Asian-Style Tuna Cakes with Spicy Mayo are a scrumptious and nutritious dish that highlights the delightful flavors of Asian cuisine. These cakes are moist, packed with protein, and bursting with umami thanks to the soy sauce and sesame oil. Paired with a creamy and spicy mayo, this dish makes for a satisfying meal or an impressive appetizer. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick weeknight meal, these tuna cakes are the perfect choice.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 6-8 patties
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: Approx. 220 calories
- Protein: 24 grams
- Carbohydrates: 12 grams
- Fat: 10 grams
- Fiber: 1 gram
- Sugar: 1 gram
- Sodium: 480 mg
Why Make This Asian-Style Tuna Cakes with Spicy Mayo
These Asian-Style Tuna Cakes with Spicy Mayo are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. Using canned tuna keeps the recipe simple and budget-friendly—perfect for busy home cooks. The crispy exterior and tender inside create a satisfying texture, while the spicy mayo adds a zestful kick that elevates the dish. These cakes are versatile, too; serve them as a light lunch, a party appetizer, or with a salad for dinner.
How to Make Asian-Style Tuna Cakes with Spicy Mayo
Ingredients:
- 2 cans (about 10 oz total) of tuna, drained
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil for frying
For the Spicy Mayo:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, panko breadcrumbs, green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, grated ginger, beaten egg, chopped cilantro, salt, and pepper. Mix until all the ingredients are well combined.
Step 2: Shaping
Using your hands, shape the mixture into small patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter. You should get about 6-8 patties depending on their size.
Step 3: Cooking
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the tuna patties to the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove the cooked patties and drain on paper towels if needed.
Step 4: Finishing
While the tuna cakes are cooking, prepare the spicy mayo. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, and lime juice. Stir until smooth and creamy. Serve the tuna cakes hot, topped with a dollop of spicy mayo and garnished with extra chopped cilantro if desired.
How to Serve Asian-Style Tuna Cakes with Spicy Mayo
Serve these tuna cakes with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. They’re also great as finger food for parties; simply place them on a platter with the spicy mayo for dipping. For added freshness, garnish with lime wedges or extra cilantro.
How to Store Asian-Style Tuna Cakes with Spicy Mayo
If you have leftovers, store the cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure to keep the spicy mayo separate to maintain the texture. Reheat the cakes in a skillet on medium heat for a few minutes on each side until warmed through.
Expert Tips for Perfect Asian-Style Tuna Cakes with Spicy Mayo
- Make sure you drain the tuna well to avoid a soggy mixture.
- If you want a little more crunch, consider adding finely chopped bell peppers or carrots to the mixture.
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of panko.
- Adjust the level of spiciness in the mayo by adding more or less sriracha according to your taste.
Delicious Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute tuna with mashed chickpeas or black beans for a tasty vegetarian version.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate grated zucchini or corn into the mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with herbs like mint or basil in place of cilantro for a unique twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tuna. Just make sure to cook it through before mixing it with the other ingredients. -
How long do these cakes take to cook?
Each side typically takes about 3-4 minutes, depending on the heat of your skillet. -
Can I bake these cakes instead?
Yes, you can bake them! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake on a greased baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. -
What can I serve with these cakes?
These cakes pair perfectly with a crisp salad, rice, or even a light soup. -
Can I freeze the tuna cakes?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked patties. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 3 months. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Conclusion
Asian-Style Tuna Cakes with Spicy Mayo are a delightful combination of flavors and textures that’s sure to impress. Easy to make and versatile for serving, they hold a perfect balance of savory and spicy. Whether you’re after a quick meal or looking to wow your guests, these cakes are a fantastic choice. Gather your ingredients, unleash your inner chef, and enjoy this delicious dish at your next meal!
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Asian-Style Tuna Cakes with Spicy Mayo
- Author: lydia
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 patties 1x
- Diet: Protein-Rich
Description
Delicious and nutritious tuna cakes packed with Asian flavors, served with a spicy mayo dipping sauce.
Ingredients
- 2 cans (about 10 oz total) of tuna, drained
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil for frying
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, panko breadcrumbs, green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, grated ginger, beaten egg, chopped cilantro, salt, and pepper. Mix until all the ingredients are well combined.
- Using your hands, shape the mixture into small patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter. You should get about 6-8 patties depending on their size.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the tuna patties to the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove the cooked patties and drain on paper towels if needed.
- While the tuna cakes are cooking, prepare the spicy mayo. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, and lime juice. Stir until smooth and creamy. Serve the tuna cakes hot, topped with a dollop of spicy mayo and garnished with extra chopped cilantro if desired.
Notes
Make sure to drain the tuna well to avoid a soggy mixture. For added crunch, consider adding finely chopped bell peppers or carrots. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 patty
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 70mg





