Textual Chef

Air Fryer Sesame Crusted Tuna

Restaurant-quality tuna steaks coated in a flavorful sesame crust and air-fried to perfection. Crispy on the outside while maintaining a tender, medium-rare center.

16 minMediumServes 2325 cal/serving

Asian FusionDinnerAir FryerPescatarianHigh ProteinDairy-Free

Ingredients

  • 2 (12 oz) ahi tuna steaks (1-inch thick), patted dry
  • 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
  • 1/4 cup mixed white and black sesame seeds
  • 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 clove garlic clove, minced
  • 2 scallions, thinly sliced
  • 1 ripe avocado, sliced
  • 1 tsp wasabi paste (optional)

Instructions

  1. 1

    In a shallow dish, combine 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce, 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil, 1 tbsp fresh lime juice, 1 tsp grated fresh ginger, and 1 clove minced garlic clove.

  2. 2

    Pat 2 (12 oz) patted dry ahi tuna steaks (1-inch thick) dry with paper towels and place them in the marinade. Let them marinate for 5 minutes, turning once.

  3. 3

    Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C).

  4. 4

    Pour 1/4 cup mixed white and black sesame seeds onto a plate. Remove the tuna from the marinade and press each side into the sesame seeds to form a crust.

  5. 5

    Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil spray. Place the tuna steaks in the air fryer basket, making sure they don't overlap.

  6. 6

    Cook for 2-3 minutes for rare to medium-rare (recommended for ahi tuna), or 4-5 minutes for medium. Do not overcook as the tuna will become dry.

  7. 7

    While the tuna is cooking, arrange 1 sliced ripe avocado on serving plates.

  8. 8

    Remove the tuna from the air fryer and let it rest for 1 minute.

  9. 9

    Slice the tuna against the grain into 1/2-inch thick slices.

  10. 10

    Arrange the sliced tuna over the avocado, garnish with 2 thinly sliced scallions, and serve with 1 tsp wasabi paste (optional) on the side if desired.

  11. 11

    For food safety, ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 125°F (52°C) for rare, or your preferred doneness level.

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