Tuna Balls
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds sustainable tuna steak
- Salt and pepper
- 3 tablespoons capers, chopped
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup lightly toasted pine nuts
- 1/2 cup flat-leaf parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon red chili flakes
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs, lightly toasted
- 1/2 cup grated Pecorino cheese
- 3 tablespoons EVOO – Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- Lemon wedges, to serve or tomato sauce for topping
For the Simple Tomato Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 large cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 cup chicken stock
- 1 28-ounce can San Marzano tomatoes, crushed by hand
- 1 cup passata or tomato purée
- A handful of basil, torn
- Salt and pepper
Preparation
In a food processor, pulse the tuna to finely chop and transfer to a mixing bowl. Season tuna with salt and pepper; add capers, lemon zest, pine nuts, parsley, oregano, chili flakes, egg, breadcrumbs, cheese and EVOO. Mix to combine and chill 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Preheat oven to 400°F.
For the Simple Tomato Sauce:
Heat oil and butter over medium heat until butter foams; add onions and garlic. Season with oregano, salt and pepper; cover and sweat 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add stock, tomatoes and passata, and bring to a bubble. Reduce heat to a low simmer, stir in torn basil and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook down 25-30 minutes. Makes 1 quart of sauce.