Must have been something flashing on TV that unsuspectingly made me nostalgic for my outdoor grill. Let’s face it, although grilling is a year-round activity for us 2GourManiacs, winter usage doesn’t even come close to our summertime sizzlers. 
So with yet more fresh snow on the ground I decided to grill something for dinner – the “what” was to be determined. The last time I had beef was over half a life time ago and personally, I also stay away from all mammal flesh. My turkey burgers are some of the best you’ll ever have (yes, I will post the recipe at some point), but I was really in the mood for something different. Just like a burger patty, an idea began taking shape in my head and I ran with it. I love fish and simply adore Asian food, so what about some … Asian Tuna Burgers?? Within a few minutes I had all the details worked out and off I went to shop for the ingredients. The prepping and creative process was lots of fun and, after a little bit of experimenting to work out consistency and amounts, and with some anticipation, I was ready to let the grilling begin before the sun set. For condiments, I served slices of dakon root (poached in pickling spices and chilled) in place of pickle chips, as well as ginger slices and Teriyaki sauce, and two spicy mayos – one with red chilies, the other with wasabi. Wish you could have tasted those delicious, tender, small tuna burgers on the tiniest, soft buns; however, the best I can do is to let you feast your eyes on them. If you like what you see, and trust my grilling recommendation, the recipe follows below. Viva il tonno!
~ 1 lb coarsely chopped fresh tuna steak
~ ¼ cup panko, or more if needed
1 Tbsp each: red pepper flakes, chopped green onion, ponzu sauce, mirin, sesame seeds, lemon juice, soy sauce, chilli sauce or paste
~ 1 egg white
~ Salt & Pepper to taste
~ Sesame oil to coat the patties
Mix all ingredients in a bowl, cover and chill for 1-2 hours. Shape the mixture into perfect small patties and coat with the sesame oil. Once the grill is hot, lower the heat and grill the patties over low flames for several minutes on each side. Add the small buns to lightly toast them. Remove everything from the grill, assemble, embellish, present and serve!
