Ingredients:

  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
  • 2 (6 oz) sushi-grade Ahi tuna steaks
  • 2 tbsp avocado oil
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter

Instructions:

  1. In a small ramekin, whisk together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, cayenne, salt, and pepper until no clumps remain.
  2. Using paper towels, pat the tuna steaks aggressively dry on all sides. Press about 1.5 teaspoons of the seasoning rub into each side of the fish to create a thick, uniform coating.
  3. Place a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add avocado oil. Heat until the oil begins to shimmer and just barely smoke.
  4. Carefully lay the tuna steaks in the pan. Press down lightly with a spatula to ensure full contact and sear for 1.5 to 2 minutes per side.
  5. In the final 30 seconds of cooking, add the butter to the pan and spoon the foaming butter over the steaks for a glossy finish.
  6. Remove the fish from the pan when the edges have changed color by about 1/4 inch, leaving the center deep red.