ingredients like fresh fish, vegetables, and sesame seeds, making it safe for those avoiding gluten.

Mediterranean Diet

This recipe perfectly aligns with Mediterranean Diet principles, featuring fatty fish rich in omega-3s, olive oil, abundant vegetables in the slaw, and minimal processed ingredients. The emphasis on fresh, whole foods and seafood makes it an ideal Mediterranean-style meal.

Paleo Diet

An excellent Paleo-compliant dish featuring wild-caught fish, fresh vegetables, and healthy oils like sesame and vegetable oil. The recipe avoids all grains, legumes, and dairy, focusing on whole, unprocessed ingredients that would be available to hunter-gatherers.

Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced green cabbage, red cabbage, julienned carrots, and sliced green onions. Toss together and set aside.

2 min

In a small bowl, whisk together the grated ginger, rice vinegar, sesame oil, tamari, honey, and lime juice until well combined to create the dressing.

2 min

Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss thoroughly to coat all vegetables evenly. Refrigerate the slaw while you prepare the tuna.

1 min

On a large plate, combine the white and black sesame seeds, mixing them together evenly.

1 min

Pat the tuna steaks completely dry with paper towels, then season both sides generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.

1 min

Press each tuna steak firmly into the sesame seed mixture, coating all sides generously. Use your hands to press the seeds into the fish so they adhere well.

2 min

4 min

Heat the vegetable oil in a large cast-iron or heavy-bottomed skillet over high heat until the oil is shimmering and just beginning to smoke, about 3-4 minutes.

3 min

Carefully place the sesame-crusted tuna steaks in the hot skillet. Sear without moving for 1-2 minutes until a golden crust forms on the bottom.

Remove the tuna from the skillet and let it rest on a cutting board for 2 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute.

2 min

Slice each tuna steak against the grain into 1/2-inch thick slices.

2 min

Divide the ginger slaw among four serving plates. Arrange the sliced tuna over the slaw, fanning it out attractively.

2 min

Garnish with additional sesame seeds and fresh cilantro if desired. Serve immediately while the tuna is still warm.

1 min

Sesame Crusted Ahi Tuna with Ginger Slaw

Nutrition

Ingredients

Equipment

On Diet

Anti-Inflammatory Diet

Clean Eating

Gluten-Free Diet

Mediterranean Diet

Paleo Diet

Instructions

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How do I know when the sesame-crusted tuna is properly cooked, and can I cook it more if I prefer it well-done?

Q2: I don't have a cast-iron skillet. What other cookware can I use to sear the tuna?

Q3: Can I substitute regular soy sauce for the tamari called for in the dressing?

Q4: What if I can only find white sesame seeds? Can I make this recipe without the black sesame seeds?