Ruth’s Chris Ahi Tuna Appetizer Recipe

Inspired by the Classics

This Ahi Tuna Appetizer recipe is a tribute to the legendary Ruth’s Chris Steak House. Known for their perfectly seared steaks, they also excel at bringing out the best in fresh seafood. This recipe captures that same spirit: simple, elegant, and bursting with flavor.

What makes this appetizer so special? It’s all about the sear. A quick blast of high heat on a cast iron pan creates a beautiful crust, while leaving the interior of the tuna perfectly tender and cool. Served with a tangy citrus sauce and a sprinkle of sesame seeds, it’s a symphony of textures and tastes that’s sure to impress.

Ruth’s Chris Ahi Tuna Appetizer Recipe

This indulgent appetizer recipe replicates the famous Ruth’s Chris Ahi Tuna dish, featuring seared ahi tuna, served rare with a tangy soy-ginger marinade and a side of wasabi sauce.

• Servings: 8-10 people
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 5-7 minutes

This mouth-watering appetizer is perfect for special occasions or dinner parties. The combination of the seared ahi tuna, savory soy-ginger marinade, and spicy wasabi sauce will leave your guests wanting more.

The key to this recipe is to cook the ahi tuna to the perfect rare temperature, ensuring it stays juicy and flavorful. Pair it with a refreshing side of mixed greens or a simple salad for a well-rounded meal.

Try this Ruth’s Chris Ahi Tuna Appetizer Recipe for a taste of luxury that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients for Ruth’s Chris Ahi Tuna Appetizer

To prepare the Ruth’s Chris Ahi Tuna Appetizer, gather the following ingredients:

• 480 g / 2 cups sashimi-grade Ahi tuna, cut into 1-inch / 2.5 cm cubes
• 60 ml / 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 30 ml / 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 15 g / 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 15 g / 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
• 10 g / 2 teaspoons sesame oil
• 10 g / 2 teaspoons chopped fresh scallions, for garnish
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 120 g / 1/2 cup sesame seeds, for garnish
• Optional ingredients:
  • 30 g / 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper, for added flavor and texture
  • 15 g / 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
  • 10 g / 2 teaspoons wasabi paste, for added heat

Ensure all ingredients are fresh and of high quality to achieve the best flavor and texture in the Ruth’s Chris Ahi Tuna Appetizer.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Ruth’s Chris Ahi Tuna Appetizer

This recipe will guide you through creating the iconic Ruth’s Chris Ahi Tuna appetizer in your own kitchen. Follow these steps carefully for perfectly seared tuna with a flavorful crust and a melt-in-your-mouth center.

1. Prepare the Tuna: Pat the tuna steaks dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
2. Sear the Tuna: Heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat until very hot. Add the olive oil to the skillet and swirl to coat. Carefully place the tuna steaks in the hot skillet.
3. Cook to Perfection: Sear for 1 minute per side for rare, 2 minutes per side for medium-rare, or 3 minutes per side for medium. The exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of your steaks and your desired doneness.
4. Rest the Tuna: Transfer the seared tuna steaks to a plate and let them rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
5. Prepare the Sesame-Soy Glaze: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the soy sauce, mirin, sesame oil, and grated ginger. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened, about 3-5 minutes.
6. Slice and Serve: Slice the tuna steaks against the grain into 1/2-inch thick pieces. Arrange the slices on a platter and drizzle generously with the sesame-soy glaze. Garnish with thinly sliced scallions or sesame seeds, if desired.

Pro Tips for Making Ruth’s Chris Ahi Tuna Appetizer

Take your Ruth’s Chris Ahi Tuna Appetizer to the next level with these expert tips and tricks for enhanced flavor and presentation.

Choose the Right Ahi Tuna

Opt for sashimi-grade Ahi Tuna with a high fat content (at least 20%) for a richer flavor and tender texture. Look for fresh, vibrant color and a firm, springy feel.

• Avoid over-handling the tuna to prevent damage and loss of juices.
• Keep the tuna refrigerated at 1-4°C (34-39°F) until ready to serve.

Perfect Seared Crust

To achieve a crispy, golden-brown crust, heat a skillet over high heat (220°C / 425°F) and add a small amount of oil. Sear the tuna for 1-2 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness.

1. Don’t overcrowd the skillet, cook in batches if necessary.
2. Use a thermometer to ensure the correct internal temperature (54-57°C / 130-135°F).

Enhance the Flavor

Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of microgreens for a burst of citrus flavor and freshness.

• Experiment with different seasonings, such as soy sauce or wasabi, to add depth and umami flavor.
• Consider serving with a side of wasabi sauce or pickled ginger for added contrast.

Substitutions and Alternatives for Ruth’s Chris Ahi Tuna Appetizer

To recreate the Ruth’s Chris Ahi Tuna Appetizer, some ingredients can be substituted while maintaining the dish’s integrity. For the tuna, 240 g / 1 cup of sushi-grade yellowfin or bigeye tuna can be used as alternatives, offering a similar rich flavor profile.

• For the soy sauce, nama shoyu or tamari can be used in the same amount (60 ml / 1/4 cup) for a deeper umami flavor.
• In place of sesame oil, 30 ml / 2 tablespoons of avocado oil or grapeseed oil can be used, slightly altering the flavor profile but maintaining the dish’s overall character.
• For the wasabi, 15 g / 1 tablespoon of grated horseradish can be substituted, providing a similar pungency.

When making substitutions, it’s essential to consider the flavor impact. These alternatives will allow the Ahi tuna to remain the focal point of the dish while introducing subtle variations in flavor. Ensure that any substituted ingredients are of high quality to maintain the appetizer’s overall excellence.

Spice Up Your Ahi Tuna: Variations on the Classic

Love the Ruth’s Chris Ahi Tuna Appetizer but want to explore new flavors? Here are a few twists to elevate your next gathering:

Asian-Inspired Zing

Swap out the sesame seeds for toasted sesame oil and add a sprinkle of sriracha or chili flakes for a spicy kick. A drizzle of soy sauce and a squeeze of lime juice complete this Asian-inspired variation. Prep time remains the same, but cooking time might increase slightly depending on your spice level.

Mediterranean Delight

Embrace Mediterranean flavors by replacing the sesame seeds with chopped fresh oregano and basil. A drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese add a salty, tangy twist. Prep time remains unchanged, but cooking time might be slightly shorter.

Citrus Burst

Brighten your tuna with a citrusy twist. Use orange or grapefruit juice instead of lime, and garnish with candied citrus peel. This variation adds a refreshing sweetness and a vibrant color to your appetizer. Prep time stays the same, and cooking time remains unchanged.

Storage and Reheating Instructions for Ruth’s Chris Ahi Tuna Appetizer

After preparing the Ruth’s Chris Ahi Tuna Appetizer, it’s essential to store and reheat it correctly to maintain its quality and safety. Follow these steps to ensure your appetizer remains delicious and fresh.

Storing the Ahi Tuna Appetizer

1. Transfer the appetizer to an airtight container, separating the tuna from the sauce to prevent cross-contamination. Store it in the refrigerator at 4°C (39°F) or below within 2 hours of preparation.
2. Label the container with the date and contents, and store it in the coldest part of the refrigerator, usually the bottom shelf.
3. Consume the appetizer within 24 hours of preparation for optimal flavor and texture.
4. Freeze the appetizer for up to 3 months if you won’t be using it within 24 hours. Store it in an airtight container or freezer bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing.
5. When freezing, label the container or bag with the date and contents, and store it at -18°C (0°F) or below.

Reheating the Ahi Tuna Appetizer

1. Refrigerated appetizer: Remove the appetizer from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to 1 hour before reheating. This allows the temperature to even out, ensuring safe reheating.
2. Reheat the appetizer in a saucepan over low heat (80°C/176°F) or in the microwave on defrost mode (30 seconds to 1 minute). Stir occasionally to prevent overheating.
3. For the sauce, reheat it separately in a saucepan over low heat (80°C/176°F) or in the microwave on defrost mode (15-30 seconds). Stir occasionally to prevent scorching.
4. Once reheated, combine the tuna and sauce, and serve immediately. If not serving immediately, reheat the sauce again before serving.
5. When reheating frozen appetizer, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or thaw it quickly in cold water. Then, reheat it according to the steps above.

Safe Reheating Temperatures

Always reheat the appetizer to an internal temperature of at least 74°C (165°F) to ensure food safety. Use a food thermometer to check the temperature, especially when reheating frozen appetizer.

Additional Tips

• When reheating, avoid overcooking the tuna, as it can become dry and tough.
• Keep the appetizer away from strong-smelling foods, as it can absorb odors easily.
• Reheat the appetizer just before serving to maintain its texture and flavor.

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Ruth’s Chris Ahi Tuna Appetizer

When preparing the Ruth’s Chris Ahi Tuna Appetizer, several issues may arise that can affect the final result. Identifying and resolving these problems is crucial to achieving a dish that meets the high standards of this renowned recipe.

Common Problems and Fixes

The following are some common issues that may occur during preparation or cooking, along with their solutions:

• Overcooking the tuna: Cook the tuna for 1-2 minutes per side at 200°C / 400°F to achieve a perfect sear without overcooking. Use a thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 50°C / 122°F for medium-rare.
• Insufficient seasoning: Ensure that the tuna is seasoned liberally with salt and pepper before searing. Additionally, use 15 g / 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and 15 g / 1 tablespoon of olive oil to enhance the flavor.
• Incorrect slicing: Slice the tuna into 60 g / 2 oz pieces against the grain to ensure tender and easy-to-eat portions.
• Ponzu sauce too thick: Whisk together 60 ml / 1/4 cup of soy sauce, 60 ml / 1/4 cup of citrus juice, and 15 g / 1 tablespoon of sugar to achieve the perfect balance of flavors. Adjust the consistency by adding 15-30 ml / 1-2 tablespoons of water if necessary.

By being aware of these potential issues and taking steps to prevent or resolve them, the Ruth’s Chris Ahi Tuna Appetizer can be prepared with confidence and served to impress.

Nutritional Information

This Ruth’s Chris Ahi Tuna Appetizer is a delicious and satisfying bite, but it’s also important to be mindful of its nutritional content. Each serving provides approximately 200 calories, 25 grams of protein, and 10 grams of fat.

The high protein content makes this appetizer a great choice for those looking to fuel their muscles after a workout or maintain a healthy weight. The healthy fats found in the tuna contribute to satiety and overall well-being.

Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Key Takeaways from Ruth’s Chris Ahi Tuna Appetizer Recipe

The Ruth’s Chris Ahi Tuna Appetizer Recipe offers several valuable lessons for creating a delicious and impressive dish. High-quality ingredients are essential, including sashimi-grade Ahi tuna, fresh soy sauce, and wasabi. The recipe also highlights the importance of proper food safety, as the tuna must be handled and stored safely to prevent contamination.

• Use 240 g / 1 cup of sashimi-grade Ahi tuna for the best results.
• Cook the tuna to an internal temperature of 49°C / 120°F for medium-rare.
• Allow the tuna to rest for a few minutes before slicing to ensure even cooking.

By following these key takeaways, you can create a mouth-watering Ahi tuna appetizer that rivals the quality of Ruth’s Chris. The recipe’s emphasis on attention to detail and proper technique ensures a memorable dining experience.

A Touch of Ruth’s Chris at Home

This Ahi Tuna appetizer recipe has been a real favorite in my kitchen. It’s inspired by the iconic dish at Ruth’s Chris Steak House, but I’ve made it a bit more approachable for home cooks.

The key to nailing this recipe is using the highest quality sushi-grade ahi tuna. You want it to be bright red and firm to the touch. Don’t be afraid to sear it quickly over high heat – a good crust is essential for that restaurant-quality taste.

I like to serve this with a simple but flavorful sauce. A mix of soy sauce, wasabi, and a touch of sesame oil does the trick perfectly. And of course, a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds a delightful crunch.

This recipe is a real crowd-pleaser and it’s perfect for a special occasion or just a weeknight treat. Give it a try and let me know what you think!

Replicating Ruth’s Chris Ahi Tuna Appetizer at Home

With this recipe, you can now bring the taste of Ruth’s Chris to your own kitchen. Our Ahi Tuna Appetizer recipe is designed to be simple yet impressive, perfect for a dinner party or special occasion. By following these steps, you’ll achieve a seared tuna dish with a perfectly cooked crust and a tender, flavorful interior. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and marinades to make the recipe your own. Try pairing it with our Citrus Herb Rice for a well-rounded meal.