Caviar Marinated Tuna with Barbecued Black Tea Seasonings
Ingredients:
- 6g barbecued black tea seasonings
- 2 fresh tuna steaks (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 cup white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay)
- 1 cup fish broth or clam juice
- Fresh dill, chopped (for garnish)
- Fresh caviar (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Season the Tuna:
- Pat the tuna steaks dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. Season both sides of the tuna generously with the barbecued black tea seasonings, salt, and pepper. Allow the tuna to sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes to come to temperature and to allow the seasonings to penetrate the meat.
- Sear the T:una
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it is hot but not smoking. Add the tuna steaks and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until a deep brown crust forms. This high-heat searing helps to lock in the juices and enhances the flavor.
Add Aromatics:
- Add the minced garlic, butter, dill, and parsley to the skillet. Continue to cook for another 1-2 minutes, basting the tuna with the melted butter and herbs.
Deglaze the Pan:
- Carefully pour in the white wine, scraping the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon to deglaze and release any browned bits. Allow the wine to simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
Finish Cooking:
- Add the fish broth or clam juice to the skillet and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil, and let the tuna cook in the liquid for another 3-5 minutes for medium-rare, or until they reach your desired level of doneness. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should read 125°F (52°C) for medium-rare.
Rest the Tuna:
- Remove the tuna from the skillet and transfer them to a cutting board. Tent them loosely with aluminum foil and let them rest for 3-5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful tuna.
Make the Sauce:
- While the tuna is resting, you can thicken the sauce in the skillet if desired. Bring the remaining liquid to a simmer and cook until it reaches your preferred consistency. If the sauce is too thin, you can mix a small amount of cornstarch with water and stir it into the sauce to thicken it.
Serve:
- Slice the tuna against the grain into thick slices if desired. Arrange the slices on a serving platter or individual plates. Spoon the warm sauce over the top of the tuna. Garnish with chopped fresh dill and a spoonful of caviar for added luxury and a touch of elegance.
Tips for Success:
- Seasoning: The barbecued black tea seasonings add a unique, smoky flavor that complements the rich taste of the tuna. Feel free to adjust the amount based on your preference.
- Resting: Allowing the tuna to rest is crucial for retaining its juices and ensuring tenderness.
- Sauce Variation: For a different flavor profile, you can substitute the white wine with another type of wine or even a light broth.
- Caviar: If using caviar, choose a high-quality variety to the enhance luxurious feel of the dish.
Enjoy Your Caviar Marinated Tuna!
- This dish combines the delicate texture of fresh tuna with the complex flavors of white wine and herbs, enhanced by the unique aroma of barbecued black tea seasonings. It’s a perfect choice for a special dinner or a sophisticated evening at home.