Tuna Steak au Poivre

3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons water
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
1/2 teaspoon grated peeled ginger
1/2 teaspoon sugar
1 scallion green, thinly sliced
2 1/2 teaspoons black peppercorns
1/2 teaspoon white peppercorns
1 teaspoon coriander seeds
2 pounds tuna steaks (1-inch thick)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Stir together soy sauce, water, lime juice, ginger, sugar, and scallion.

Coarsely crush peppercorns and coriander with a mortar and pestle or heavy skillet. Sprinkle tuna with 3/4 tsp salt, then press spice mixture evenly all over fish.

Heat oil in a 12-inch heavy skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers, then sear tuna, turning once, about 6 minutes for medium-rare.

Serve with teriyaki or dipping sauce, if desired.

Makes 4 servings.

From Epicurious.com.

(Photo: Mohamed Aly)