Delicious Ahi Tuna Recipe: Vegetable Stir-Fry
You don’t need to be a sushi aficionado to fall head over heels in love with seared ahi tuna. That stunning slab of fish adorned with crispy, crusty sesame seeds is enough to make your mouth water just thinking about it. But imagine the tender and buttery flavor of a perfectly seared piece of tuna paired with a medley of stir-fried vegetables bursting with color and flavor. This Ahi Tuna with Vegetable Stir-Fry recipe is a dish that you can whip up in no time for an impressive weeknight dinner or even entertain guests at your next gathering.
Are you always intimidated by cooking fish at home? Don’t fret! I’ll guide you on how to attain that perfect medium-rare seafood without breaking a sweat. This dish also packs some necessary heat that will wake up your taste buds while still being delicate enough to let the flavors of fresh veggies shine through.
Serve this Ahi Tuna with Vegetable Stir-Fry on steaming rice, fried rice, or noodles. Or opt to enjoy it as a standalone whenever you’re feeling like treating yourself to something special yet easy to put together. Get ready for compliments galore because this recipe has got everything you’ll ever want in a meal – quick, uncomplicated, and certainly delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Let me tell you, folks, this recipe is the bee’s knees! If you’re looking for a dish that’s full of flavor and quick to make, then look no further than this Ahi Tuna with Vegetable Stir-Fry recipe.
First off, let’s talk about the star of the show: the Ahi tuna steaks. These babies are seared to perfection on high heat, giving them a beautifully crispy exterior while keeping them nice and tender on the inside. And the best part? The sesame seeds that are sprinkled on top give each bite a delightful crunch that will make your taste buds sing.
But wait, it’s not just about the tuna in this dish. The vegetable stir-fry accompanying it is a symphony of colors and textures. Thinly sliced carrot, baby bok choy, and green cabbage are stir-fried until they’re crispy-tender and coated in a delectable sauce made from reduced sodium soy sauce and oyster sauce. And let’s not forget about those green onions – they add just the right amount of zing to tie everything together.
What’s more, this recipe is incredibly customizable – you can switch up the veggies to suit your taste or whatever’s in season. And if you’re feeling extra fancy, consider swapping out regular sesame seeds for some black sesame seeds or even crusting your tuna with them instead.
So if you’re looking for a dish that will impress your dinner guests without taking up too much of your time and energy, then look no further than this Ahi Tuna with Vegetable Stir-Fry recipe. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredient List
- 4-6 Ahi tuna steaks (1-1.5 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce, divided
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup low sodium chicken broth
- 1 inch ginger, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, sliced
- 4 cups mixed vegetables such as sliced green cabbage, baby bok choy, thinly sliced carrot, sliced bamboo shoots, and sliced mushrooms.
- 2 green onions, trimmed and sliced into 1-inch pieces
- 1/4 cup sesame seeds
- 1 tablespoon dark sesame oil + 1 -2 tablespoons vegetable oil for cooking
Notes:
For the vegetables, you can use any combination you like. I recommend using vegetables that have different textures and flavors to keep the dish interesting. You can also add shrimp or other seafood to the stir-fry for a seafood version.
Pro-tip: when slicing the vegetables, make sure they are all about the same size so they cook evenly.
The Recipe How-To
Now it’s time to get our hands dirty and dive into the recipe how-to. This recipe is perfect for a dinner party or a romantic night in, and it’s sure to impress your guests with its restaurant-quality presentation.
Preparing the Ahi Tuna Steaks
To begin, make sure your ahi tuna steaks are at room temperature before cooking. Pat them dry with a paper towel, then sprinkle both sides with salt and pepper. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of canola oil. When the pan is hot, place the steaks in carefully and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side (depending on thickness) for a perfectly medium-rare sear. Once cooked, remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes.
Stir-Frying the Vegetables
While the fish is resting, heat a wok or large skillet over high heat with 1 tablespoon of canola or vegetable oil. Add thinly sliced carrot, green onions, baby bok choy, and green cabbage to the pan (optional: also add sliced mushrooms). Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are slightly softened but still have some crunch.
Making the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce, and 1/4 cup of low-sodium chicken broth until combined. Pour this mixture over the stir-fried vegetables in the pan, tossing everything around until well coated.
Serving Your Dish
On each plate (or on one large platter), place a handful of sesame seeds at the center. Then, adroitly arrange sliced Ahi tuna steak atop of it with a vegetable stir-fry surrounding it. Serve immediately and savor every bite.
Now you know how to cook up some mouthwatering Ahi Tuna Steaks with Vegetable Stir-Fry like a pro! Remember to follow these instructions closely in order to ensure that your dish turns out perfectly every time.
Substitutions and Variations
Just like in any recipe, there are numerous substitutions and variations that you can make to create a unique flavor profile for your Ahi Tuna with Vegetable Stir-Fry. Here are some suggestions for you to try:
– Sesame Seeds: Instead of using sesame seeds, you could opt for black sesame seeds to give your dish a little contrast in color. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try using chia seeds or flaxseeds.
– Ahi Tuna Steaks: If you can’t find Ahi Tuna Steaks or don’t like them, feel free to use other types of tuna steaks or even salmon fillets.
– Rice Vinegar: You could substitute the rice vinegar with white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a tangy twist.
– Butter: Switch out butter for olive oil or coconut oil to make this recipe dairy-free.
– Low Sodium Chicken Broth: A vegetable broth can be used instead of low sodium chicken broth if preferred.
– Reduced Sodium Soy Sauce and Oyster Sauce: You can balance the sodium content by using low sodium soy sauce instead of regular reduced sodium soy sauce. To cut back on salt intake, simply exclude the oyster sauce from the recipe or replace it with hoisin sauce instead.
– The Vegetables: The vegetables used in this recipe are not set in stone. Try adding garlic, ginger, red pepper flakes, and diced onions to switch up the flavor. Instead of bok choy, use asparagus, bell peppers or snow peas. If green cabbage is not available, try napa cabbage or savoy cabbage. Play around with different textures by adding crispy bamboo shoots and sprouts.
– Serving and Pairings: Ahi Tuna Vegetable Stir Fry goes well with bamboo rice, soba noodle salad, fried rice or even enjoyed as delicious vessels in rice bowls, sandwiches and wraps.
With these variations and substitutions in mind, you will have a broad range of options to build on the already great flavors of this dish to suit your taste buds any given day.
Serving and Pairing
When it comes to serving and pairing this Ahi Tuna with Vegetable Stir-Fry recipe, there are various options that will not only complement the dish but also provide an exciting element to your meal.
One of my favorite ways to serve this dish is on a bed of bamboo rice. The nuttiness of the rice pairs perfectly with the slightly sweet and savory flavors of the stir-fried vegetables and succulent ahi tuna.
If you’re looking for a more substantial meal, you can serve this recipe with some additional side dishes, such as fried rice or rice bowls. The flavors blend together seamlessly giving your taste buds an explosion of different flavors.
Furthermore, this tuna vegetable stir-fry is teaming with bold flavors making it ideal for pairing with a light-bodied white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. Or if you prefer beer instead, consider pairing it with an IPA that has citrus notes.
If you fancy a non-alcoholic beverage, don’t fret. A glass of freshly squeezed orange juice or iced green tea will work just as well with this wonderful dish.
Overall, the combination possibilities with Ahi Tuna With Vegetable Stir-Fry Recipe are endless! Don’t be afraid to mix new things up, and see where it takes you.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Listen, when it comes to cooking, sometimes you just want to get ahead of the game. And that’s absolutely fine, because being prepared can mean the difference between a spectacular meal and a mediocre one. Lucky for you, this Ahi Tuna with Vegetable Stir-Fry Recipe is perfect for making ahead of time. Simply sear your tuna steaks and fry your veggies in advance, then store them in separate airtight containers until you’re ready to reheat and devour.
Storing food hasn’t always been my strong point, but let me tell you what I’ve learned over the years: properly stored food means better tasting leftovers. For the vegetables, don’t let them sit in their own juices or they’ll become soggy, no one wants that. Instead, transfer them to an airtight container and allow them to cool completely before placing them in the fridge for up to 3 days.
As for the ahi tuna steaks, I recommend storing them separately with a piece of wax paper or parchment paper in between each steak to avoid sticking. Store them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the veggies in a skillet over medium-high heat until they’re hot, then sear the tuna steaks for 1-2 minutes on each side until warmed through.
Look at it this way: planning ahead means less time spent cooking and more time spent enjoying your meal with friends and family. And as an added bonus, you can feel good about not wasting any perfectly good leftovers too!
Tips for Perfect Results
Now, let’s talk about how you can ensure a perfect result for this Ahi Tuna With Vegetable Stir-Fry recipe. As with any recipe, there are some tips and tricks that can help you achieve the best flavor and texture possible.
Firstly, make sure your pan is very hot before adding the tuna steaks. This ensures a perfect sear on the outside while keeping the inside of the tuna tender and rare.
Another tip is to slice your vegetables thinly and uniformly to ensure they cook evenly in the stir-fry. You can even invest in a mandoline slicer for this task if you desire.
Additionally, if you want to add some heat to your dish, try adding some sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to your vegetable stir-fry. This will add a spicy kick that pairs wonderfully with the flavors of the tuna steak.
Finally, don’t forget to sprinkle on some toasted sesame seeds at the end of cooking for a beautiful and flavorful finishing touch. The nutty flavor of sesame seeds goes perfectly with the Asian-inspired flavors of this dish.
By following these simple tips, you’ll be able to create a stunning Ahi Tuna With Vegetable Stir-Fry dish that your guests will remember long after they leave your party.
Bottom Line
: Why settle for a boring dinner when you can create new experiences and thrill your taste buds with this Ahi Tuna With Vegetable Stir-Fry Recipe? As a home chef, you need to explore different ingredients and cooking methods to keep your culinary journey exciting. The Ahi Tuna With Vegetable Stir-Fry Recipe is one of those dishes that will awe your guests with its delectable flavors and textures.
With a combination of sesame seeds, reduced sodium soy sauce, and oyster sauce, the savory and spicy taste of the dish will leave a lasting impression on your palate. The crispy outside of the seared Ahi tuna steaks contrasts with the tender texture inside, making it an unforgettable experience.
You’ll appreciate how easy and convenient it is to prepare this meal for a quick dinner or an elaborate gathering. You only require a few ingredients and some chopping skills to stir fry your vegetable side dish. Additionally, the recipe’s versatility allows room for substitutions or variations that are tailored to your preferences.
The Ahi Tuna With Vegetable Stir-Fry Recipe comes packed with numerous health benefits that make it ideal for a well-rounded diet. The tuna is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins B6 and B12, phosphorus, and potassium essential for various body functions. The vegetables’ fiber content helps maintain healthy digestion and weight management.
In conclusion, the Ahi Tuna With Vegetable Stir-Fry Recipe is an excellent choice if you want to add excitement to your mealtime routine. By following the recipe’s instructions and incorporating some of our tips and recommendations, you can elevate your cooking game and unleash your creativity in the kitchen. Let this recipe be a gateway into Asian-inspired meals like sesame crusted tuna teriyaki stir-fry, tuna shrimp vegetable stir fry sesame bok choy, soba noodle salad, rice bowls, shaved red cabbage salad with miso sesame ginger dressing or any other dish that awakens your culinary senses.
Ahi Tuna With Vegetable Stir-Fry Recipe
Ingredients
- 5 1/2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 4 cups green cabbage (about 8 ounces)
- 3 ounces fresh shiitake mushrooms, stemmed, caps sliced
- 1 baby bok choy, very thinly sliced (about 3 ounces)
- 1 large carrot, cut into matchstick-size strips (about 3 ounces)
- 4 green onions, thinly sliced
- 6 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 3 1/2 tablespoons reduced sodium soy sauce
- 3/4 cup chicken stock or 3/4 cup canned low sodium chicken broth
- 1/4 cup butter, 1/2 stick
- 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 36 ounces ahi tuna steaks, each about 3/4 inch thick
- sesame seeds, black and white (optional)
Instructions
- Heat 2 tablespoons oil in heavy large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add cabbage, mushrooms, bok choy, carrot and green onions and stir-fry until vegetables are crisp-tender, about 3 minutes.
- Add 3 tablespoons oyster sauce and 3 tablespoons soy sauce; stir 1 minute to blend flavors.
- Season to taste with salt and pepper.
- Transfer vegetable mixture to medium bowl.
- To same skillet (do not clean) add the broth, 1/2 tablespoon oil, remaining 3 tablespoons oyster sauce, remaining 1/2 tablespoon soy sauce, butter and vinegar.
- Boil until sauce thickens, whisking occasionally, about 3 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Keep warm.
- Sprinkle tuna with salt and pepper.
- Heat remaining 3 tablespoons oil in another large skillet over high heat.
- Add 3 tuna steaks and cook to desired doneness, about 2 minutes per side for medium-rare.
- Transfer to small baking sheet.
- Repeat with remaining tuna.
- Divide vegetables among 6 plates.
- Top with tuna.
- Ladle sauce around tuna.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds, if desired.
Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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Anna is a culinary expert who specializes in grilling delicious BBQ dishes. She also enjoys sharing her recipes and experiences with her foodie community on her blog. She’s the total package for any backyard barbecue!