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Seared Black Pepper-Crusted Ahi Tuna Steaks

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From , former About.com Guide

Seared Black Pepper-Crusted Ahi Tuna Steaks

Seared Black Pepper-Crusted Ahi Tuna Steaks

Photo © Flickr user VirtualEm
If you like steak, you will love this black pepper-crusted Ahi tuna steak recipe. This cut of tuna is best enjoyed medium-rare, like any great steak recipe, and the spicy pepper crust is perfect with this meaty fish.

Makes 4 Seared Black Pepper-Crusted Ahi Tuna Steaks

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 5 minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 4 (6-oz) Ahi steaks, about 1 1/2" thick (ask for "sear" or "sushi" grade if cooking medium rare)
  • 4 tbsp fresh coarsely ground black pepper
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 lemon, quartered

Preparation:

In a small bowl, combine the salt, coriander, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Lay the tuna steaks out on a plate, and sprinkle the spice mixture evenly on both sides. Then coat the tuna on both sides with the black pepper, and gently press it in so that it adheres to the surface, being careful not to smash the flesh.

Place a thick-bottomed frying pan, or cast iron skillet, on med-high heat, until very hot. Add the oil, and sear the tuna steaks for about 2 minutes per side, or until desired doneness is reached. Serve with fresh lemon.

User Reviews

 5 out of 5
Worth The Smoke, Member jvdapena

Our stove hood is not vented outside. So when the peppercorns hit the ""very hot pan"" it had the effect of pepper spray smoke. Cats and dogs went flying. My family opened the windows (in February) and ran to the other corner of the house leaving me with eyes watering to sear the tuna for 2 minutes or so, but I persevered. I served it with mixed vegetables, and even added beans and rice as I am a creative cook. My husband turned the house fan on high. Within 3 minutes the food was on the table, the air was clear and the dog stopped barking and braved entering the dining room. And the dinner was amazing. The coriander seed which I crushed with a mortar and pestle is the key. And using 1.5 tsp of coarse salt instead of fine made this recipe just perfect. Now the cats want to know why there's nothing left over.

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