Entrée: Japan – マグロのたたき ▶ Maguro no Tataki (Seared Tuna)

Serving Size: 2

Approximate Time

Prep 10 min

Cook 4 min

Additional 2 min

Total 14 min

Ingredients

2 tuna fillets (6–8 oz / 170–225 g each), sashimi-grade
3 tbsp white and black sesame seeds, mixed
1 small cucumber, thinly sliced
1 medium carrot, julienned
2 green onions, thinly sliced
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tsp sesame oil
1 tbsp neutral oil (for searing)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Pat tuna fillets dry and season lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Press both sides of fillets into the sesame seeds to form an even crust.
3. Heat neutral oil in a heavy skillet over high heat until shimmering.
4. Sear tuna 1–1½ minutes per side for rare (adjust time for desired doneness); remove and let rest 2 minutes, then slice thinly.
5. Meanwhile whisk soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil and a pinch of pepper to make the dressing.
6. Toss cucumber, julienned carrot and green onions with the dressing.
7. Serve sliced tuna over the salad, garnish with extra sesame seeds.