When it comes to quick, flavorful meals that can whip up in no time, Easy Asian Tuna Cakes with Spicy Sriracha Mayo are a standout option in my kitchen. Picture this: a satisfying dish that comes together in under 30 minutes, made with pantry staples and packed with zesty flavor. These tuna cakes are perfect for busy weeknights or a casual get-together with friends. The delightful crunch, combined with the spicy mayo, elevates them to something truly special. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be making them again and again.
Why you’ll love this dish
There are countless reasons to make these Asian Tuna Cakes a go-to recipe. They are not only quick and easy to prepare, but they also make use of affordable ingredients—you might already have most of them on hand! This recipe is excellent for those with busy schedules needing a delicious meal in a flash. Whether you’re serving them as a main dish for dinner or as a fun appetizer at a gathering, these tuna cakes are kid-approved and bursting with flavor.
“I was pleasantly surprised by how tasty these were! My kids devoured them, and I loved the spicy kick from the mayo.”
Step-by-step overview
Creating these tuna cakes is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Start by combining all the flavorful ingredients in a bowl, then form them into patties and pan-fry until golden brown and crispy.
What you’ll need
Gather these simple yet vital ingredients to bring your Asian Tuna Cakes to life:
- 10 oz canned tuna in water: Make sure it’s high-quality for the best flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic: Minced for that aromatic touch.
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger: Grated to add brightness.
- 3 green onions: Chopped for freshness and crunch.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a binder.
- 1 tbsp lime juice: For a zesty kick.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Creaminess that balances the flavors.
- 1 tbsp soy sauce: For depth and umami.
- 1 tbsp sriracha: Adds that spicy punch.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: To season.
- 1 tsp sesame oil: For nutty flavor.
- 2 tbsp vegetable or canola oil: For frying.
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs: Provides that delightful crunch.
Feel free to substitute fresh ginger with ginger powder or omit ingredients based on your preferences!
Directions to follow

- In a large mixing bowl, combine the canned tuna, minced garlic, grated ginger, chopped green onions, egg, lime juice, mayonnaise, soy sauce, sriracha, black pepper, and sesame oil. Mix until well combined.
- Fold in the panko breadcrumbs until the mixture is cohesive.
- Shape the mixture into patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter.
- Heat the vegetable or canola oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the tuna patties and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the skillet and drain on a paper towel.
- Serve warm, topped with additional spicy sriracha mayo if desired.
Best ways to enjoy it
These tuna cakes shine as a main course and can hold their own as appetizers. Serve them with a side of steamed rice and a refreshing cucumber salad for a complete meal. Pair with extra spicy Sriracha mayo for dipping, and you have a hit dish that will impress your family and friends.
How to store & freeze
To keep your tuna cakes fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze them, wrap each patty individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake in the oven until warmed through and crispy again.
Helpful cooking tips
- Taste as you go: Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more or less sriracha.
- Prepping ahead: You can make the mixture a day ahead and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Frying in batches ensures every cake gets that golden brown crust.
Creative twists
Want to mix up the flavors? Try adding chopped cilantro or sesame seeds to the batter for a different taste. For a lighter option, consider baking the patties instead of frying. They’re also delicious served with a mango salsa or topped with avocado slices.
Common questions
What’s the prep time?
Prep time takes around 10 minutes, with cooking time adding another 10-15 minutes, making total time about 20-25 minutes.
Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?
Absolutely! Just cook your fresh tuna and flake it before using it in the recipe.
How spicy are these tuna cakes?
The level of spice can be adjusted based on how much Sriracha you add. If you’re sensitive to heat, start with less.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs, and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a standout appetizer, Easy Asian Tuna Cakes with Spicy Sriracha Mayo are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!
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Easy Asian Tuna Cakes with Spicy Sriracha Mayo
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten-Free Option Available
Description
Quick and flavorful Asian tuna cakes paired with a spicy sriracha mayo, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
- 10 oz canned tuna in water
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 2 tbsp vegetable or canola oil
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Combine the canned tuna, minced garlic, grated ginger, chopped green onions, egg, lime juice, mayonnaise, soy sauce, sriracha, black pepper, and sesame oil in a large mixing bowl. Mix until well combined.
- Fold in the panko breadcrumbs until the mixture is cohesive.
- Shape the mixture into patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter.
- Heat the vegetable or canola oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the tuna patties to the hot oil and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the skillet and drain on a paper towel.
- Serve warm, topped with additional spicy sriracha mayo if desired.
Notes
Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of sriracha added. These cakes can be baked instead of fried for a healthier option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-frying
- Cuisine: Asian