2 tablespoons grated orange zest
2 tablespoons firmly-packed brown sugar
1 tablespoon minced garlic
2 teaspoons ground mustard
1 tablespoon ground cumin
2 teaspoons finely minced fresh basil leaves
1 tablespoon coarse Kosher or sea salt
2 teaspoons coarsely ground pepper
4 (4 to 6-ounce) 1-inch thick sushi quality tuna steaks
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1/2 cup orange juice
1 tablespoon champagne or white wine vinegar
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
4 cups cooked white beans
1/4 cup shredded fresh basil leaves
In a small bowl, combine the orange zest, brown sugar, garlic, mustard,
cumin, basil, salt and pepper. Reserve 1 tablespoon of this mixture for
seasoning the white beans. rub the remaining mix on the tuna, coating them
well.
In a heavy bottomed sauté pan or a cast-iron pan, warm the olive oil.
Increase the heat to high and place the tuna in the pan. Sear for 1 minutes,
then turn over carefully, reducing the heat to medium. Sear the other side
for 1 more minutes until medium rare. Remove from heat.
NOTE: To grill the tuna steaks - prepare a medium-hot fire for grilling, and
brush the grill with oil. Place the grill about three inches above the
coals. Grill the tuna for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side for rare, 5 to 6
for medium rare.
In a large saucepan, whisk the orange juice, vinegar, and reserved spices.
Bring to a simmer. Add the white beans and basil, tossing well until hot.
Place the beans on a large platter or individual serving plates; drizzle
with olive oil. Place tuna steak over the beans and serve.
Makes 4 servings.