The first bite of Asian-Style Tuna Cakes with Spicy Mayo is like a flavor bomb exploding in your mouth—crispy on the outside, soft and savory on the inside. The aroma wafting from the pan is enough to make even the pickiest eaters perk up and say, “What’s that?” You can almost hear your taste buds clapping in anticipation. zesty lemon pepper chicken sandwich

Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?
- What sides pair well with Asian-Style Tuna Cakes?
- Can I bake these tuna cakes instead of frying?
- 📖 Recipe Card
These tuna cakes are perfect for those busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, they come together faster than you can say “where’s my fork?” Get ready to enjoy a dish that’s not only delightful but also brings back memories of family gatherings where everyone couldn’t help but go back for seconds.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Asian-Style Tuna Cakes are quick to prepare and bursting with flavor
- Their golden crust and tender insides create a feast for the eyes and taste buds alike
- Perfect for any occasion, they can be served as appetizers or a main dish
- The spicy mayo adds an exciting kick, elevating this dish to new heights!
I still remember the first time I made these tuna cakes for my family; everyone was raving about them, and my brother even tried to sneak one out for later!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Canned Tuna: Opt for high-quality tuna packed in water or oil; it makes a world of difference in flavor.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: These Japanese-style breadcrumbs add an irresistible crunch that regular breadcrumbs just can’t match.
- Green Onions: Fresh green onions bring a bright flavor and beautiful color to the cakes.
- Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness while enhancing umami flavors. For more inspiration, check out this Chicken Ramen Recipe recipe.
- Sesame Oil: Just a drizzle gives these cakes a rich, nutty undertone that pairs perfectly with tuna.
- Spices (Ginger, Garlic Powder): These spices amp up the flavor profile and add zing to every bite. herb-infused focaccia muffins.
- Mayonnaise: A creamy base that binds everything together, giving moisture and richness to each cake.
- Chili Sauce: For dipping, use your favorite chili sauce or sriracha to spice things up even more!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Station: Gather all your ingredients and tools—mixing bowls, measuring cups, and a skillet. This way, you’ll avoid frantic searches mid-recipe.
Mix It Up!: In a large mixing bowl, combine canned tuna (drained), panko breadcrumbs, chopped green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger powder, garlic powder, and mayonnaise. Stir well until everything is nicely blended.
Shape Those Cakes!: With clean hands or a spatula, form the mixture into patties about 2 inches wide. This will give you that perfect golden crust when cooking.
Fry to Perfection: Heat a skillet over medium heat with olive oil. Once hot but not smoking (think shimmering), carefully place the patties in the skillet. Sauté until golden brown on each side—about 4-5 minutes per side.
Prepare Your Spicy Mayo!: While your cakes are sizzling away, mix mayonnaise with chili sauce in a small bowl until well combined. Adjust spiciness according to your preference! For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Gochujang Udon Noodles recipe.
Serve & Enjoy!: Place your crispy tuna cakes on a plate alongside your spicy mayo dip. Garnish with extra green onions if you’re feeling fancy—because presentation matters too!
Now you’ve created Asian-Style Tuna Cakes with Spicy Mayo that are sure to impress anyone who gets within sniffing distance of them! Enjoy these tasty bites at lunch or dinner—they’re versatile enough for any meal or gathering! savory breakfast frittata.
You Must Know
- These Asian-Style Tuna Cakes are super easy to whip up and make for a delightful meal
- The balance of flavors and textures is incredible, making them perfect for any occasion
- They also freeze well, so you can enjoy them later, too!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing the tuna mixture first, then form the cakes while heating oil in a pan. This sequence helps save time and ensures even cooking.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap tuna with canned salmon or add fresh herbs for extra flavor. Customize it according to your taste preferences for a unique twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover tuna cakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to maintain crispness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Keep your tuna cakes uniform in size for even cooking
- Let them rest before frying to develop flavors
- Always use a non-stick skillet for easy flipping and reduced sticking issues
Sometimes, my friends can’t believe these tasty treats come from a simple can of tuna! Their surprised faces make all the effort worthwhile.
FAQ
Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?
Absolutely! Just cook it thoroughly and flake it before mixing with other ingredients.
What sides pair well with Asian-Style Tuna Cakes?
Serve them with a refreshing cucumber salad or steamed rice for a complete meal. refreshing crispy quinoa salad.
Can I bake these tuna cakes instead of frying?
Yes, baking at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 minutes works well; just flip halfway through.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Asian-Style Tuna Cakes with Spicy Mayo
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4 (about 8 cakes) 1x
Description
Asian-Style Tuna Cakes with Spicy Mayo are a delightful fusion of crispy and savory flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. These quick and easy tuna cakes are perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends, making them a go-to dish for any occasion. Paired with a zesty spicy mayo, they deliver an impressive flavor explosion with every bite. Enjoy them as appetizers or a main course—these versatile cakes are sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 can (5 oz) high-quality canned tuna, drained
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp ginger powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 3 tbsp mayonnaise
- Chili sauce, for dipping
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine drained tuna, panko breadcrumbs, green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger powder, garlic powder, and mayonnaise. Mix well.
- Shape the mixture into patties about 2 inches wide.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook patties until golden brown on each side (4-5 minutes).
- For the spicy mayo, mix mayonnaise with chili sauce to taste.
- Serve warm with the spicy mayo dip.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 25mg