blackened tuna steak recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best blackened tuna steak recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my favorite blackened tuna steak recipe. I’ve been making this dish for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. The combination of the crispy blackened crust and the tender, flaky tuna is just perfect.

And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make. I like to serve it with a side of garlic butter and a sprinkle of parsley, but feel free to get creative with your own toppings.

One thing that really sets this recipe apart is the technique involved in getting that perfect blackened crust. It’s all about using the right type of seasoning and cooking the tuna at just the right temperature. I’ve found that using a cast-iron skillet is key to achieving that perfect crust.

There’s something about the way the seasoning sticks to the pan that just can’t be replicated with other cookware. And don’t even get me started on the health benefits of this recipe! With tuna as the main protein source, you can feel good about serving this up to your family without worrying about added preservatives or sugars.

Plus, it’s a great way to get some omega-3s into your diet. My kids love helping me out in the kitchen, and this recipe is one of their favorites because it’s so easy and fun to make. We like to have family game night while we’re waiting for dinner to cook, and by the time we sit down, everyone is starving and ready for a delicious meal.

Blackened Tuna Steak

Blackened Tuna Steak

4.8 from 1021 votes

A quick and flavorful dish featuring tuna steaks coated in a smoky spice blend and seared in a hot cast iron skillet. The blackening technique creates a crisp, charred crust while keeping the inside tender and rare.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time6 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time16 mins
Servings: 2Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 320 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Blackening Spice Mix

1 tablespoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Tuna

2 tuna steaks (about 6 ounces each, 1 inch thick)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 tablespoon vegetable oil

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt.
2Stir the spice mix until evenly blended.
3Pat the tuna steaks dry with paper towels.
4Brush both sides of each steak with melted butter, then generously coat all sides with the spice mix, pressing gently to adhere.
5Place a cast iron skillet over high heat and add vegetable oil.
6Heat until the oil shimmers and a wisp of smoke appears, about 2 minutes.
7Carefully lay the seasoned tuna steaks in the hot skillet.
8Cook for 90 seconds without moving, until the bottom is deeply charred and blackened.
9Using tongs, flip the steaks and cook for another 90 seconds for rare doneness, or 2 minutes for medium-rare.
10The center should remain translucent and warm, and the exterior should be crisp and blackened.
11Transfer the steaks to a plate and let rest for 2 minutes.
12Serve immediately, with lemon wedges if desired.

🔧Equipment

Cast iron skillet
Small bowl
Tongs
Plate

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 320 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 7g❤️Cholesterol: 65mg🧂Sodium: 720mg🌾Total Carbs: 4g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 1g🥩Protein: 34g

📝Notes

For a milder heat, reduce cayenne to 1/4 teaspoon. Ensure the skillet is very hot before adding the tuna to achieve the signature blackened crust. Adjust cooking time based on steak thickness and desired doneness.

Watch Video Of How Blackened Tuna Steak Works

This blackened tuna steak recipe has become a staple in our household – it’s perfect for any occasion whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends and family. Not only does it taste amazing but it also reheats beautifully making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers.

For storage, simply place any leftover cooked tuna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. When reheating, simply place in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Blackened Tuna Steak

Q: What type of tuna should I use for this recipe?

A: For this recipe, I recommend using sashimi-grade tuna steaks. Look for ones that are at least 1 inch thick for optimal results.

Q: Can I use any type of seasoning for this recipe?

A: While you can experiment with different seasonings, I highly recommend using a traditional Cajun seasoning blend for that authentic blackened flavor.

Q: How do I ensure that my tuna steak cooks evenly?

A: To prevent overcooking or undercooking, make sure your cast-iron skillet is preheated to just above medium-high heat before adding in your tuna steak.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the seasoning blend and store it in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for special diets?

A: Yes, this recipe is gluten-free and can be adapted to fit other dietary needs such as paleo or keto.

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