Black Sesame Seared Ahi Tuna

Steve Mazzotta, Assistant Manager of Hill’s Quality Seafood - Newtown Square, shares his original recipe for Black Sesame Seared Ahi Tuna.

Ingredients:

• Two 6 - 8 oz. Ahi Tuna Steaks

• 2 - 4 tbsp. black sesame seeds

• 1 tbsp. chipotle chili powder

• 1 tbsp. cayenne powder (optional)

• 2 tsp. kosher salt and black pepper

• 2 crushed garlic cloves

• Ashman Sesame Teriyaki Sauce

• 3 tbsp. olive oil

Directions:

1. For a lighter dusting of sesame seeds, use 2 tbsp. rather than 4. In a small bowl, mix together black sesame seeds, chipotle chili powder, cayenne pepper (skip if sensitive to spice), kosher salt, and black pepper until well combined.

2. Coat each tuna steak thoroughly with 1 tbsp. of olive oil. Firmly roll each steak in the now-seasoned sesame seeds ensuring all sides are covered. Sprinkle any leftover seasoning mix over top of the steaks and pat them in.

3. Pour 1 tbsp. of olive oil and crushed garlic cloves into a pan. Preheat on medium high heat until the oil starts smoking.

4. To reach medium cooked tuna, add the steaks and sear in the oil for 2 minutes. Flip and sear for 1 additional minute. Baste the tops of the tuna steaks with the oil in the pan for the last minute the steaks cook.

5. Let the steaks rest on a place for 5 minutes. While waiting, garnish your plate with Ashman Sesame Teriyaki sauce.

Recipe originated by Steve Mazzotta, Hill’s Quality Seafood Newtown Square