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Tuna Steaks with Soy Ginger Marinade

Elina James
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine Japanese
Servings 2 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • For the Tuna Marinade:
  • 2 tuna steaks (about 150–200 g / 6 oz each, 1-inch thick)
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce (light or low-sodium)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup)
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice (or rice vinegar)
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for a kick)
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (optional)
  • For Cooking and Garnish:
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (or neutral oil like canola)
  • Sliced green onions, for garnish
  • Lime wedges, for serving
  • Extra sesame seeds, for sprinkling
  • Optional Sides:
  • Steamed jasmine rice or brown rice
  • Stir-fried vegetables (like bok choy, snow peas, or broccoli)
  • Cucumber salad or Asian slaw

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Prepare the Marinade : In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, lime juice, grated ginger, minced garlic, and chili flakes (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning — you want a balance of salty, sweet, and tangy.
  • Step 2: Marinate the Tuna : Place tuna steaks in a shallow dish or resealable bag. Pour the marinade over the tuna, making sure each piece is evenly coated. Let the tuna marinate for 20–30 minutes in the refrigerator (no longer, or the acid will begin to u0022cooku0022 the fish). Reserve 1 tablespoon of marinade for brushing later.
  • Step 3: Preheat and Sear the Tuna : Heat olive oil in a nonstick skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove tuna from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Place tuna steaks in the pan and sear for 2–3 minutes per side for a medium-rare finish (depending on thickness). For medium: 3–4 minutes per side. For well-done: 5–6 minutes per side (though tuna is best slightly pink inside). Brush lightly with the reserved marinade while cooking for added flavor.
  • Step 4: Rest and Garnish : Remove tuna from heat and let rest for 3 minutes. Slice against the grain into thick strips. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
  • Step 5: Serve : Serve tuna steaks over jasmine rice or alongside stir-fried vegetables. Drizzle a bit of the remaining marinade over the top or squeeze fresh lime juice for brightness.