Tuna cakes also called tuna patties or tuna fritters are a quick and tasty meal. They got a flaky feel and salty taste that fits just about any time you hungry. You can make them small for snack or big for dinner. They mix canned tuna with simple stuff like eggs, breadcrumbs and spices so its easy for busy cooks.
Tuna is one of the most versatle things you can buy in a can. You can toss it in salads, casseroles or sandwiches. But tuna cakes is extra easy and you can change them how you like. When days is crazy busy, you need fast and healthy meals. These cakes gives you protein and Omega-3 fat and fill you up quick.
This recipe for tuna cakes is good not only cause its easy but cause they taste so good. Picture golden brown patties that crunch on the outside and soft inside. You can dip them or eat plain. With a few simple steps you can whip them up and feel proud. Whether you serving friends or family, tuna cakes might become your go to meal. Lets jump in and make some.
What Are Tuna Cakes?
Tuna cakes often called tuna patties or fritters are little savory cakes made from canned tuna and other simple things. You just mix the drained tuna with binding stuff and spices, make patties and fry them till golden. Lots of people like them cause they taste good and you can serve them many ways.
No one knows exact when they started but many cultures used canned fish as a cheap food. Tuna cakes started as a quick fix for families that want a filling meal fast. Its been in kitchens for decades because you dont need fancy tools or big time to make them.
Tuna cakes also good for your body. They got lots of protein for muscles and Omega-3 for heart and brain. You can add herbs or veggies for more vitamins and minerals. Serve them as snack, app or main dish, they fit all kind of meals.
Ingredients for Tuna Cakes
To make tasty tuna cakes, youll need some basic items. Main thing is canned tuna. Pick a good brand, like albacore or skipjack in water or oil.
- Canned Tuna: The main part—drain it good so no water remains.
- Binding Agents: Things like bread crumbs and eggs help cakes stick.
- Flavor Boosters: Onions, garlic, salt, pepper and other spices for taste.
- Optional Stuff: Try parsley, dill, bell pepper or corn for extra crunch and flavor.
Fresh and good quality ingredients makes cakes more yummy. Now gather everything and start cooking.
Ingredients for Tuna Cakes
If you want to try this recipe, you must gather these items:
- Canned Tuna: Good quality and drained
- Breadcrumbs: For hold and texture
- Egg: Binds ingredients
- Veggies: Onion, bell pepper, garlic chopped
- Seasoning: Salt, pepper and herbs
With these in hand, you almost ready to start mixing.
Detailed Tuna Cakes Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cans tuna (5 oz each), drained
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup chopped onion
- ¼ cup chopped bell pepper
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Optional: squeeze of lemon, dash of hot sauce
Directions
1. Prepare the tuna
Drain tuna very well and flake it with a fork into a big bowl so no big chunks left.
2. Mix ingredients
Add breadcrumbs, egg, onion, bell pepper, garlic, parsley, salt and pepper to the tuna. Stir it all till its mixed good. The mix should be sticky and hold when you press it.
3. Form patties
Grab handfuls of mix and shape into rounds about 1 inch thick. Pack them tight or they will fall apart. Place on plate or paper so you can keep going.
4. Cook the cakes
Heat skillet over medium with little oil. Put patties in careful, dont crowd them. Cook 4-5 min each side or till golden brown. If you want, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 min, flip half way.
5. Resting and serving
Let cakes sit on paper towel to soak extra oil. Serve warm with sour cream, salad or lemon juice. Theyre best fresh.
Tips for Perfect Tuna Cakes
- Pick right tuna: Water or oil packed tuna works best.
- Texture fix: More breadcrumbs makes firmer cakes, less makes softer ones.
- Cooking tip: Hot oil is key for crispy outside, dont rush it.
- Store right: Keep leftovers in airtight box in fridge up to 3 days. Reheat in oven or pan.
Variations on Tuna Cakes
- Blackened style: Add cajun spice mix for some heat.
- Mediterranean version: Mix in olives, feta and oregano.
- Asian twist: Use soy sauce, ginger and lots of scallions.
- Veggie option: Swap tuna for mashed chickpeas and season well.
Pairing Suggestions for Tuna Cakes
You can serve tuna cakes with many sides. Good matches are:
- Sides: Coleslaw, roasted veggies or cucumber salad.
- Dips: Tartar sauce, aioli or yogurt dip taste good.
- Drinks: Light white wine or cold sparkling water.
Tuna Cakes & Health Benefits
Tuna cakes not only taste good but help your body to. They got protein for muscles and Omega-3 fats for brain and heart. Eating fish like tuna helps you eat balanced and still have a fast meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you make tuna cakes stick together? Use enough eggs and breadcrumbs and press patties tight.
Can you freeze them? Yeah you can freeze raw patties on a tray till firm then put in box up to 3 months.
What instead of breadcrumbs? Try crushed crackers, panko or ground oats for gf choice.
Are they gluten-free? They can be if you use gf crumbs or other filler.
How long they last in fridge? Up to 3 days in a sealed container.
Conclusion
Tuna cakes are easy, healthy and yummy for any meal. Theyre great for weeknights or when you got friends over. Try this recipe and play with flavors till you find your favorite. Enjoy cooking!
tuna cakes recipe
Equipment
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 skillet
- 1 spatula
- 1 measuring cups
- 1 measuring spoons
- 1 fork
- 1 plate for serving
Ingredients
- 2 cans tuna, drained 5 oz each can
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup mayonnaise Can substitute with Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
- ¼ cup green onion, finely chopped
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For frying.
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, chopped green onion, egg, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Use a fork to mix until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into 4 equal patties (about ½ inch thick).
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Once the skillet is hot, add the tuna patties and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the cakes from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
- Serve the tuna cakes warm, with your choice of dipping sauce or alongside a fresh salad.
