Ruth’s Chris Ahi Tuna Recipe

Seared ahi tuna with a crisp, sesame-coated crust and a tender, ruby-red center is something I never get tired of.

And I’ll show you WHY, with Ruth’s Chris Restaurant’s version!

The trick to getting that beautiful contrast is a super hot pan—cast iron is my go-to for the best sear.

Fresh, sushi-grade tuna is essential since it’s barely cooked, so don’t settle for anything less than top-quality fish.

I like serving it with a light ginger sauce that cuts through the richness and balances everything out.

A short cook time is the key—more than a minute per side, and you’ll lose that melt-in-your-mouth texture!

How to Make Ruth’s Chris Ahi Tuna

Ingredients

• 26 oz Ahi Tuna
• 1 tbsp Fresh Ginger
• 1 tbsp Lime Juice
• 2 tbsp Soy Sauce
• 1 tbsp Ground Mustard
• 2 tbsp Dijon Mustard
• 1/2 tbsp Black Sesame Seeds
• 1/2 tbsp White Sesame Seeds
• 1 tsp Blackening Seasoning
• 1/2 oz Canola Oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Mix ground mustard and dijon mustard in a small bowl to create a paste.

Step 2:

Coat the Ahi tuna steaks with soy sauce and the mustard paste evenly on all sides.

Step 3:

Combine black and white sesame seeds in a shallow dish.

Press the coated tuna into the seeds until thoroughly covered.

Step 4:

Heat canola oil in a pan over medium-high heat until hot.

Place the tuna in the pan and sear each side for about 1-2 minutes.

Step 5:

Remove the tuna from the pan.

Allow it to rest for a minute before slicing into thin pieces.

Serve with lime juice and fresh ginger on the side.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Choose Fresh Ahi Tuna

Start with the freshest Ahi tuna you can find for the best flavor and texture.

Check with your local fishmonger for the best options if needed.

Balancing the Mustard Paste

Play around with the amount of ground and dijon mustard to suit your taste.

Start with equal parts, then adjust it according to your preferences.

Oil Temperature

Make sure the oil is hot before placing the tuna in the pan.

If it’s too cold, the tuna will absorb more oil and not sear properly.

Resting Time

Letting the tuna rest after searing helps the juices redistribute evenly.

This makes each bite moist and flavorful.

Enjoy making this recipe, and have fun experimenting with flavors!

What to Serve with Ruth’s Chris Ahi Tuna Recipe

Lemon Drizzled Vegetables

You can’t go wrong with a vibrant variety of stir-fried peppers and onions drizzled with fresh lemon juice.

The citrusy zest complements the rich flavors of ahi tuna perfectly.

These bright veggies not only add color to your plate but also provide a refreshing contrast to the fish.

Soy Ginger Broccoli

Broccoli sautéed with a mix of soy sauce and ginger can turn a simple meal into something special.

This savory combination matches wonderfully with the tuna.

Plus, the crunch of the broccoli adds some great texture to your meal.

Roasted Baby Potatoes

If you lean towards a more traditional side, roasted baby potatoes are a fantastic choice.

Simple yet tasty, these potatoes are seasoned with garlic and herbs.

The crispiness of the potatoes offers a nice contrast to the tender tuna.

Asian-Inspired Coleslaw

A coleslaw infused with sesame oil, a hint of soy sauce, and shredded cabbage offers a little crunch alongside your tuna.

It’s usually not the first thing that comes to mind, but trust me, it works brilliantly together.

Wasabi Mashed Potatoes

For a twist on the classic, whip up some wasabi mashed potatoes.

The subtle heat from the wasabi pairs surprisingly well with ahi tuna.

They’re creamy and soft, yet have just enough of a kick to keep things interesting on your plate.

Variations and Substitutions

There are a few creative twists to add your own touch to this dish.

One of my favorite ways to switch things up is by using different marinades.

Alternative Marinades

If you’re in the mood for something tangy, use an orange-soy marinade.

Feeling adventurous? A ginger-lime dressing gives a fresh and zesty taste!

Different Spices

You can try other spice blends to change the flavor profile of your tuna.

Adding a pinch of cumin or coriander can give the tuna an earthy, warm note.

Substitute Ingredients

If you’re out of ahi tuna, try substituting with yellowfin tuna for a similar taste.

For those avoiding soy, coconut aminos are a great alternative for a soy-based sauce.

Cooking Techniques

Try grilling the tuna instead of searing it for an extra smoky flavor.

You can opt for baking at a lower temperature if you prefer less oil or fat.

Experiment with these suggestions and you’ll find your favorite way to enjoy this tasty dish!

How to Store Leftover Ahi Tuna

When you’ve got leftover Ahi tuna from this delicious recipe, you need to store it properly to maintain its quality.

Always place the leftover tuna in an airtight container and store it in your refrigerator.

Keep the temperature at 40°F or below so it stays fresh.

Refrigeration Guidelines

Make sure to refrigerate the tuna within two hours of cooking to keep it safe to eat.

If you let it sit out longer than that, you risk bacterial growth.

To enjoy the best flavor and texture, finish the leftovers within 1-2 days.

Freezing Tips

While it’s not ideal to freeze cooked Ahi tuna, you can do it if necessary.

Wrap the tuna tightly with plastic wrap before placing it in a freezer-safe bag.

Freeze it for no more than three months to prevent freezer burn.

Thawing Advice

For thawing, always use the refrigerator for a slow and safe process.

Avoid using the microwave as it can change the texture and taste of the tuna.

With these tips, you’ll be enjoying your perfectly stored leftovers in no time!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking

You might accidentally overcook the ahi tuna steak if you’re not careful.

It’s easy to do because the steak only needs a short time in the pan.

Keep an eye on the clock and aim for a nice sear without letting the heat overstay its welcome.

Improper Seasoning

You don’t want to burden your ahi tuna with too many flavors.

Light seasoning with salt and pepper is often just enough to enhance the natural taste.

Avoid using dried herbs heavily as they can overpower the delicate tuna.

Incorrect Storage

It’s crucial to keep your tuna refrigerated until it’s time to cook.

Leaving it at room temperature for too long can lead to safety issues and affect freshness.

Consider this a non-negotiable step in preparing a successful dish.