Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something delicious, healthy, and surprisingly quick to make? Then look no further! This spicy ahi tuna recipe is your answer. It's a burst of fresh flavors, perfectly balanced spice, and a fantastic way to elevate a simple weeknight meal into a restaurant-worthy experience. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this easy recipe, perfect for busy weeknights or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound sushi-grade ahi tuna steak, cut into 1-inch thick pieces
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (or more, to taste!)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 green onion, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)
- Cooked rice or quinoa, for serving
Instructions:
Get started: Prepare your marinade by combining soy sauce, sesame oil, sriracha, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic in a small bowl. Whisk everything together until well combined.
Marinate the tuna: Place the ahi tuna pieces in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring all sides are coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator for maximum flavor.
Sear the tuna: Heat a large skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat. Add a little extra sesame oil to the pan if needed. Once hot, carefully place the tuna steaks in the pan. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer for your desired level of doneness. Remember that tuna cooks quickly!
Serve it up: Remove the tuna from the pan and let it rest for a couple of minutes before slicing it against the grain. Serve immediately over cooked rice or quinoa, garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Spicy Ahi Tuna:
- Use sushi-grade tuna: This is crucial for safety. Sushi-grade tuna is frozen to kill any parasites, making it safe to eat raw or lightly seared.
- Don't overcook: Overcooked tuna will be dry and tough. Aim for medium-rare for the best texture and flavor.
- Adjust the spice: Feel free to adjust the amount of sriracha to your liking. If you prefer less heat, start with a teaspoon and add more as needed.
- Rest the tuna: Letting the tuna rest after searing allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
Variations:
- Add some zest: Include a squeeze of lime or lemon juice to the marinade for a brighter, citrusy flavor.
- Get creative with the garnish: Try adding avocado slices, chopped cilantro, or a sprinkle of toasted seaweed flakes for extra texture and flavor.
- Make it a bowl: Serve the seared tuna over a bed of mixed greens, with your favorite vegetables like edamame, shredded carrots, or cucumber. Drizzle with a light vinaigrette for a complete and healthy meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes.
- Calories: Approximately 300-400
- Protein: High
- Fat: Moderate
- Carbohydrates: Low (depending on serving size of rice or quinoa)
This spicy ahi tuna recipe is a delicious and healthy addition to your recipe collection. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s packed with flavor and perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something special without the fuss. Enjoy!