What is the difference between seared tuna and ahi tuna?

Ahi tuna refers to the type of fish—usually yellowfin or bigeye tuna—while seared tuna describes the cooking method. When you hear seared ahi tuna , it means you’re working with ahi that’s been lightly seared on the outside but left rare on the inside. It’s a favorite for those who love sushi-grade flavor with just a touch of cooked texture.

How do you say seared tuna in French?

The seared tuna traduction in French is thon mi-cuit , which translates to “half-cooked tuna.” On menus, you might also see steak de thon , meaning tuna steak . If you’re ordering or translating a seared ahi tuna recipe , look for those keywords to spot it abroad.

What makes a good tuna marinade?

A great tuna marinade combines bold umami and acidic notes. The perfect balance includes: Soy sauce or tamari Toasted sesame oil Fresh lime juice Garlic and ginger This combo enhances the natural richness of ahi tuna without overpowering it. Don’t miss our full marinade breakdown in Part 2 for the best flavor layering techniques.

Can I use this recipe for a regular tuna steak?

Yes! While this is designed as a seared ahi tuna recipe , you can absolutely use it with any tuna steak —just ensure it's sushi-grade if you plan to eat it rare. The marinade and searing technique are the same.

Is ahi tuna poke the same as seared tuna?

No. Ahi tuna poke is typically served raw and cubed, tossed in sauce, and served cold over rice. Seared ahi tuna is lightly cooked on the outside, usually served sliced, and often plated hot or room temp. Both are delicious, but the textures and prep styles differ.

How To Make Unforgettable Seared Ahi Tuna in 10 Minutes - Recipestasteful | We're the secret ingredient for home cooks.

Name: How To Make Unforgettable Seared Ahi Tuna in 10 Minutes
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 2 min
Total time: 7 min
Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Ingredients: 2 ahi tuna steaks (6 oz each, sushi-grade); 2 tablespoons sesame oil; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger; 1 garlic clove, minced; 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional for balance); Salt and black pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons white sesame seeds; 2 tablespoons black sesame seeds (or more white if unavailable); Optional garnish: sliced green onions, lime wedges

Description

Seared Ahi Tuna is a restaurant-worthy dish made with high-quality tuna steaks quickly seared for a rare center and served with a sesame crust and savory soy-based dipping sauce. It’s light, flavorful, and ready in under 15 minutes!

Ingredients

Scale

2 ahi tuna steaks (6 oz each, sushi-grade)
2 tablespoons sesame oil
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
1 garlic clove, minced
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional for balance)
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons white sesame seeds
2 tablespoons black sesame seeds (or more white if unavailable)
Optional garnish: sliced green onions, lime wedges

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Instructions

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, and honey. Set aside as a dipping sauce.
Pat tuna steaks dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and black pepper.
Combine white and black sesame seeds on a plate. Press each tuna steak into the seeds to coat both sides evenly.
Heat sesame oil in a skillet over high heat until shimmering.
Sear each tuna steak for 30–45 seconds per side for rare (longer for medium-rare). The outside should form a crust while the inside remains pink and cool.
Remove from skillet and let rest for 1–2 minutes. Slice against the grain into 1/2-inch pieces.
Serve with dipping sauce and garnish with green onions or lime wedges if desired.

Notes

Use only sushi-grade tuna for safety, as this dish is served rare.
For more heat, add a pinch of wasabi or a splash of sriracha to the dipping sauce.
Pairs beautifully with steamed rice, cucumber salad, or seaweed salad.
Cook time is brief—don’t overcook or the tuna will become dry.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 2 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Searing
Cuisine: Asian Fusion

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 tuna steak with sauce
Calories: 320
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 590mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 13g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 32g
Cholesterol: 55mg