African Adobo Rubbed Tuna Steaks Recipe

Experience a taste of history with this vibrant African Adobo-rubbed tuna steak recipe! Dating back to 17th-century Bahia, Brazil, this recipe, inspired by African culinary traditions, delivers a delicious fusion of flavors. Perfectly seared tuna steaks are complemented by a refreshing avocado salsa and tangy pickled cucumbers, creating a culinary journey you won't forget. Easy to make, yet bursting with exotic taste, this dish is perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight treat.

Prep Time 25 mins
Cook Time 50 mins
Calories 630 kcal
Protein 8g
Rating 5.0 (2 Reviews)
African Adobo Rubbed Tuna Steaks

Recipe Actions

Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for African Adobo Rubbed Tuna Steaks

  • 2 ripe avocados, diced
  • 2 scallions, finely chopped
  • Piquillo Peppers
  • Garlic Cloves
  • Fresh Orange Juice
  • Fresh Lime Juice
  • Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • Salt & Freshly Ground Black Pepper
  • Coriander Seeds
  • Ground Ginger
  • Red Pepper Flakes
  • Ground Turmeric
  • Dry Mustard
  • Nutmeg
  • Ground Allspice
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Fresh Ground Black Pepper
  • Kosher Salt
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • Dried Orange Peel
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • Tuna Steak
  • Peanut Oil
  • Champagne Vinegar
  • Seedless European Cucumber

How to Make African Adobo Rubbed Tuna Steaks

  1. **Prepare the Avocado Salsa:**
  2. Dice 2 ripe avocados.
  3. Finely chop 2 scallions.
  4. Mince 1 jalapeño pepper (remove seeds for less heat).
  5. Mince 2 cloves of garlic.
  6. In a medium bowl, combine the diced avocados, scallions, jalapeño, and garlic.
  7. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons orange juice, 1 tablespoon lime juice, 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste.
  8. Pour the dressing over the avocado mixture and gently toss to combine.
  9. Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  10. **Prepare the Pickled Cucumbers:**
  11. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon sugar and 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar.
  12. Add 1 thinly sliced cucumber and let marinate for 15 minutes.
  13. **Prepare and Cook the Tuna:**
  14. **Make the Adobo Rub:** In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon paprika, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional), and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
  15. Rub 3 tablespoons olive oil over 2 (6-ounce) tuna steaks. Generously sprinkle with the adobo rub, ensuring even coverage.
  16. Heat the remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil in a nonstick skillet over high heat until it just begins to smoke.
  17. Sear the tuna steaks for 1 minute per side for rare, or longer for desired doneness. (Note: Overcooking will result in dry tuna).
  18. Transfer the seared tuna to a plate and let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
  19. **Assemble and Serve:**
  20. Arrange the marinated cucumber slices on plates.
  21. Top with the seared tuna steaks.
  22. Spoon the avocado salsa generously over the tuna.
  23. Drizzle a little of the pickling liquid around the cucumbers.
  24. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Small additions can make a big impact! Try a sprinkle of fresh herbs, a dash of your favorite spice blend, or a squeeze of citrus just before serving to really enhance the flavors of your dish.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

109 g

Sugar

63g

Fat

43g

Carbs

10g