Looking for a delicious way to elevate your weeknight dinners? Asian Tuna Cakes with Spicy Mayo bring a delightful fusion of flavors that can brighten any meal occasion. These crispy cakes, bursting with umami and served with a zesty dipping sauce, are perfect for impressing family or guests alike. Best of all, they’re quick to prepare, making them an ideal option for a busy weekday or a relaxed weekend brunch.
Why you’ll love this dish
What makes Asian Tuna Cakes so special? First off, they are incredibly versatile. You can enjoy them as a main dish, a snack, or even a party appetizer. Infused with aromatic garlic and fresh green onions, each bite is a delightful combination of textures and flavors. Plus, they can be on your table in less than 30 minutes!
These cakes are not just tasty but also budget-friendly, making them a smart choice for anyone looking to whip up something delicious without breaking the bank. And if you have kids at home, they are likely to love these crispy treats, especially with the addition of a spicy mayo dipping sauce!
"These tuna cakes are a revelation! They’re crispy on the outside, packed with flavor, and pair perfectly with the spicy mayo."
The cooking process explained
Creating these Asian Tuna Cakes is straightforward and rewarding. Begin by mixing all the ingredients in a bowl. Shape the mixture into patties and coat them in breadcrumbs for that satisfying crunch. Then, simply pan-fry them until golden brown and serve hot. With just a few steps, you’ll have a beautiful dish ready to impress!
What you’ll need
Here’s what goes into making these delicious cakes:
- 2 (142 g) cans Tuna, flaked white
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 2 Green onions, chopped
- 1 Egg
- 1/4 cup Mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp Soy sauce
- 2 tbsp Arrowroot powder
- Avocado oil for frying
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sesame oil
- 1/2 cup Crumbs or panko crumbs (use gluten-free for a gluten-sensitive option)
Substitution tips
Don’t have arrowroot powder? You can easily swap it for cornstarch or any other gluten-free flour. If you’re out of green onions, finely chopped onion or shallots will work just as well!
Step-by-step instructions

- In a mixing bowl, combine the flaked tuna, minced garlic, chopped green onions, egg, mayonnaise, soy sauce, arrowroot powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until all the ingredients are well combined.
- Form the mixture into small patties and coat each patty with gluten-free crumbs for added crunch.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add avocado oil.
- Fry the tuna cakes for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown.
- Drizzle with sesame oil for that extra layer of flavor before serving.
- Serve alongside a spicy mayo or your favorite dipping sauce to complement the cakes beautifully.
Best ways to enjoy it
These Asian Tuna Cakes are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. You can plate them simply with a garnish of fresh herbs or a citrus wedge for a splash of color. Pair them with a refreshing green salad tossed with sesame dressing, or serve them alongside steamed veggies for a balanced meal. For those who love a little crunch and spice, a side of pickled vegetables can elevate your dish even further.
Storage and reheating tips
To store any leftovers, allow the tuna cakes to cool completely, and then pop them into an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to save them for an even longer period, you can freeze them as well! Just ensure they are individually wrapped before placing them in a freezer bag. When reheating, a quick pan-fry on medium heat will bring back that crispy texture.
Helpful cooking tips
- Ensure the oil is properly heated before frying; this will prevent the cakes from absorbing too much oil.
- For added flavor, consider mixing in spices like ginger or chili flakes to the tuna mixture.
- If you find the mixture too wet, a bit more arrowroot powder can help bind it together.
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? You can add unexpected flavors by mixing in some chopped cilantro or grated carrot for natural sweetness. If you’re a spicy food aficionado, consider adding finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the tuna mixture. And don’t forget about alternative glazes or dips; a tangy sweet chili sauce can complement these cakes beautifully.
Common questions
What’s the prep time for these tuna cakes?
You’re looking at about 10 minutes of prep time, with cooking taking an additional 15 to 20 minutes. It’s a quick and rewarding dish!
Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?
Absolutely! Just make sure to cook and flake the fresh tuna before adding it to the mixture.
How long will leftovers last in the fridge?
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure they are in an airtight container.
Are these cakes gluten-free?
Yes! As long as you use gluten-free breadcrumbs or panko, these cakes can easily accommodate a gluten-sensitive diet.
Getting into the kitchen to make these Asian Tuna Cakes is a decision you won’t regret. They’re quick, flavorful, and a perfect way to shake up your dinner routine!
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Asian Tuna Cakes with Spicy Mayo
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
Crispy Asian Tuna Cakes infused with garlic and green onions, served with a spicy mayo dipping sauce, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or entertaining.
Ingredients
- 2 (142 g) cans Tuna, flaked white
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 2 Green onions, chopped
- 1 Egg
- 1/4 cup Mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp Soy sauce
- 2 tbsp Arrowroot powder
- Avocado oil for frying
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sesame oil
- 1/2 cup Crumbs or panko crumbs (use gluten-free for a gluten-sensitive option)
Instructions
- Combine the flaked tuna, minced garlic, chopped green onions, egg, mayonnaise, soy sauce, arrowroot powder, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl.
- Mix until all the ingredients are well combined.
- Form the mixture into small patties and coat each patty with gluten-free crumbs for added crunch.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add avocado oil.
- Fry the tuna cakes for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown.
- Drizzle with sesame oil for that extra layer of flavor before serving.
- Serve alongside a spicy mayo or your favorite dipping sauce to complement the cakes beautifully.
Notes
Ensure the oil is heated properly before frying to prevent the cakes from absorbing too much oil. You can also add spices like ginger or chili flakes for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian