Surimi is generally found in the frozen foods aisle, sold in blocks or in sticks, flakes or slices.

Surimi has become a star convenience food. Economical and already cooked, it can be made into a salad with mayonnaise, apple and celery.

Flaked in a food processor, it becomes a filling for crêpes or hollowed out tomatoes.

Try it as tempura: Dip a stick of surimi in a batter made from flour, baking powder and ice water. Fry in hot oil for a few minutes - it's delicious served with a soy-ginger dipping sauce.