Sesame Tuna

Sesame tuna is a simple and elegant dish, perfect for a fancy dinner or a light but flavorful meal. This is a typical fusion cuisine recipe, which combines elements of Eastern cooking with more traditional methods. Here is how to prepare it:

Ingredients

• 4 fresh tuna steaks of about 150-200 grams each
• 100 grams of white and black sesame seeds
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Extra virgin olive oil to taste
• Soy sauce (for serving)
• Lime juice (optional, for serving)

Preparation

1. Pat the tuna steaks dry with paper towels.
2. Season the tuna with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. Pour sesame seeds onto a plate and press the tuna steaks into the seeds, making sure they stick on all surfaces.
4. Heat some extra virgin olive oil in a non-stick pan. When the oil is hot, place the tuna steaks in the pan.
5. Cook the steaks for about 1-2 minutes per side if you prefer them rare (the exact time will depend on the thickness of the steaks). If you prefer a more prolonged cooking, you can leave them for a few more minutes, but be careful not to dry out the tuna meat, which should remain moist and pink inside.
6. Remove the tuna steaks from the pan and let them rest for a short moment.
7. Serve the tuna by slicing it, if you like, into thick slices and drizzle with soy sauce and a few drops of lime juice to enhance the flavors.

Curiosity

The sesame crust that forms on the tuna not only adds crunchiness and flavor, but also helps to keep the fish meat juicy during cooking. Moreover, sesame is rich in beneficial properties, such as vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

For a completely Italian touch, consider serving the tuna with a rocket and cherry tomato salad, dressed with a little extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar, which will complement the rich savoryness of the fish with freshness and a slight touch of acidity.