Instructions

1. Add the sesame seeds to a mixing bowl. You need about 1/3 cup of seeds for each 8- to 10-ounce tuna steak.

2. Add kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to the sesame seeds to taste. Add a pinch of salt and a crack of pepper, mix them together and taste to determine if you need to season the seeds more.

3. Add dried spices, freshly minced herbs and zest to the sesame seeds, if desired. Mix the seeds and other ingredients together using a whisk.

4. Spread the sesame seed mixture on a plate in an even layer. Coat the tuna steaks with a thin layer of oil on both sides and lay them in the sesame seeds. Lightly press on the tuna and turn each one over, then repeat.

5. Heat a couple tablespoons of oil in a pan over medium-high heat until wisps of smoke rise from it.

6. Lay the tuna steaks in the pan. Cook the tuna for about 2 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 130 degrees Fahrenheit. Cook the tuna for 2 1/2 to 3 minutes for medium, or an internal temperature of 135 F.

7. Move the tuna steaks from the pan to a plate and serve as soon as possible. If you're slicing the tuna, let it rest for a few minutes so the crust sets.