Irresistible Crispy Asian-Style Tuna Cakes with Spicy Mayo

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When you bite into a crispy Asian-style tuna cake with spicy mayo, it’s like your taste buds just got invited to a flavor party. The crunchiness of the exterior meets the tender, savory interior, while the spicy mayo adds a luscious kick that dances on your tongue. You can practically hear a symphony of flavors playing! These little delights are perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself after a long day.

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I remember the first time I made these crispy tuna cakes; my friends were skeptical at first. But one bite in, their eyes widened like they had just discovered chocolate for the first time. Now, we whip them up every chance we get—perfect for game nights, casual dinners, or even a fancy brunch. Trust me; once you make these, you’ll be counting down the days until you can make them again.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • These crispy Asian-style tuna cakes are incredibly easy to prepare and come together in no time
  • Their delightful blend of flavors and textures makes every bite unforgettable
  • Visually appealing with their golden crust, they will impress anyone who sees them on your table
  • Versatile enough to serve as appetizers or main dishes, they fit any occasion beautifully

Sharing this dish with family during our Friday night gatherings always makes me feel warm inside.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Canned Tuna: Opt for high-quality tuna packed in water for better flavor and texture.

  • Panko Breadcrumbs: These Japanese breadcrumbs give an unbeatable crunch—don’t settle for regular ones!

  • Green Onions: Freshly chopped green onions add a burst of freshness and vibrant color.

  • Eggs: Use large eggs to bind everything together perfectly.

  • Mayonnaise: Creamy mayonnaise enhances moisture while adding richness to the mixture.

  • Soy Sauce: A splash of soy sauce brings umami depth that complements tuna beautifully.

  • Sesame Oil: This fragrant oil adds an irresistible nutty aroma that elevates the cakes.

  • Spices (Ginger & Garlic Powder): A hint of ginger and garlic powder spices things up just right.

  • Hot Sauce (optional): For those who love a bit more heat, feel free to add some hot sauce!

For the Spicy Mayo:

  • Mayonnaise: Use more mayo here—because why not indulge?

  • Sriracha Sauce: Adjust according to your spice tolerance; it’s all about finding your perfect balance.

  • Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens the mayo and adds zing!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Crispy Asian-style Tuna Cakes with Spicy Mayo

How to Make Crispy Asian-style Tuna Cakes with Spicy Mayo

Prepare Your Mixing Bowl: In a large mixing bowl, combine drained canned tuna with panko breadcrumbs and chopped green onions. The mixture should smell appetizing as you mix!

Add Flavorful Ingredients: Next, add eggs, mayonnaise, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger powder, garlic powder, and hot sauce if using. Mix thoroughly until everything is well combined.

Form Patties with Love: Using your hands or an ice cream scoop, form equal-sized patties from the mixture. Place them on a plate lined with parchment paper so they don’t stick together.

Heat Up That Pan!: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a splash of oil. Once shimmering but not smoking (like when you’re trying not to burn dinner), you’re ready for action!

Crisp Those Cakes!: Gently place patties in the skillet without overcrowding—this ensures even cooking. Fry until golden brown on each side (about 3-4 minutes) while enjoying that heavenly aroma wafting through your kitchen.

Whip Up the Spicy Mayo!: While cooking those delicious cakes, whip up your spicy mayo by combining mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, and lime juice in a small bowl. Taste-test for spice level—you know what you like best!

Serve those crispy Asian-style tuna cakes hot with a drizzle of spicy mayo on top and maybe some extra lime wedges on the side for that zesty kick!

With this recipe tucked away in your culinary arsenal, you’ll find yourself becoming the go-to chef among friends and family! Enjoy every bite!

You Must Know

  • These crispy Asian-style tuna cakes are not just delicious; they provide a delightful crunch with every bite
  • Enjoy them fresh for lunch or as a party snack
  • The spicy mayo complements the flavors perfectly, making this dish a crowd-pleaser every time

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by mixing the tuna with seasonings and breadcrumbs, then form patties before frying for an even cook.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap tuna for salmon or add chopped vegetables for extra crunch and flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover cakes in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat on a skillet for best results.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • To achieve perfect crispy Asian-style tuna cakes, ensure your oil is hot before frying
  • Consider using panko breadcrumbs for extra texture
  • Let the patties rest before cooking to firm up, preventing breakage during frying

Sharing these crispy Asian-style tuna cakes with friends turned into a memorable potluck moment when everyone went back for seconds, leaving me with only crumbs.

FAQ

How can I make crispy Asian-style tuna cakes gluten-free?

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers as a substitute.

What dipping sauces pair well with these tuna cakes?

Try sweet chili sauce or a tangy soy sauce for an added kick.

Can I bake these tuna cakes instead of frying?

Yes, bake at 400°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

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Crispy Asian-style Tuna Cakes with Spicy Mayo


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  • Author: Jennifer
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

Description

Crispy Asian-style tuna cakes are a delightful fusion of textures and flavors, featuring a crunchy exterior that encases tender tuna mixed with fresh green onions and aromatic spices. Paired with a zesty spicy mayo, these cakes are perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying as a quick weeknight meal. Easy to prepare and versatile enough for any occasion, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 can (5 oz) high-quality canned tuna, drained
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tbsp mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • ½ tsp ginger powder
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • Hot sauce (optional)
  • For the Spicy Mayo:
  • ¼ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp sriracha sauce (adjust for spice preference)
  • 1 tbsp lime juice

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine drained tuna, panko breadcrumbs, and chopped green onions.
  2. Add egg, mayonnaise, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger powder, garlic powder, and hot sauce (if using). Mix until well combined.
  3. Form equal-sized patties using your hands or an ice cream scoop and place them on parchment paper.
  4. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat with a splash of oil. Once hot, add the patties without overcrowding.
  5. Fry until golden brown on each side (about 3-4 minutes).
  6. Meanwhile, prepare the spicy mayo by mixing mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, and lime juice in a separate bowl.
  7. Serve the crispy cakes hot with spicy mayo drizzled on top.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer/Main
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cake pop (45g)
  • Calories: 139
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Sodium: 352mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 11g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

 

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