Blackened Tuna with Spicy Cajun Rub

Name: Blackened Tuna with Spicy Cajun Rub
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 18 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tbsp paprika; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper; 1/2 tsp black pepper (freshly ground); 1/2 tsp salt; 4 pieces tuna steaks (about 170g each); 2 tbsp olive oil

18 min 4 servings Medium

All Recipes

Savour the bold flavours of blackened tuna, perfectly seared with a spicy Cajun rub. Enjoy a restaurant-quality dish at home that's both healthy and delicious.

Prep

10 min

Cook

8 min

Total

18 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Blackened tuna is a dish that brings the vibrant flavours of Cajun cuisine right to your kitchen. This recipe combines the rich, meaty texture of tuna steaks with a spicy rub that creates a beautiful crust when seared. Ideal for seafood lovers who enjoy bold, spicy dishes, blackened tuna is both a treat for the taste buds and a feast for the eyes. Our version of blackened tuna focuses on balancing spice and heat while maintaining the delicate texture of the tuna. Perfectly cooked, the tuna remains juicy inside while the Cajun rub forms a tantalizing crust. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply want a quick yet impressive meal, this blackened tuna is sure to impress.

Instructions

Prepare the Cajun Rub

In a small bowl, combine paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt.

Pro tip: Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.

Rub the Tuna

Pat the tuna steaks dry with a paper towel. Rub each steak generously with the Cajun spice mixture on all sides.

Pro tip: Ensure an even coat for a consistent crust.

Heat the Pan

Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat until very hot, about 3 minutes.

Pro tip: A cast-iron skillet works best for this recipe.

Add Oil to the Pan

Add olive oil to the hot skillet and swirl to coat the bottom.

Sear the Tuna

Place the tuna steaks in the skillet and sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until a dark crust forms.

Pro tip: Do not move the steaks while searing to ensure a good crust.

Check for Doneness

The tuna should be cooked to medium rare, with the centre still slightly pink. Adjust cooking time if necessary.

Pro tip: Use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 54°C (130°F) for medium rare.

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Tips & Tricks

Ensure your pan is hot enough before adding the tuna to achieve a perfect sear.
Use fresh tuna steaks for the best texture and flavour.
Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of cayenne pepper in the rub.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is blackened tuna?

Blackened tuna is a dish where tuna steaks are coated in a spicy rub and seared at high heat to create a flavorful crust.

How do you know when blackened tuna is done?

Blackened tuna is done when it has a dark crust and the internal temperature reaches 54°C (130°F) for medium rare.

What should I serve with blackened tuna?

Serve blackened tuna with steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or rice for a complete meal.

Can I make blackened tuna ahead of time?

You can prepare the Cajun rub ahead, but it's best to cook the tuna fresh for optimal texture and flavour.

How many calories are in blackened tuna?

A serving of blackened tuna contains approximately 250 calories.

What type of tuna is best for blackening?

Fresh tuna steaks, such as yellowfin or ahi tuna, are ideal for blackening due to their firm texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your blackened tuna with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh garden salad to balance the bold flavours. Pairing it with a chilled glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, enhances the dish's spicy notes. For meal prep, you can make the Cajun rub in advance and store it in an airtight container. Cooked blackened tuna can be refrigerated for up to 2 days, though it's best enjoyed fresh for optimal flavour and texture.

Nutrition per serving

250

Calories

37g

Protein

10g

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