Tuna, Smoke Flavored

[Gearloose]

This is another of my versions of the prepackaged foil pouch tunas. The Star Kist smoked tuna is a bit "ordinary" by my tastes, so this version is a little more jazzed up. It's a bit more involved to make. Don't skimp on the marinating time or the smokey flavor will be lessened.

2 cans Tuna, water packed
1 teaspoon Liquid Smoke flavoring
1 teaspoon ground mustard powder
2 teaspoons granulated onion powder
1/4 teaspoon white pepper
1/2 teaspoon Paprika or mild red chile powder
1 tablespoon Splenda (optional, but I think it improves the overall flavor)

Drain the tuna, but save the drained liquid in a measuring cup to make the marinade. Place the tuna in a small glass or stainless steel bowl. Add enough water to the drained liquid to make 1/2 cup total. Add the liquid smoke and dry spices to the 1/2 cup of liquid. Whisk or stir with a fork until well blended and there are no clumps of spice floating around in the marinade. Pour the marinade over the tuna in the bowl and toss until the tuna is well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate at least four hours and preferably overnight. Drain the tuna through a mesh strainer or colander lined with cheesecloth. Discard the drained off marinade. Use the tuna in salads, sandwich wraps, or your favorite tuna recipes.

Let me know what you think of this one. I've only made this recipe once, but thought it pretty good, especially after an overnight marinade. If you come up with a tasty variation, please let me know.