Seared Tuna Steaks with Sesame Crust: A Kamado Grill Delight

When it comes to quick, sophisticated grilling, few dishes are as striking as seared tuna steaks with a sesame crust. With vibrant colour, a nutty crust, and a delicate rare centre, this recipe turns fresh tuna into a gourmet meal in minutes. Best of all, it’s simple to prepare on a kamado grill like the ones from Vessils Kamado Grills.

Whether you’re planning a light summer dinner, an elegant appetizer, or a show-stopping plate for guests, mastering how to make seared tuna steaks with sesame crust will instantly elevate your grilling repertoire.

Essential Ingredients and Equipment

Ingredients:

• High-quality ahi or yellowfin tuna steaks (about 1 inch thick)

• Equal parts white and black sesame seeds

• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

• High-smoke-point oil (grapeseed or avocado)

• Optional: soy sauce, wasabi, or citrus dipping sauce

Tools & Gear:

• Heavy cast iron skillet or clean hot cooking grid (Cooking Grid for Vessils Kamado Grill)

• Vessils Kamado Grill for consistent high heat

• High-heat tongs

• Cutting board and sharp knife

• Shallow dish for sesame seeds

• Optional: Electronic Thermometer

Preparing the Tuna for Searing

Freshness is key. Choose firm, translucent red tuna steaks and pat them dry with paper towels. In a shallow dish, combine equal parts black and white sesame seeds. Press the tuna steaks firmly into the seeds, coating both sides evenly. Light seasoning with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper will enhance flavour without overpowering the delicate fish.

(Optional) Lightly brush with soy sauce before coating for an extra layer of umami.

Mastering the Sear

Grill Setup:

• Preheat your Vessils Kamado Grill to 600°F for high-heat searing.

• Place a cast iron skillet directly on the grates or use a well-oiled, clean cooking grid.

• Allow the skillet to heat thoroughly.

Searing Instructions:

• Add a small amount of grapeseed or avocado oil to the skillet.

• Place the sesame-coated tuna steaks into the pan.

• Sear for 45 seconds to 1 minute per side for rare doneness.

• Aim for a crispy sesame crust while keeping the centre vibrantly rare.

• Avoid overcooking — the interior should remain tender and cool.

Monitor heat closely for optimal results. For more searing tips, check out our Beginner’s Guide to Char-Grilling.

Slicing and Serving Suggestions

After searing, let the tuna steaks rest for a minute or two. Then, slice against the grain into ¼-inch thick slices.

Serving ideas:

• Over a crisp arugula salad with citrus vinaigrette

• Alongside steamed jasmine or sushi rice

• As part of a sushi or poke bowl

• With a side of grilled vegetables

• Accompanied by pickled ginger, soy sauce, and wasabi

Optional garnishes: a drizzle of sesame oil, chopped green onions, or a sprinkle of seaweed flakes.

Tips for Tuna Perfection

• Choose sushi-grade, centre-cut tuna for best results.

• Maintain a scorching-hot grill or skillet for an ideal quick sear.

• Use an Electronic Thermometer if you're unsure — rare tuna should reach about 115–120°F internally.

• Mix black and white sesame seeds for better colour contrast.

• Experiment with spice blends like togarashi for an extra kick.

For more insights into slicing and prepping seafood, stay tuned for our upcoming blog: How to Slice Fish for Grilling!

Elevating Your Seafood Experience

Ready to impress at your next backyard gathering? This seared tuna steak with sesame seeds recipe is elegant, healthy, and lightning fast to make. Explore more recipes in our Recipes Blog Hub, or check out Grill Accessories to level up your grilling skills. Want even better control over searing temperatures? Upgrade your setup with a Vessils Poco Kamado Charcoal Grill Set 13" W — perfect for seafood and quick high-heat cooking.

Happy grilling! Share your sesame-crusted tuna steak creations with us on social media — we’d love to see them!