Name: Tuna Cakes with Spicy Mayo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: asian fusion
Ingredients: 2 (142 g) cans flaked white tuna, drained; 2 green onions, finely chopped (whites and greens separated); 1 large egg; 1 tbsp soy sauce; 2 tbsp arrowroot powder (or regular flour); ¼ cup mayonnaise; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper, to taste; ½ cup gluten-free panko crumbs; 1 tbsp avocado oil, for frying; 1 tbsp sesame oil, for frying; For the Spicy Mayo:; ¼ cup mayonnaise; 1 tbsp lime juice; 2 tsp sriracha sauce (adjust to your spice preference); Salt and pepper, to taste

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If you’re looking for a delicious, quick, and gluten-free meal that’s packed with flavor, then these Asian Tuna Cakes with Spicy Mayo are just what you need. This dish combines the light, flaky texture of tuna with the aromatic punch of green onions, garlic, and a tangy spicy mayo. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these tuna cakes are sure to impress. The crispy, golden exterior gives way to a savory, tender inside, making each bite a delightful experience. And, with just 25 minutes from start to finish, this is a recipe you’ll want to add to your regular meal rotation.

Tuna Cakes with Spicy Mayo

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors. The tuna provides a healthy source of protein, while the combination of green onions and garlic gives it a savory depth. The crispy outside comes from the gluten-free panko crumbs, giving it that satisfying crunch. The real star of the dish is the spicy mayo, which elevates the entire meal with a spicy, creamy kick. It’s a versatile dish that works as an appetizer, light lunch, or even a main course. Best of all, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for those busy days when you still want something nutritious and flavorful.

Ingredients

2 (142 g) cans flaked white tuna, drained
2 green onions, finely chopped (whites and greens separated)
1 egg
1 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp arrowroot powder (or regular flour)
¼ cup mayonnaise
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste
½ cup gluten-free crumbs or panko crumbs
Avocado oil, for frying
Sesame oil, for frying

Tip: You can find all ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

Directions

Prepare the Tuna Mixture: Start by draining the cans of tuna and placing the tuna in a mixing bowl. Add the finely chopped whites of the green onions, the egg, soy sauce, arrowroot powder, mayonnaise, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s fully combined.
Form the Cakes: Shape the tuna mixture into small patties, about 2 inches in diameter. Then, coat each patty with gluten-free crumbs or panko to give them that delicious, crispy coating.
Cook the Tuna Cakes: Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat and add a mix of avocado oil and sesame oil. Once hot, carefully place the patties in the pan. Cook each side for about 2 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
Make the Spicy Mayo: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lime juice, sriracha sauce, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Adjust the sriracha to your preferred spice level.

Variations

Add Vegetables: Try adding finely chopped bell peppers or zucchini to the tuna mixture for added texture and flavor.
Crispier Cakes: For extra crunch, double-coat the cakes in the gluten-free crumbs before frying.
Tuna Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of tuna, you can substitute it with cooked salmon or chicken for a different take on the recipe.
Spicy Mayo Twist: Add a dash of honey to the spicy mayo for a sweet and spicy balance.

Heating and Storage

These tuna cakes can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat with a little oil to crisp them back up. You can also heat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until they’re warmed through.

If you want to freeze the cakes, arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze them in a single layer. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag and store for up to 2 months. To cook from frozen, simply fry them as you would fresh ones, adding a few extra minutes to ensure they’re fully cooked.

FAQ

1. Can I use canned tuna in oil instead of water?

Yes, canned tuna in oil will work, but it may make the cakes a bit greasier. If you use oil-packed tuna, you may want to reduce the amount of oil you use for frying.

2. Can I use a different type of flour instead of arrowroot powder?

Yes, you can use regular flour or a gluten-free all-purpose flour as a substitute for arrowroot powder.

3. Can I make these cakes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the tuna cakes and refrigerate them for up to 1 day before frying them. You can also freeze the uncooked cakes and fry them when ready to serve.

4. How can I make these cakes spicier?

To increase the heat, add more sriracha to the spicy mayo or mix some chili flakes directly into the tuna mixture.

5. Are these tuna cakes dairy-free?

Yes, this recipe is dairy-free as long as you use a dairy-free mayonnaise.

6. Can I make these tuna cakes in the oven instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake them! Preheat your oven to 375°F and bake the cakes for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through to get both sides golden brown.

7. Can I use a different type of oil for frying?

Yes, you can substitute avocado oil and sesame oil with other oils like olive oil, but the flavor might slightly change.

8. How do I know when the tuna cakes are cooked through?

The tuna cakes should be golden brown on the outside. You can check by cutting one open to ensure it’s heated all the way through, as tuna is already cooked.

9. Can I serve these cakes with a different sauce?

Absolutely! You could try serving them with a sweet chili sauce, tartar sauce, or even a simple lemon wedge for a refreshing twist.

10. Can I use frozen tuna for this recipe?

Fresh or canned tuna is recommended for this recipe, but if using frozen tuna, make sure it’s thoroughly thawed and drained before mixing.

Conclusion

These Asian Tuna Cakes with Spicy Mayo are the perfect blend of savory, crunchy, and spicy, making them a must-try for anyone looking for a quick yet satisfying meal. With just a few simple ingredients and a short cooking time, you’ll have a delicious dish ready to enjoy. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or meal, these cakes will surely become a favorite in your kitchen. So, give them a try and discover why this recipe is a crowd-pleaser!