Elegant Ahi Tuna Appetisers

Yield: 24 pieces, approx.

INGREDIENTS
½ lb Ahi tuna – absolutely fresh, dark red, high quality “sushi grade” is essential here
2 Tbsp Green onion or Chives, finely chopped
1 Tbsp Fresh ginger, minced
2 Tbsp soy sauce - good quality “shoyu” works best
2 tsp Rice wine vinegar
1 Tbsp Toasted sesame oil
Pinch Black pepper
2 English Cucumbers
1 tsp Wasabi
2 oz Pickled ginger
2 Tbsp Sesame seeds

PREPARATION:
1. Place green onion & giner in a mixing bowl along with the soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil & pepper to create a marinade.
2. Cut the tuna steak into small cubes (¼” or smaller) and coat with the marinade in a bowl. Allow to marinate in the refrigerator until ready for assembly – 1 to 6 hours is best.
3. Dilute wasabi with enough water to achieve a liquid, the consistency of ketchup.
4. Lightly toast the sesame seeds in a 350° oven for approx. 4 minutes.

TO CREATE AHI TUNA ROLLS:
To create a roll you will need a mandoline to achieve the super-thin slices of cucumber necessary.
1. Slice cucumber lengthwise into very thin long strips using a mandoline.
2. Place a cucumber slice on your work surface. Paint lightly with the diluted wasabi.
3. Lay several slices of pickled ginger along the length of the cucumber.
4. Place a ½ tablespoon of the marinated tuna at the very end of the long cucumber slice.
5. Roll up the slice making sure that the filling does not fall out.
6.If the individual pieces are too large, carefully cut the rollups in half with a sharp knife.

TO CREATE ELEGANT CANAPÉS:
1. Slice cucumber crosswise into disks less than ¼” thick.
2. Paint the disks lightly with the diluted wasabi. Top with a slice of pickled ginger.
3. Top with a ½ tablespoon of the marinated tuna.

TO CREATE CUCUMBER CUPS OR BOATS:
1. Cut cucumber(s) into 1.5” to 2” lengths. Use a spoon or melon baller to create a cavity.
2. Paint the cavities lightly with the diluted wasabi. Place a slice of pickled ginger inside.
3. Fill with the marinated tuna.


GARNISH:
Garnish with a light sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and serve.