Recipe courtesy Ming Tsai. All rights reserved.

Ingredients:
4 block pieces #1 ahi tuna, 6 ounces each
Salt and black pepper
2 cups edamame, chopped up
2 shallots, rough chopped
2 eggs
1 cup rice flour
Soda water, to bind
Canola oil, for frying plus 1/4 cup, for salad dressing
1 teaspoon wasabi powder
1 tablespoon naturally brewed soy sauce
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
2 packages daikon sprouts
1 large carrot, peeled and shredded
1 tablespoon green scallions, sliced
1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds, for garnish

Pre-heat a fryer to 400 degrees F. Season the ahi on all sides with salt and pepper. In a food processor, add the edamames and shallots, pulse into small pieces. Add the eggs and pulse to mix.

Meanwhile, make tempura batter whisking the flour with soda water until a thick paste is formed. Fold the edamames with the tempura. Dip the ahi in the batter and fry for 3 to 4 minutes, until golden brown. Season lightly with salt and slice in half on the bias. The middle should be cool and rare.

To make the salad, in a small bowl, whisk together the wasabi, soy, vinegar, sesame oil, and 1/4 cup canola oil. Toss vinaigrette (save a little for garnish) with the sprouts, carrots, scallions, and season. Check for balance of flavor.

Using a 3 to 4 inch ring mold (2 to 3 inches tall), stuff with the salad and drizzle vinaigrette around. Place the ahi on top and de-mold. Garnish with sesame seeds.

Beverage suggestion: Iced Black Teas and Chilled Ji-sake, Bijuwajo

Yield: 4 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes