Roasted Tuna with Mushroom and Herb Crust

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat your oven to 400°F. Pat the tuna steaks dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with sea salt and black pepper, letting them sit at room temperature for 10 minutes.

   Tip: Dry tuna creates a better sear and allows the seasonings to adhere properly.

2. 2

   Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over high heat until shimmering. Once hot, carefully place the tuna steaks in the pan and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until a golden crust forms, then transfer to a plate.

   Tip: Don't move the tuna while searing—let it develop a flavorful brown crust undisturbed.

3. 3

   In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the remaining 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the shallot and sauté for 2 minutes until softened and fragrant.

4. 4

   Add the cremini and shiitake mushrooms to the skillet along with the minced garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 6-7 minutes until the mushrooms are golden brown and have released their moisture.

   Tip: Allow the mushrooms to caramelize slightly for deeper flavor development.

5. 5

   Deglaze the skillet by pouring in the white wine and scraping up any browned bits from the bottom with a wooden spoon. Add the fresh thyme and rosemary, then simmer for 2 minutes to reduce the liquid slightly.

6. 6

   Return the seared tuna steaks to the skillet, nestling them into the mushroom mixture. Drizzle with lemon juice and sprinkle the panko breadcrumbs evenly over the top of each tuna steak.

   Tip: The breadcrumbs will toast in the oven and create a pleasant textural contrast.

7. 7

   Transfer the entire skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 8-10 minutes, until the breadcrumb topping is golden brown and the tuna reaches your desired doneness (medium-rare is recommended at 125°F internal temperature).

   Tip: For medium-rare tuna with a slightly warm center, aim for about 9 minutes total roasting time.

8. 8

   Remove from the oven and let rest for 2 minutes. Taste the mushroom mixture and adjust seasonings with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve each tuna steak topped with the roasted mushroom mixture and pan juices.