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Easy Spicy Tuna Cakes

Easy Spicy Tuna Cakes
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Easy Spicy Tuna Cakes are a flavorful and quick recipe combining tender canned tuna with bold spices and simple pantry ingredients. Ready in under 30 minutes, these versatile cakes offer a satisfying blend of heat, texture, and freshness ideal for appetizers, main dishes, or packed lunches. They are high in protein, low in carbs, and perfect for a healthy, guilt-free meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 can (5 oz) tuna packed in water, drained thoroughly
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free crackers/almond flour for gluten-free)
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tbsp mayonnaise (or extra mayo/avocado for dairy-free)
  • 1 tbsp sriracha or hot sauce (adjust to taste)
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • 1 tbsp lime juice (preferably fresh)
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

For Cooking

  • 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Tuna Mixture: Drain the canned tuna well to remove excess moisture. In a mixing bowl, combine the tuna with breadcrumbs, egg, mayonnaise, lime juice, sriracha, chopped green onions, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is moist but holds together firmly.
  2. Form the Cakes: Using your hands, shape the mixture into small round patties approximately 3 inches in diameter. Try to keep them uniform in size for even cooking.
  3. Heat the Pan: Warm olive oil or vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat until it shimmers, indicating it is hot enough for frying.
  4. Cook the Tuna Cakes: Carefully place the formed patties in the hot oil, leaving space between each to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until the cakes are golden brown and cooked through. Flip gently to prevent breaking.
  5. Drain and Serve: Transfer cooked cakes to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. Serve warm with your choice of dips or sides, garnished as desired.

Notes

  • Dry the tuna thoroughly to prevent soggy cakes.
  • Chill formed patties in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before cooking to help them hold their shape better.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan; leave space between patties so they cook evenly and crisp up.
  • Adjust the spice level by tasting the mixture before forming and adding extra sriracha or hot sauce if desired.
  • Use fresh lime juice for a brighter and fresher flavor compared to bottled alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: spicy tuna cakes, quick tuna recipe, tuna patties, appetizer, healthy tuna recipe, gluten-free tuna cakes

Find it online: https://mealsbysarah.com/easy-spicy-tuna-cakes/