Outback Steakhouse's Seared Peppered Ahi (Copycat Recipe)

This delightful recipe captures the essence of Outback Steakhouse's famous Seared Peppered Ahi. Featuring fresh tuna coated in a flavorful pepper crust and seared to perfection, this dish offers a wonderful balance of savory and peppery flavors. Served with a zesty soy-based dipping sauce, it’s perfect as an appetizer or a light main course. This recipe is pescatarian-friendly and highlights the natural flavors of the fish without any experimental elements.

Ingredients:

• 2 (6 oz) sushi-grade ahi tuna steaks
• 1 tablespoon black peppercorns, crushed
• 1 tablespoon white sesame seeds
• 1 tablespoon black sesame seeds
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon wasabi paste
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 green onion, finely chopped

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, combine the crushed black peppercorns, white sesame seeds, and black sesame seeds. Press the mixture onto both sides of the tuna steaks to coat evenly.
2. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the tuna steaks and sear for about 1-2 minutes on each side for rare, or longer if desired.
3. While the tuna is cooking, prepare the dipping sauce by whisking together the soy sauce, wasabi paste, rice vinegar, and honey in a bowl. Stir in the chopped green onion.
4. Remove the tuna from the skillet and let it rest for a minute before slicing it into thin strips.
5. Serve the sliced tuna with the dipping sauce on the side.