Seared Ahi Tuna with Peanut Dipping Sauce

Name: Seared Ahi Tuna with Peanut Dipping Sauce
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 1 servings
Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Ingredients: 1 (6 oz) ahi tuna steak; 1 tbsp sesame oil; 1/4 cup crunchy everything seasoning; 1 tbsp blackened seasoning; 2 tbsp high-heat cooking oil; 2 tbsp Thai peanut sauce; 1 tbsp soy sauce

This seared ahi tuna features a crunchy double-seasoning crust (everything and blackened spices) seared rare in high-heat oil, paired with a tangy Thai peanut-soy dipping sauce. It comes together in under 10 minutes and delivers restaurant-quality results at home.

🌍Asian-inspired 🏷️Seared tuna 🏷️Ahi tuna 🏷️Tuna steak 🏷️Appetizer Quick recipe

🏷️

🏷️Easy dinner

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TikTok

Total

20 min

Servings

1

Difficulty

Easy

Est. Cost

$16–$26

Recipe Source

View original recipe

From TikTok

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TikTok

Ingredients

1 (6 oz) ahi tuna steak
1 tbsp sesame oil
1/4 cup crunchy everything seasoning
1 tbsp blackened seasoning
2 tbsp high-heat cooking oil
2 tbsp Thai peanut sauce
1 tbsp soy sauce

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Instructions

1
Coat the ahi tuna steak on all sides with sesame oil. This will act as a binder for the seasoning.
2
On a plate, combine the crunchy everything seasoning and the blackened seasoning. Mix them together.
3
Press the oil-coated tuna steak firmly into the seasoning mixture, ensuring an even, thick crust on all sides.
4
Preheat a skillet over high heat.
5
Add the high-heat cooking oil to the hot skillet.
6
Carefully place the crusted tuna steak in the hot pan.
7
Sear the tuna for approximately 30-60 seconds on each side. The goal is to cook the outside while leaving the center rare.
8
Once seared on all sides, remove the tuna from the pan and place it on a clean plate.
9
Chill the seared tuna in the refrigerator or freezer for about 10 minutes to stop the cooking process and make it easier to slice.
10
While the tuna chills, prepare the dipping sauce by combining Thai peanut sauce and soy sauce in a small bowl. Stir until well mixed.
11
Remove the chilled tuna and, using a sharp knife, slice it against the grain into 1/4-inch thick pieces.
12
Serve the sliced ahi tuna with the peanut dipping sauce.

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Tips & Notes

Pro tips

Pat the ahi tuna completely dry before seasoning—moisture prevents proper crust formation and searing.
Use high-heat cooking oil (avocado or grapeseed) and preheat the pan until it shimmers; this is critical for a golden crust in just 1–2 minutes per side.
Don't overcrowd the pan and avoid moving the tuna once it hits the oil—let it sear undisturbed for maximum crust development.
Sear rare for tender, buttery texture; ahi tuna is best served rare to medium-rare (110–125°F internal temp).

Substitutions

Everything seasoning → furikake or gomashio (nori and sesame blend for a lighter, less salty crust)
Thai peanut sauce → almond or tahini-based sauce (nut-free or sesame alternative with soy and lime)
Soy sauce → tamari (gluten-free option)
Sesame oil → neutral high-heat oil in the dipping sauce (preserves Thai flavor while reducing richness)

Storage & make-ahead

Refrigerate leftover seared ahi in an airtight container up to 2 days; best served cold or gently reheated at 350°F for 3–5 minutes.

Common Questions

How do you know when ahi tuna is done searing?

Sear 1–2 minutes per side over high heat. The exterior should be golden-brown and crusted while the center remains rare and cool (translucent pink). Use an instant-read thermometer: 110–115°F for rare.

Can you make this with frozen ahi tuna?

Yes, but thaw it completely and pat dry before seasoning. Pat-drying removes surface moisture, which is essential for a good sear and crust.

What can you substitute for the peanut dipping sauce?

Try soy sauce with sesame oil, or a spicy mayo (mayo + sriracha + lime). The sauce should be tangy and savory to balance the fish.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Check your seasoning blends and soy sauce; most everything and blackened seasonings are gluten-free, but soy sauce often contains wheat. Substitute tamari for soy to make it fully gluten-free.

How should you store leftover seared ahi?

Refrigerate in an airtight container up to 2 days. Serve cold or reheat gently in a 350°F oven for 3–5 minutes to avoid overcooking. Best served the same day.