Weekend cooking is all about treating yourself. Sometimes, that indulgence comes in the form of an intensely chocolatey dessert, but often, for me, it’s about purchasing ingredients I don’t usually use for every day cooking. Fresh, sushi-grade tuna definitely fits that category. It’s relatively expensive, but a lovely splurge to enjoy every now and then when you want dinner to feel extra special.
When you’re dealing with good quality fish, the best way to enjoy it is to cook it simply, without too much fussing about, so the fish remains the star of the show. One of my favourite ways to cook tuna is to create a crust on the outside of the fish using golden, crunchy, sesame seeds. They give the fish great flavour and texture, and make a perfect contrast to the soft and velvety bright red centre within. You want to sear the tuna on high heat to form that nice crust while making sure to leave the interior untouched.
I love serving the tuna over cold soba noodles, that I toss with a little sesame oil, soy sauce and thinly sliced green onions. To round off the plate, I add some fresh avocado, a small handful of greens and lime wedges.
Sesame Crusted Tuna and Soba Noodle Bowls
Serves 2
300g sushi-grade tuna
Vegetable oil
Salt and freshly ground pepper
2 tbsp sesame seeds
Brush tuna with a little vegetable oil; sprinkle generously with salt and pepper. Sprinkle with sesame seeds, pressing lightly to adhere. Heat a good drizzle of oil over medium high heat; cook tuna for 2-4 minutes on all sides. Remove to cutting board; let cool slightly. Using sharp knife, cut into slices.
Serve with cooked, cold soba noodles seasoned with a little sesame oil, soy sauce and toasted sesame seeds as well as a handful of greens, fresh avocado and lime wedges.
Nazia @ Your Sunny Side Up
September 8, 2014 at 1:51 pm (10 years ago)The dish looks amazing! I’ve never tried tuna with a sesame crust before.
Jennifer Bartoli
September 8, 2014 at 8:41 pm (10 years ago)It’s a simple way to cook tuna but it gives it amazing flavour and texture. Let me know what you think if you give it a try!
Kristi @ Inspiration Kitchen
September 12, 2014 at 7:57 am (10 years ago)Confession time ~ I have never had fresh tuna. 🙂 But, I hear it’s absolutely fabulous, so I definitely need to try it. And this looks sssooo good!
Liz
September 13, 2014 at 9:43 pm (10 years ago)Oh, your noodle bowls look sublime! I just made tuna ceviche with avocados and mangoes…and now I’m craving more tuna!
Arpita@ The Gastronomic Bong
September 16, 2014 at 4:57 pm (10 years ago)The noodle bowl looks phenomenal! I am yet to try fresh tuna fish and you have totally persuaded me to.. Love this fab dish.. 😀
Sarah @ SnixyKitchen
October 23, 2014 at 3:29 am (10 years ago)Sushi grade tuna is my favorite indulgence. Seared with the crispy sesame seeds is just perfect! I love the idea of tossing it over soba noodles with some fresh avocado.
sugar punk
January 29, 2015 at 9:12 pm (10 years ago)This is a new favorite meal in our home. Absolutely delicious, simple to prepare. Many thanks for sharing your fabulous dinner.