Description
These Spicy Tuna Cakes are a flavorful and easy-to-make dish combining canned tuna, fresh jalapeño, green onions, cilantro, and a blend of spices. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, they make a perfect appetizer or light meal when pan-fried to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 18 oz. canned tuna (undrained weight 24 oz., drained of liquid)
- 1 medium jalapeño, diced (half the seeds included)
- 1/3 cup green onions, finely chopped
- 1/3 cup cilantro, finely chopped
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Prepare the tuna mixture: Strain the canned tuna to remove excess liquid, then use a fork to chop the tuna chunks slightly. In a mixing bowl, combine the tuna with diced jalapeño (including half of the seeds), finely chopped green onions and cilantro, the egg, Greek yogurt, Panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, ground cumin, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly to evenly distribute the ingredients.
- Form patties: Using your hands, shape the tuna mixture into approximately six evenly sized patties. Arrange them on a platter and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to allow them to set and firm up, which helps prevent breaking during cooking.
- Cook the patties: Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and once hot, carefully sauté about three patties at a time. Cook each side until golden brown and crispy, making sure to flip gently to avoid breaking the fragile patties. This process will take about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Serve: Serve the spicy tuna cakes warm, optionally accompanied by a spoonful of Chipotle Ranch Dressing for added flavor.
Notes
- For best results, use a cast iron skillet for even heat distribution and a nice crust.
- Refrigerating the patties before cooking helps them hold their shape better during frying.
- Adjust the heat level by modifying the amount of jalapeño seeds included.
- These patties are fragile, so handle carefully when flipping.
- Chipotle Ranch Dressing pairs well, but you can use tartar sauce or a simple squeeze of lemon as alternatives.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
