Go Back
Delicious Asian Tuna Cakes served with dipping sauce and fresh herbs.

Asian Tuna Cakes

A delightful twist on traditional tuna patties, packed with flavor and a touch of Asian flair, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 patties
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: Asian
Calories: 180

Ingredients
  

Main ingredients
  • 10 oz canned tuna (2 cans, drained very well)
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 pieces green onions (finely chopped)
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1 tsp fresh ginger (minced)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 large egg (lightly beaten)
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying, adding more as needed)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Start by draining the tuna cans thoroughly. Use paper towels or a fine-mesh strainer to remove all the liquid.
  2. Transfer the flaked tuna into a large mixing bowl and break any large chunks apart with a fork.
  3. Add the panko breadcrumbs, chopped green onions, cilantro, soy sauce, sesame oil, minced ginger, minced garlic, and beaten egg into the bowl. Gently fold everything together until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
  4. Shape the mixture into 6-8 equal patties, roughly 1/2-inch thick. If the mixture feels too wet, add an extra tablespoon of panko. If it’s too dry, incorporate a teaspoon of water. Chill the patties for 15-20 minutes to help them maintain their shape when frying.
Cooking
  1. In a large 12-inch skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes until it shimmers and reaches around 350°F.
  2. Carefully place 3-4 patties into the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. If needed, fry in batches and add more oil between each one.
  3. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side without pressing down on them. Flip the patties when the edges turn golden brown, and they easily release from the pan.
  4. Transfer the cooked patties to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Enjoy them immediately while the outer layer is still crispy.

Notes

Store leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. To reheat, place in a hot skillet until crisp. Uncooked patties can be frozen with parchment paper between them for up to 3 months.