Dive into the vibrant flavors of Asia with our irresistible Asian Tuna Cakes recipe. These delectable patties are a delightful fusion of tender tuna, aromatic spices, and a creamy, spicy mayo that will transport your taste buds on a culinary adventure. Whether you’re looking for a quick and satisfying meal or a tantalizing appetizer, these Asian Tuna Cakes are sure to impress.
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Mouthwatering Asian Tuna Cakes
The key to Asian Tuna Cakes lies in the carefully selected ingredients that come together to create a symphony of flavors. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need:
- 2 (142 g) cans flaked white tuna, drained
- 2 green onions, finely chopped (whites and greens separated)
- 1 egg
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp arrowroot powder (or regular flour)
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ cup gluten-free crumbs or panko crumbs
- Avocado oil, for frying
- Sesame oil, for frying
Crafting the Perfect Asian Tuna Cakes
Now that we have all the necessary ingredients, let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions for creating these mouthwatering Asian Tuna Cakes:
Prepare the Tuna Mixture
In a medium bowl, combine the drained tuna, egg, soy sauce, arrowroot powder (or flour), minced garlic, and the whites of the green onions. Season with salt and pepper, and mix until well combined.
Form the Cakes
Shape the tuna mixture into small patties, about 2–3 inches in diameter. Coat each patty lightly with gluten-free crumbs or panko crumbs.
Heat the Oil
In a large skillet, heat a mix of avocado oil and sesame oil over medium heat.
Fry the Patties
Carefully place the tuna cakes in the hot oil and fry them for 3–4 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and heated through.
Prepare the Spicy Mayo
In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise with the green parts of the chopped green onions. Add extra seasoning or a dash of sriracha if you’d like to kick up the spice level.
Serve and Enjoy
Drizzle or dip the crispy Asian Tuna Cakes in the vibrant spicy mayo, and savor the harmonious blend of flavors.
Tips for Perfecting Your Asian Tuna Cakes
To ensure your Asian Tuna Cakes turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Texture Tip: Gently mix the tuna mixture to avoid overworking the ingredients, which can lead to dense or tough cakes.
- Flavor Enhancement: Consider adding a touch of sesame oil, grated ginger, or a pinch of red pepper flakes to amplify the Asian-inspired flavors.
- Frying Technique: Maintain the oil temperature between 350°F and 375°F for optimal crispiness and even cooking.
Nutritional Information and Health Benefits
These Asian Tuna Cakes not only delight the taste buds but also provide a nutritious boost. Each serving (two cakes) contains approximately 300 calories, with a macronutrient breakdown of 18g of protein, 25g of carbohydrates, and 15g of fat. The tuna is an excellent source of lean protein, while the avocado oil and spices offer a variety of beneficial vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
For those following a gluten-free diet, this recipe can be easily adapted by using gluten-free breadcrumbs or panko instead of the regular variety.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
While the classic Asian Tuna Cakes with spicy mayo are a true delight, you can also explore a variety of options to suit your preferences:
- Dietary Variations: Substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or vegan mayonnaise for a dairy-free option. You can also experiment with different types of breadcrumbs or even oats for a heartier texture.
- Serving Ideas: Serve the Asian Tuna Cakes as a main dish, accompanied by a fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or a bed of fluffy rice. They also make a fantastic appetizer, perfect for sharing with friends and family.
- Meal Prep: The tuna cakes can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making them an excellent choice for quick and easy meals throughout the week.

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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned tuna or fresh tuna for these cakes?
Either canned tuna or fresh tuna can be used for Asian Tuna Cakes. Canned tuna is a convenient and budget-friendly option, while fresh tuna will provide a slightly more premium texture and flavor.
How spicy is the mayo, and can I adjust it?
The level of spice in the mayo can be adjusted to your personal preference. Start with a small amount of sriracha or other hot sauce and taste as you go. You can add more to increase the heat or omit it entirely if you prefer a milder flavor.
Should the tuna cakes be baked or pan-fried?
For the best texture and flavor, we recommend pan-frying the Asian Tuna Cakes in a combination of avocado and sesame oil. This method helps create a delightful crispy exterior while keeping the interior moist and flavorful. Baking is an option, but the cakes may not achieve the same level of crispiness.
Can I make the tuna cakes ahead of time and reheat them later?
Absolutely! The Asian Tuna Cakes can be prepared in advance and refrigerated for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat them in a skillet or oven until heated through and the exterior is crisp again.
Indulge in the Flavors of Asia with These Sensational Tuna Cakes
Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure with these mouthwatering Asian Tuna Cakes. The perfect balance of tender tuna, aromatic spices, and the creamy, spicy mayo make this dish a true delight for your taste buds. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a quick and healthy meal, these cakes are sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients and let’s dive into the flavors of Asia together!
Looking for more tasty ideas? Visit Elena’s Fast & Flavorful Recipes on Pinterest for a treasure trove of easy meals, comforting bakes, and fun kitchen inspiration!
PrintSavor the Flavor: Easy Asian Tuna Cakes with Spicy Mayo Recipe
Dive into the vibrant flavors of Asia with our irresistible Asian Tuna Cakes recipe. These delectable patties are a delightful fusion of tender tuna, aromatic spices, and a creamy, spicy mayo that will transport your taste buds on a culinary adventure.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients
- 2 cans (10 ounce each) flaked white tuna, drained
- 2 green onions, finely chopped (whites and greens separated)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 tablespoon arrowroot powder (or regular flour)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup gluten-free crumbs or panko crumbs
- Avocado oil, for frying
- Sesame oil, for frying
Instructions
1. In a medium bowl, combine the drained tuna, egg, soy sauce, arrowroot powder (or flour), minced garlic, and the whites of the green onions. Season with salt and pepper, and mix until well combined.
2. Shape the tuna mixture into small patties, about 2–3 inches in diameter. Coat each patty lightly with gluten-free crumbs or panko crumbs.
3. In a large skillet, heat a mix of avocado oil and sesame oil over medium heat.
4. Carefully place the tuna cakes in the hot oil and fry them for 3–4 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and heated through.
5. In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise with the green parts of the chopped green onions. Add extra seasoning or a dash of sriracha if you’d like to kick up the spice level.
6. Drizzle or dip the crispy Asian Tuna Cakes in the vibrant spicy mayo, and savor the harmonious blend of flavors.
Notes
To ensure your Asian Tuna Cakes turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
Gently mix the tuna mixture to avoid overworking the ingredients, which can lead to dense or tough cakes.
Consider adding a touch of sesame oil, grated ginger, or a pinch of red pepper flakes to amplify the Asian-inspired flavors.
Maintain the oil temperature between 350°F and 375°F for optimal crispiness and even cooking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 cakes
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: tuna cakes, Asian recipes, healthy appetizers