How long does it take to smoke tuna steak?

It typically takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour to smoke a thick-cut smoked tuna steak at 225°F. The goal is to hit an internal temperature of 125–130°F for that perfectly tender, medium-rare finish. For cold smoking, it’s not about doneness but flavor infusion, which can take up to 6 hours at temps under 90°F.

Is tuna good in a smoker?

Yes, and not just good — exceptional. Tuna’s dense, meaty texture absorbs smoke beautifully without falling apart. Whether you’re cold smoking for sashimi-style silkiness or hot smoking for a dinner-worthy centerpiece, smoked tuna steak delivers bold flavor with elegance.

What is the name of smoked tuna?

It’s often called smoked tuna steak , but depending on preparation, it may be labeled as “tuna jerky,” “cold-smoked tuna,” or even “tuna bacon” when sliced thin and pan-fried. In Japan, versions are known as katsuo-bushi when dried and smoked extensively.

Smoked Tuna Steak Recipe – 5-Star Backyard Favorite That Wins Hearts

Description

There’s something soulful about taking a firm, ruby-red tuna steak and slowly smoking it over wood. It’s not just cooking. It’s a ritual. A rhythm. A memory-maker.

Ingredients

Scale

4 thick tuna steaks (yellowfin or albacore, 1.5 inches thick)
1/4 cup olive oil
Zest of 1 lemon
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp cracked black pepper
1 tbsp soy sauce
Applewood or mesquite wood chips

Instructions

Mix olive oil, lemon zest, garlic, pepper, and soy sauce in a glass dish. Marinate tuna steaks for 20 minutes.
Preheat smoker to 225°F. Add wood chips.
Place steaks on smoker grates. Smoke for 45 minutes to 1 hour, until internal temp reaches 125–130°F.
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy with baked potatoes and chives.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Category: Main Course
Method: Smoking
Cuisine: Southern Coastal

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 steak (approx. 6 oz)
Calories: 210
Sugar: 0g
Sodium: 380mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 1g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 32g
Cholesterol: 55mg

Keywords: smoked tuna steak, yellowfin, smoker, hot smoke, cold smoke, mesquite, applewood, brunch