Pan Searing Ahi Tuna

Learn how to pan searing ahi tuna perfectly with our detailed guide, including timing, temperature, and expert tips.

⏱️
5min
Cook Time
🌡️
High
Pan Temperature
350-400°F / 175-200°C
⚖️
0.4 lb / 6 oz / 170 g
Portion Weight
Per adult serving
120-145°F / 50-65°C
Internal Temperature
Rare to Well Done

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. 1Remove ahi tuna from refrigerator 15 minutes before cooking
  2. 2Pat completely dry with paper towels
  3. 3Season generously with coarse salt and cracked black pepper
  4. 4Heat cast iron skillet over highest heat until smoking
  5. 5Add 1 tbsp high-heat oil (avocado or grapeseed)
  6. 6Sear ahi tuna 45-60 seconds per side for rare center
  7. 7Remove immediately and place on cutting board
  8. 8Let rest 2 minutes, then slice into 1/4-inch thick pieces
  9. 9Serve immediately with wasabi, soy sauce, and pickled ginger

Expert Tips for Pan Searing

  • 💡Use only sashimi-grade ahi tuna for safety
  • 💡Extremely high heat creates perfect crust while keeping center raw
  • 💡Don't move the tuna until ready to flip
  • 💡Internal temperature should remain 70-80°F/21-80°F / 25°C in center

Ahi Tuna Temperature Guide

DonenessTemperatureDescription
Rare120°F / 50°CRed center, seared exterior
Medium Rare130°F / 55°CPink center, warm throughout
Well Done145°F / 65°COpaque throughout, flakes easily

Ahi Tuna Safety Guidelines

Important food safety practices when handling and cooking ahi tuna.

⚠️

Cook to proper internal temperature

⚠️

Use food thermometer

🚨

Remember

When in doubt, use a food thermometer. It's the only reliable way to ensure your ahi tuna is safely cooked and delicious.