Tuna cakes are a classic comfort food that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. These savory patties are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, this recipe will guide you through every step to create delicious tuna cakes that your family will love.
Why You’ll Love This Tuna Cake Recipe
Tuna cakes are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in countless ways. Serve them as a quick and easy weeknight dinner, a satisfying lunch, or even as appetizers for your next gathering. Plus, they’re a great way to use up leftover canned tuna.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Tuna Cakes:
- 1 (12-ounce) can tuna, drained and flaked
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs (panko or regular)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Serving (Optional):
- Lemon wedges
- Tartar sauce
- Mixed greens
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl
- Fork
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Large skillet
- Spatula
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Tuna Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the drained tuna, bread crumbs, mayonnaise, egg, celery, red onion, parsley, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Use a fork to mix everything together until well combined.
- Shape the Tuna Cakes: Scoop out about 1/4 cup of the tuna mixture and form it into a patty about 1/2-inch thick. Repeat with the remaining mixture. You should have about 6-8 tuna cakes.
- Cook the Tuna Cakes: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add about 2 tablespoons of oil. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the tuna cakes in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
- Cook Until Golden Brown: Cook the tuna cakes for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the tuna cakes from the skillet and serve them immediately. You can enjoy them on their own, with a side of tartar sauce, a squeeze of lemon juice, or on a bed of mixed greens.
Tuna Cakes Cooking
Tips for the Best Tuna Cakes
- Don’t overmix the tuna mixture. Overmixing will result in tough tuna cakes.
- If the mixture is too wet, add a tablespoon or two of extra bread crumbs. This will help them hold their shape.
- For crispier tuna cakes, pan-fry them in a little bit of oil.
- “I always add a dash of hot sauce to my tuna cake mixture for an extra kick,” says Chef Emily Carter, author of “The Seafood Cookbook.”
FAQs About Making Tuna Cakes
Can I bake tuna cakes instead of pan-frying them?
Yes, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
What can I serve with tuna cakes?
Tuna cakes pair well with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad.
Can I freeze leftover tuna cakes?
Yes, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Let them cool completely before freezing.
Tuna Cakes Plated
Conclusion
Making delicious tuna cakes at home is easier than you think! With this simple recipe and helpful tips, you’ll be enjoying these savory patties in no time. Get creative with your toppings and sides, and don’t forget to share your culinary masterpiece with family and friends. Happy cooking!
