Intro and Brief Recap
Have you ever craved a dish that combines the vibrant flavors of Asia with the comforting essence of home-cooked meals? The Asian-Style Tuna Cakes with Spicy Mayo fulfill that desire beautifully. Imagine sinking your teeth into golden-brown cakes, bursting with tender tuna and aromatic spices, each bite enhanced by a creamy, spicy mayo that tantalizes your taste buds. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience brimming with flavor and texture.
These tuna cakes are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a lively gathering with friends. I distinctly remember the first time I made these delightful cakes; the aroma filled my kitchen, drawing everyone in, eager to taste the magic. With every bite, they were met with smiles and compliments. As you prepare this dish, anticipate the joy it will bring to your table as you share it with loved ones.
Key Ingredients For Asian-Style Tuna Cakes with Spicy Mayo
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Canned Tuna: Opt for high-quality tuna packed in water or oil for enhanced flavor and moisture.
- Breadcrumbs: Use panko breadcrumbs for a light and crunchy texture that holds the cakes together.
- Green Onions: Fresh green onions add a mild onion flavor that complements the tuna perfectly.
- Sesame Oil: A splash of sesame oil infuses an authentic Asian flavor into the cakes.
- Eggs: Eggs act as a binder, helping to hold everything together while adding richness.
For the Sauce:
- Mayonnaise: Use good quality mayonnaise as the base for your spicy sauce.
- Sriracha Sauce: Adjust the amount of sriracha based on your spice preference for an extra kick.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Instructions For Asian-Style Tuna Cakes with Spicy Mayo
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
First Step : Prepare Your Ingredients
Begin by draining the canned tuna thoroughly. In a large mixing bowl, combine the tuna, breadcrumbs, chopped green onions, sesame oil, and eggs until well mixed.
Second Step : Form The Cakes
With clean hands, shape the mixture into small patties about one inch thick. Place them on a plate lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Third Step : Cook The Cakes
Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Carefully add the tuna cakes to the pan and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and crispy.
Fourth Step : Make The Spicy Mayo
In a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise and sriracha sauce until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Fifth Step : Serve And Enjoy
Transfer cooked tuna cakes to a serving platter. Drizzle generously with spicy mayo or serve it on the side for dipping.
For an impressive presentation, garnish your plates with fresh herbs before serving.
Expert Tips
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Choose Quality Tuna: Select sustainably sourced canned tuna for better flavor and environmental impact.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Modify the sriracha in your spicy mayo according to your taste preference—add more for heat or less for mildness.
- Chill Before Cooking: Refrigerate formed patties for at least 30 minutes before cooking to help them hold their shape better during frying.
Preparation Tips
To make the perfect Asian-Style Tuna Cakes with Spicy Mayo, follow these preparation tips. First, ensure that you use high-quality canned tuna. Look for tuna packed in water or olive oil for the best flavor. Drain it well to avoid soggy cakes. Next, chop your vegetables finely; this allows them to blend seamlessly into the mixture and enhances texture. Additionally, consider chilling the mixture for about 30 minutes before forming the cakes. This step helps them hold their shape better during cooking.
Cooking Instructions
Cooking your Asian-Style Tuna Cakes with Spicy Mayo is a straightforward process. Begin by heating a non-stick skillet over medium heat and adding a small amount of oil. Form the chilled mixture into patties, approximately three inches in diameter. Once the skillet is hot, gently place the patties in it without overcrowding the pan. Cook each side for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Serve them hot with a drizzle of spicy mayo on top.
Serving Suggestions
These Asian-Style Tuna Cakes with Spicy Mayo are delightful served alongside various dishes. Consider pairing them with a fresh salad dressed in sesame vinaigrette for a light meal. Alternatively, serve them on a bed of rice or quinoa for added sustenance. For a fun twist, place the patties in lettuce wraps as a low-carb option. They also make an excellent appetizer when served with dipping sauces like sweet chili sauce.
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers of your Asian-Style Tuna Cakes with Spicy Mayo, store them properly to maintain freshness. Allow the cakes to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. Refrigerate them for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing the uncooked patties instead; they can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, cook from frozen or let thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.
Presentation Ideas
This Asian-Style Tuna Cakes with Spicy Mayo is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- A side of pickled vegetables, which adds a tangy crunch that complements the flavors.
- Fresh herbs, such as cilantro or green onions, sprinkled on top enhance both presentation and taste.
- A squeeze of lime juice brightens up the dish and balances out richness.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned for Asian-Style Tuna Cakes?
Yes, you can absolutely use fresh tuna! Just make sure to cook it first by grilling or searing it until it’s cooked through but still moist. Once cooled, flake it into small pieces before mixing it with other ingredients for your cakes.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise in spicy mayo?
If you’re looking for alternatives to mayonnaise in your spicy mayo recipe, Greek yogurt works well as a healthier option and adds creaminess without excess fat. You could also combine sour cream with sriracha or chili paste to achieve that spicy kick while maintaining richness.
How do I know when my tuna cakes are done cooking?
Your Asian-Style Tuna Cakes are done cooking when they turn golden brown on both sides and feel firm to touch but still slightly soft in the center. You can test one by cutting it open; it should be hot throughout without being dry.
Can I bake these tuna cakes instead of frying?
Certainly! Baking is a healthier alternative if you’d prefer not to fry your Asian-Style Tuna Cakes with Spicy Mayo. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the patties on a lined baking sheet, brush lightly with oil, and bake for about 15-20 minutes until golden brown and cooked through, flipping halfway through.
Asian-Style Tuna Cakes with Spicy Mayo
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 (makes about 8 cakes) 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
Asian-Style Tuna Cakes with Spicy Mayo are a delightful fusion of vibrant Asian flavors and comforting home-cooked goodness. These golden-brown patties, filled with tender tuna and aromatic spices, are served with a creamy, spicy mayo that adds the perfect kick. Ideal for any occasion, these cakes are sure to impress your family and friends while providing a satisfying meal that brings smiles to every table.
Ingredients
- 1 can (5 oz) high-quality tuna, drained
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tsp sriracha sauce
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine drained tuna, panko breadcrumbs, green onions, sesame oil, and egg. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into small patties (about 1 inch thick) and place them on parchment paper.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook each patty for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown.
- For the spicy mayo, mix mayonnaise and sriracha in a separate bowl until smooth.
- Serve the tuna cakes hot with spicy mayo drizzled on top or on the side.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cake (45g)
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 340mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: - Use sustainably sourced canned tuna for better flavor and environmental impact. - Adjust sriracha levels in the sauce based on personal spice preference. - Chill patties for at least 30 minutes before cooking to help maintain their shape.



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