Imagine transforming your kitchen into a gourmet Japanese restaurant with just a few simple ingredients and some culinary magic! These Sesame Crusted Tuna Rice Bowls are not just a meal, but a sensory experience that will transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Tokyo. With a perfect balance of crispy sesame-crusted tuna, perfectly cooked rice, and bold Asian-inspired flavors, this dish is guaranteed to impress even the most discerning food lovers.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Japanese
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- Tuna steaks (2)
- Sesame seeds (1/4 cup)
- Cooked rice (1 cup)
- Soy sauce (2 tablespoons)
- Wasabi (to taste)
- Pickled ginger (for serving)
- Scallions (for garnish)
Instructions
- Pat the tuna steaks completely dry with paper towels to ensure proper sesame seed adhesion and even searing.
- Season the tuna steaks with salt and pepper, then generously coat both sides with sesame seeds, pressing gently to help seeds adhere to the surface.
- Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan over high heat until it's extremely hot and just starting to smoke.
- Add a small amount of high-heat oil like grapeseed or canola to the pan, swirling to coat the bottom evenly.
- Carefully place the sesame-crusted tuna steaks into the hot pan, cooking for approximately 30-45 seconds on each side to achieve a golden-brown crust while keeping the center rare.
- Remove tuna from heat and let rest for 1-2 minutes to allow internal temperature to stabilize.
- Divide warm cooked rice between two serving bowls, creating an even base.
- Slice the seared tuna steaks against the grain into thin strips or medallions.
- Arrange tuna slices artfully over the rice, drizzling with soy sauce.
- Garnish with thinly sliced scallions, a dollop of wasabi, and pickled ginger on the side.
- Serve immediately while tuna is still warm and sesame crust is crisp.
Tips
- Tuna Selection: Choose sushi-grade, fresh tuna steaks for the best flavor and safe rare preparation.
- Dryness is Key: Thoroughly pat the tuna steaks dry to ensure the sesame seeds stick perfectly and create a crisp crust.
- High Heat is Critical: Use a cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan and heat it until just smoking for the perfect sear.
- Timing Matters: Cook the tuna for only 30-45 seconds per side to maintain a rare, tender center while creating a golden sesame crust.
- Let it Rest: Allow the tuna to rest briefly after cooking to help the internal temperature stabilize and juices redistribute.
- Garnish Generously: Fresh scallions, wasabi, and pickled ginger aren't just garnishes - they're flavor enhancers that elevate the entire dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 360kcal
Carbohydrates: 29g
Protein: 32g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 60mg
