Introduction
Savor the rich flavors of Portugal with this exquisite grilled tuna steak recipe. Using the Arteflame grill, we achieve a perfect steakhouse-quality sear on the center grill grate at over 1,000°F. The tuna is then gently finished on the flat cooktop to the desired doneness while staying tender and juicy. Topped with a delectable garlic butter sauce, this dish is perfect for seafood lovers. Let’s fire up the grill and create a flavor-packed masterpiece!
Ingredients
- 2 fresh tuna steaks (about 1.5 inches thick)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
- Vegetable oil (for lighting the grill)
- Firewood (for grilling)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame grill
- Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them inside the grill.
- Stack firewood on top of the soaked napkins.
- Light the napkins and let the fire build for about 20 minutes until the cooktop is hot and ready for grilling.
Step 2: Prepare the tuna steaks
- Pat the tuna steaks dry with a paper towel.
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, sea salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and lemon juice.
- Brush the tuna steaks with the mixture on both sides.
Step 3: Sear the tuna steaks
- Place the tuna steaks on the center grill grate and sear for 45 seconds per side to create a perfect crust.
- Use tongs to turn the steaks only once for an even sear.
Step 4: Finish on the flat cooktop
- Move the tuna steaks to the flat cooktop, closer to the edge for a more controlled heat.
- Cook to preferred doneness (about 2 minutes for rare, 3-4 minutes for medium-rare).
- Remove when internal temperature is 15°F below target, as the steak continues to cook after grilling.
Step 5: Finish with garlic butter
- Drizzle the remaining garlic butter over the tuna steaks.
- Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Tips
- Use high-quality fresh tuna for the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t overcook the tuna; it’s best enjoyed rare to medium-rare.
- Let the steaks rest for a couple of minutes before serving to allow the juices to re-distribute.
Variations
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Spicy Portuguese Tuna: Add red pepper flakes and a dash of piri-piri sauce to the butter mixture.
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Citrus Herb Tuna: Replace lemon juice with orange juice and add fresh thyme.
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Garlic Ginger Tuna: Add grated ginger to the garlic butter for an Asian-Portuguese fusion.
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Rosemary & Wine Tuna: Marinate the steaks in white wine and fresh rosemary before grilling.
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Mustard Herb Tuna: Mix Dijon mustard and dill into the butter for a tangy twist.
Conclusion
Grilling Portuguese tuna steaks on the Arteflame grill locks in their natural juices while creating a beautiful sear. Finished with a flavorful garlic butter, this dish is a must-try for seafood lovers. Get creative with the variations and enjoy a delicious meal straight from your grill!
Best pairings
- Grilled asparagus and roasted sweet potatoes.
- A fresh Portuguese salad with olives and garlic dressing.
- Chilled Vinho Verde or a crisp white wine.
- Grilled lemon slices for extra flavor.