Pan-Seared Orange Tuna with White Beans

Submitted By: Rick Vohden

07/07/04

 

2 tablespoons grated orange zest

2 tablespoons firmly-packed brown sugar

1 tablespoon minced garlic

2 teaspoons ground mustard

1 tablespoon ground cumin

2 teaspoons finely minced fresh basil leaves

1 tablespoon coarse Kosher or sea salt

2 teaspoons coarsely ground pepper

4 (4 to 6-ounce) 1-inch thick sushi quality tuna steaks

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

1/2 cup orange juice

1 tablespoon champagne or white wine vinegar

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

4 cups cooked white beans

1/4 cup shredded fresh basil leaves

 

In a small bowl, combine the orange zest, brown sugar, garlic, mustard, cumin, basil, salt and pepper. Reserve 1 tablespoon of this mixture for seasoning the white beans. rub the remaining mix on the tuna, coating them well.

 

In a heavy bottomed sauté pan or a cast-iron pan, warm the olive oil. Increase the heat to high and place the tuna in the pan. Sear for 1 minutes, then turn over carefully, reducing the heat to medium. Sear the other side for 1 more minutes until medium rare. Remove from heat.

 

NOTE: To grill the tuna steaks - prepare a medium-hot fire for grilling, and brush the grill with oil. Place the grill about three inches above the coals. Grill the tuna for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side for rare, 5 to 6 for medium rare.

 

In a large saucepan, whisk the orange juice, vinegar, and reserved spices. Bring to a simmer. Add the white beans and basil, tossing well until hot.

 

Place the beans on a large platter or individual serving plates; drizzle with olive oil. Place tuna steak over the beans and serve.

 

Makes 4 servings.