Ahi tuna is already great on its own, but the right sauce the way Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse does it, makes it unforgettable.
They combine creamy mayo with just enough heat from sriracha and the tang of Dijon mustard.
I always mix in a little lemon juice for brightness—it lifts everything and keeps the richness in check.
Letting it chill for a few minutes before serving makes a huge difference in how well the flavors come together.
I like to spread a thin layer over the tuna right after searing, then serve extra on the side for dipping.
It’s the kind of sauce that has people asking what’s in it right after they try it.
How to Make Ruth’s Chris Ahi Tuna Sauce
Ingredients
- 2 lb Ahi Tuna Steaks
- 1/4 cup Soy Sauce
- 2 tbsp Sesame Oil
- 1 tbsp Ginger (grated)
- 1 clove Garlic (minced)
- 2 tbsp Lime Juice
- 1 tbsp Sesame Seeds
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1:
Mix soy sauce, sesame oil, lime juice, grated ginger, and minced garlic in a bowl. This will be your marinade.
Step 2:
Sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of the ahi tuna steaks to season them.
Step 3:
Place the ahi tuna steaks in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the steaks, ensuring they are well-coated.
Step 4:
Refrigerate the steaks for at least 30 minutes, allowing the marinade to infuse the flavors.
Step 5:
Heat a skillet or grill over medium-high heat. Sear the marinated ahi tuna steaks for about 2 minutes on each side. You want them cooked on the outside but still pink inside.
Step 6:
Remove from heat and let the steaks cool for a couple of minutes. Slice them against the grain for the best texture.
Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe
Marinating Techniques
Let the tuna marinate longer if you prefer a more intense flavor.
Cooking Precision
Use a meat thermometer to check that your tuna remains medium-rare, with an internal temperature around 125°F.
Slicing the Tuna
Make your slices thin and against the grain to enhance the texture and tenderness of your tuna dish.
Alternative Cooking Methods
If you don’t have a grill or skillet, a broiler can be a great alternative to sear the tuna from above.
Adding a Touch of Spice
For a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade. It’ll spice things up without overpowering the other flavors!
What to Serve with Ruth’s Chris Ahi Tuna Sauce Recipe
Steamed Jasmine Rice
Steamed jasmine rice is fragrant and pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors of the tuna sauce.
It adds a nice, aromatic base and helps soak up the delicious sauce, creating a balanced dish.
Sautéed Bok Choy
Sautéed bok choy is a fantastic option to accompany your ahi tuna dish.
Its crisp texture and subtle sweetness contrast beautifully with the rich, umami flavors of the sauce.
Spicy Edamame
Spicy edamame provides a fun twist, adding a bit of kick to your meal.
Tossed with chili flakes or a splash of sriracha, it brings a lil’ heat to complement the tuna.
Wasabi Mashed Potatoes
Wasabi mashed potatoes offer a unique way to serve your tuna dish.
The creamy potatoes combined with a touch of wasabi bring a spicy, smooth contrast to the meal.
Zucchini Noodles
Zucchini noodles are a light and fresh option to go with the tuna.
They absorb the sauce nicely and provide a different texture, keeping the meal healthy and vibrant.
Variations and Substitutions
Using Different Proteins
You can try swapping the ahi tuna with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version of the sauce recipe.
These alternatives are great at absorbing the flavors of the marinade.
Alternative Sauces
Experiment with different mustard types, such as spicy mustard, to add different layers to the sauce.
Adding some beer might create an interesting twist in the flavor profile.
Marinade Modifications
Consider changing lime juice to lemon juice for a slightly different citrus zest.
Playing around with other herbs like basil or cilantro can also add new flavors to your dish.
Adjusting the Spice Levels
Want more heat? Increase the amount of black pepper or add a dash of chili flakes.
Onion or garlic powders can also bring in more depth if you like stronger, aromatic flavors.
How to Store Leftover Ruth’s Chris Ahi Tuna Sauce
Storing leftover Ruth’s Chris ahi tuna sauce properly will help maintain its freshness and flavor, making it safe to enjoy for later!
Make sure to place the leftover sauce in an airtight container to reduce exposure to air and moisture, which helps prevent spoilage.
Refrigerate the sauce at 40°F or below as quickly as possible to keep it fresh and safe.
Airtight Storage
Choose a container that seals tightly to lock in flavors and keep out unwanted air.
Glass or BPA-free plastic containers work particularly well for storing sauces.
Leave a little space at the top of the container to avoid pressure build-up and ensure a better seal.
Precise Timing
Refrigerate the sauce within two hours of serving to protect it from harmful bacteria growth.
Aim to consume the stored sauce within three days for the best taste and quality.
If you’re unsure, give the sauce a quick sniff before using, checking for any off odors.
Freezing Options
For longer storage, you can freeze the sauce in small portions.
This makes it easy to thaw just what you need without waste.
When ready to use, thaw the sauce in the refrigerator overnight for safe defrosting.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overcooking the Tuna
You really want that perfect sear on your ahi tuna.
Cooking it too long results in a dry and flavorless dish.
Stick to a quick sear on each side; think one to two minutes!
Ignoring Marinade Time
Marinating is key for infusing flavor, so don’t rush it.
The marinade should soak into the tuna for at least 30 minutes.
Skipping or shortening this time can lead to bland results.
Skipping Fresh Ingredients
Using fresh ingredients makes a big difference in the final taste.
Substituting with dried or processed items can dull the flavor.
Always choose fresh ginger, garlic, and lime juice for vibrant taste.
Ruth's Chris Ahi Tuna Sauce Recipe
- 2 lb Ahi Tuna Steaks
- 1/4 cup Soy Sauce
- 2 tbsp Sesame Oil
- 1 tbsp Ginger grated
- 1 clove Garlic minced
- 2 tbsp Lime Juice
- 1 tbsp Sesame Seeds
- Salt and Pepper to taste
- Mix soy sauce, sesame oil, lime juice, grated ginger, and minced garlic in a bowl. This will be your marinade.
- Sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of the ahi tuna steaks to season them.
- Place the ahi tuna steaks in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the steaks, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Refrigerate the steaks for at least 30 minutes, allowing the marinade to infuse the flavors.
- Heat a skillet or grill over medium-high heat. Sear the marinated ahi tuna steaks for about 2 minutes on each side. You want them cooked on the outside but still pink inside.
- Remove from heat and let the steaks cool for a couple of minutes. Slice them against the grain for the best texture.
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