Tuna steaks can be a delicious and healthy meal option. However, like many foods, tuna doesn’t keep well after cooking. So a common question is whether tuna steaks still taste good reheated. The answer depends on a few factors.
Can you reheat tuna steaks?
Yes, you can absolutely reheat previously cooked tuna steaks. Reheating allows you to cook a few tuna steaks in advance and then enjoy them throughout the week without wasting any fish. However, tuna is a delicate fish that can dry out or become rubbery if not reheated properly.
What is the best way to reheat tuna steaks?
The best way to reheat tuna steaks is to use a gentle heat method that warms the fish without overcooking it. Here are some recommended methods:
- Oven – Preheat oven to 300°F. Place tuna steaks on a baking sheet and warm in the oven for 5-10 minutes until heated through.
- Skillet – Heat a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a small amount of oil or butter. Gently warm tuna steaks in the skillet for 2-3 minutes per side.
- Microwave – Microwave tuna steaks on a microwave-safe dish for 30 seconds at a time, checking frequently, until heated through.
Avoid high direct heat like grilling or broiling when reheating tuna, as this can make the fish dry and rubbery. Gentle, indirect heat is best.
How long is tuna steak good for after cooking?
Freshly cooked tuna steaks last about 3-4 days stored properly in the refrigerator. To maximize freshness and shelf life:
- Refrigerate tuna steaks as soon as they have cooled after cooking.
- Store tuna steaks in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap.
- Ensure tuna reaches 40°F or below within 2 hours of cooking.
Properly stored tuna steaks will keep for 3-4 days. After that time, the quality deteriorates. Tuna steaks may still be safe to eat for another 1-2 days but will likely be drier and less flavorful.
How do you know if reheated tuna steak is bad?
Signs that reheated tuna steak has gone bad and is unsafe to eat include:
- Fishy, sour or ammonia-like odor
- Slimy texture
- Discoloration or graying of flesh
- Dry, flaky flesh
- Mold growth
Tuna, like any seafood, deteriorates quickly when reheated multiple times. Stick to reheating tuna steak only once after the initial cooking for optimal freshness and eating quality.
Tips for reheating tuna steaks
Follow these tips for best results when reheating tuna steaks:
- Use gentle, indirect heat like an oven or skillet rather than direct heat like a grill.
- Reheat tuna steaks just until warmed through, about 5-10 minutes. Avoid overcooking.
- Brush steaks with oil or butter before reheating for moisture.
- If tuna steaks seems dry, add sauce like soy-ginger or teriyaki when reheating for extra moisture.
- Only reheat tuna steak once after the initial cooking for optimal texture and taste.
- Refrigerate and reheat tuna within 3-4 days of cooking for best quality.
What dishes can you make with reheated tuna steak?
Reheated tuna steaks work well in a variety of dishes where the tuna doesn’t need to be perfectly tender, such as:
- Tuna noodle or rice bowls
- Tuna salads with vegetables and greens
- Tuna sandwiches or wraps
- Tuna melts or paninis
- Tuna pizza or flatbreads
- Tuna tacos or burritos
- Tuna casseroles or bakes
Mixing reheated tuna steak pieces into dishes with sauces, condiments, and other ingredients can keep the tuna moist and add flavor.
Is reheated tuna steak safe to eat when pregnant?
Yes, reheated tuna steak is safe to eat during pregnancy as long as it is fully cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F initially. However, there are a few guidelines pregnant women should follow for eating tuna:
- Limit total tuna consumption to 6oz per week (cooked weight) to avoid excessive mercury exposure.
- Consume a variety of tuna steak types like yellowfin, skipjack, and tongol which tend to be lower in mercury.
- Avoid eating raw or undercooked tuna sushi/sashimi.
- Refrigerate and reheat tuna steak within 3-4 days as with the general population.
Properly cooked and handled tuna steak that is reheated after refrigerated storage poses minimal risks during pregnancy. But following mercury guidelines and food safety practices is advised.
Conclusion
Tuna steaks can be safely reheated and retain their delicious flavor if handled properly. Use gentle, indirect heat and don’t overcook the fish. Enjoy reheated tuna steaks within 3-4 days in dishes like salads, sandwiches, and more. With a few simple precautions, reheated tuna steaks make for quick, healthy meals.