Tuna Tartar

Carefully dice the tuna with a sharp knife into 1/8 inch dice. Transfer the diced tuna into a stainless steel bowl set over ice. Dice the tomatoes into a size equal to the diced tuna. Combine the tuna, tomatoes, shallots, chives, peanuts, and peanut oil in a mixing bowl. Season to taste with salt and freshly cracked black pepper.

Using a 2 inch ring, mold the tuna tartar onto the center of individual plates. Be sure to pack it tightly in to the mold so that it will retain its shape when molded. Remove the molds and garnish with alfalfa sprouts. Serve with toasted baguette slices or something crispy to act as a counterpoint to the tuna.

NOTE: Ring molds are available in various sizes. Using them makes the most dramatic presentation.