Get ready to transform your taco night with an epic fusion of Asian and Mexican cuisines that will make your taste buds dance! These Sesame Crusted Ahi Tuna Tacos are not just a meal, they're a culinary adventure that combines the delicate, rich flavor of perfectly seared ahi tuna with the crisp crunch of sesame seeds and the bright, zesty notes of a lime-soy dressing. In just 25 minutes, you'll create restaurant-quality tacos that are guaranteed to impress even the most discerning food lovers.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Asian-Mexican Fusion
Serves: 6 tacos
Ingredients
- 2 Ahi tuna steaks
- 1/4 cup sesame seeds
- 6 corn tortillas
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 cup cabbage, shredded
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
Instructions
- Pat the Ahi tuna steaks dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, ensuring a crisp sesame crust.
- Pour sesame seeds onto a flat plate and season with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Gently press each tuna steak into the sesame seeds, coating all sides evenly.
- Heat a cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over high heat. Add a small amount of neutral cooking oil with a high smoke point like grapeseed or canola.
- Sear the sesame-crusted tuna for approximately 30-45 seconds on each side, creating a golden crust while keeping the center rare. The internal temperature should remain around 125°F for medium-rare.
- Remove tuna from heat and let rest for 2-3 minutes. Then slice thinly against the grain using a sharp knife.
- Warm corn tortillas on a griddle or in a dry skillet for 15-20 seconds per side to enhance their flavor and flexibility.
- Whisk together soy sauce and lime juice to create a quick dressing for the tacos.
- Assemble tacos by layering shredded cabbage, sliced avocado, and thinly sliced sesame-crusted tuna on each tortilla.
- Drizzle the soy-lime dressing over the tacos and serve immediately while tuna is still warm.
Tips
- Always use fresh, sushi-grade ahi tuna for the best flavor and food safety.
- Pat the tuna completely dry before coating with sesame seeds to ensure a crispy, golden crust.
- Use a cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan for the most even, high-heat searing.
- Cook the tuna briefly to maintain its buttery, rare center - overcooking will make it tough.
- Toast your sesame seeds beforehand for an extra nutty flavor dimension.
- Warm tortillas just before serving to enhance their texture and prevent cracking.
- Slice the tuna against the grain for the most tender, melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 35mg
