Masfathafolhi ( mini tuna cakes)

 I actually prefer these little domes of tuna cakes to the usual Boakibaa.  Its best made with  smoked tuna but if you cant get your hands on them use canned tuna.  Its almost the same as a boakibaa except the size and shape is different.
I prefer to grind my  rice rather than buy the pre ground packs found in the markets.  I don't know why but it just seems easier to handle and I can get the consistency I want.
My mum thought I have gone bonkers when she found out I was doing this rather than the easy way. I also mix the onion mix and then pulse a few times in the processor so they are roughly chopped, the boys don't like big strings of onions ....

They make good portable  snack for kids lunch box too, I mean its healthy right , its not fried , its got tuna ( which is good for you),  and its baked , not fried .Just add a few vegetables on the side  and  I think it makes a nice little snack for the kids.

Recipe: Masfathafolhi

1 1/2  cups rice ( I used basmathi)
1 ( 150g) fillet of  smoked tuna , thinly sliced ( or use
1/2 - 1 scotch bonnet , finely sliced
1 cup  finely grated coconut
1 large onion or 2 medium ones
2 sprigs of curry leaves, finely sliced
juice of 2 limes
1/2 tsp tumeric
1" ginger , grated
1/2 -3/4 cups water
salt
a little oil ( if you are not using baking paper)

Prepare the rice first by washing it several times  with running water and then soak in water for atleast 3-4 hours .  Then  drain and grind with 1/2 cup water. It shouldnt be too course but not too fine either. Set side.

In a large mixing bowl , add onions, lime juice and salt and mix with your finger tips till softened and releases their juices. Add the chillies , curry leaves,  ginger and the fish. Mince with your fingers till well mixed.

Now add the tumeric , coconut and ground rice and mix well. Taste adjust seasoning and lime juice. If the mixture looks too dry add a few table spoons of water.

Prepare  a baking tray, if you have  baking paper line the tray with it or rub a little oil such as corn or any other flavorless vegetable oil. Preheat oven to 180-200 degree C.

Take about 1/3 cup of fish mix and make a ball and flatten up one side and shape it like a dome. Place on baking sheet and repeat with the rest , leave a 1/2 inch gap between each dome.  Once done, slash a cross on top of each bun, like hot cross buns , and pop in the oven for  30-45 minutes till done. It should turn a reddish brown.

Enjoy with  a hot cup of tea.

Ps. These freeze well too, just make the domes and place on a  tray and pop in freezer for 1 hour, remove and then place the frozen ones in a zip lock bag and return to the freezer. Thaw in the fridge a few hours before baking.