Tuna Tostados
A confluence of factors led me to prepare these tuna tostados. First, Efraim (of muffin delivery fame) has begun delivering fresh fish every week to patrons within the Boston Eruv, including delicious tuna. Second, I had my first semi-professional cooking gig tonight. As anyone familiar with the Hub of the Solar System knows, Boston lacks classy restaurants — not even Taam China II (”the Deuce”) can provide a romantic or business atmosphere. So, when friends of ours had a special birthday to celebrate, I gladly offered my kitchen skills (and tastefully made-over dining room) for the occasion. Hey, I’m a Cook’s Illustrated subscriber, what more do I need?
To start off their meal, I thought these tostados would be perfect. Not only would they let me showcase Efraim’s ocean delicacies, but all the components could be prepared in advanced and assembled in flash at the last moment. The recipe required little modification — I replaced the cilantro with parsley (to suit my own taste), used Tofutti’s pareve sour cream substitute as garnish (it’s actually not that bad), and sprinkled a little sea salt on top for taste and texture. I also made larger wonton crisps than the recipe’s photo suggested — a little easier to hold, but perhaps a bit harder to eat since it’s not bite-sized. A rectangular platter, holding four tostados, was ideal for a dramatic presentation.
That pic looks like sashimi grade tuna. Is it? And does anyone know if there is a place in the NY area where such quality, fresh fish can be purchased?
Thanks.
That looks fabulous. How was the event?
It went really well, and I enjoyed the experience despite the heat of the kitchen. Of course, there are a few details I’d like to refine for next time, should there be one. Among which: I’ll make sure my guests enjoy rare tuna before designing the menu ;)
Wait, the people didn’t like rare tuna? They don’t deserve a meal anyhow. Unless they’re pregnant, let ‘em starve. ;-)
Hey - my half-birthday’s coming up, and I looooooove rare tuna… ;-)
the event was awesome!!! The chef and hostess were the best part. We had never eaten raw tuna before, so we didn’t know if we liked it or not…but it was worth a taste! The flavor of the tuna was good, the thing we didn’t like was the “raw” part.