Furikake Seared Tuna

Andrea Potischman | Aug 7, 2024

Savor the harmony of simplicity and robust flavors with furikake-seared tuna, an elegant yet easy-to-prepare dish that effortlessly marries Japanese flavors and tender, buttery tuna. Furikake, a Japanese seasoning blend of sesame seeds, seaweed, and dried fish, takes center stage, providing a savory umami kick. Coating sushi-grade ahi tuna in this magical seasoning mixture creates a delicate contrast between the flavorful seared exterior and the lush, raw interior creating a perfect blend of minimalism and flavor.

Choosing fresh, sushi-grade tuna is paramount, ensuring a dish that’s not just flavorful but safe for raw consumption. Here are some tips on what to take into consideration when buying fresh tuna:

• Color: Look for a vibrant, deep red or pink color. Fresh sushi-grade tuna should have a rich hue, indicating high-quality and well-handled fish.
• Texture: Gently press the tuna with your finger. It should feel firm and spring back, a sign of freshness. Avoid tuna that feels mushy or has an overly soft texture.
• Smell: Fresh tuna should have a clean, ocean-like scent. Avoid any fishy or ammonia-like odors, which indicate aging or poor handling.
• Luster: The tuna’s surface should glisten with natural oils. Dull or dry-looking flesh could be a sign of age or improper storage.
• Appearance of Fat: Tuna with visible marbling or fat lines is often more flavorful and tender. A good sushi-grade tuna should have a moderate amount of fat evenly distributed.
• Origin: Know the source. Sushi-grade tuna is carefully handled and frozen to specific standards to eliminate parasites. Please make sure the fish has been properly frozen to meet safety requirements.
• Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask your fishmonger or supplier about the tuna’s origin, handling, and freezing process. A reputable source will provide transparent information about the fish.

Sometimes, the simplest recipes shine the brightest, proving that less really can be more when it comes to great flavor. The furikake coating, with its bold profile, transforms the seared tuna into a sublime experience. Serve it with a zesty spicy cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast, garlic ramen noodles, or let your culinary imagination run wild, you can’t go wrong. This delightful tuna recipe offers a quick, flavorful retreat, inviting you to enjoy the elegance and flavor of Japanese-inspired cuisine at home.

Furikake Seared Tuna

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Servings:

4

Prep:

5 minutes

Cook:

5 minutes

Total:

10 minutes

Ingredients:

• 16 ounces ahi tuna, (sushi-grade)
• 1 tablespoon lemon ponzu sauce
• 1 tablespoons grapeseed oil

For the Furikake Crust:

• 3 tablespoons Furikake seasoning
• 2 tablespoons white sesame seeds
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon sugar

Directions:

1. Pat dry the tuna with paper towels and set it near your workstation.
2. For the Furikake Crust: In a medium mixing bowl add the Furikake seasoning, sesame seeds, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and sugar and mix well to blend.
3. Place tuna on a plate, and coat all sides with ponzu sauce. Sprinkle all sides of the tuna with the Furikake mixture, pressing it down into the flesh. Coat the sides.
4. Place a medium cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat, until very hot. When the pan is hot, add the oil and coat the pan. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the tuna in the pan, pressing it down with a metal spatula. Sear until golden, about 50-60 seconds. Once you see coloration, carefully flip. Sear the other side, for 60 seconds. Continue to sear the tuna on all sides using metal tongs, holding it upright as needed.
5. Place the tuna on a cutting board slice against the grain and serve with mixed greens, cucumber salad , or your favorite side dish.