Fried Ahi Recipe
Make Fried Ahi Recipe in just 35m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Ahi and Marinade
Breading and Frying
Sauce and Garnish
Method
Ahi and Marinade
- 1
Prepare and marinate tuna
Pat the ahi tuna steaks dry with paper towels. Cut into 4 equal portions (about 4 oz each) if necessary. In a shallow dish, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, grated ginger, minced garlic, and black pepper. Add the tuna portions and turn to coat. Marinate in the refrigerator for 10–15 minutes — short time keeps the tuna texture firm and not overly salty.
Breading and Frying
- 2
Set up breading station
Place flour and cornstarch mixed with 1/2 tsp salt on a shallow plate. In a small bowl, whisk the egg with cold water to make an egg wash. On a third plate, spread the panko breadcrumbs mixed with toasted sesame seeds (if using). Remove tuna from marinade and let excess drip off; reserve marinade for another use or discard.
- 3
Bread the tuna
Lightly dredge each tuna piece in the flour mixture, shaking off excess. Dip into the egg wash, then press into the panko so the surface is evenly coated. Set on a wire rack for 5 minutes to let the coating adhere.
- 4
Fry the tuna
In a heavy skillet (preferably cast-iron) heat about 1 cup vegetable oil over medium-high to 350°F (175°C). If you don't have a thermometer, heat until oil shimmers and a pinch of panko sizzles immediately. Fry tuna in batches 1–2 minutes per side for a thin, crisp crust with rare to medium-rare center. For fully cooked center, fry 3–4 minutes per side. Don't overcrowd the pan. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate or wire rack to drain and rest 2 minutes.
Sauce and Garnish
- 5
Make the sauce
While the tuna rests, whisk together mayonnaise, Sriracha, and lime juice in a small bowl. Adjust chili to taste. Stir in half the sliced green onions.
- 6
Plate and serve
Slice each fried ahi piece crosswise into 4–6 slices. Arrange on plates, drizzle or dot with the spicy mayo, scatter remaining green onions and pickled ginger (if using) on top, and serve with lime wedges alongside.
