Ingredients
Tuna Cake Mixture
- 18 oz. canned tuna (undrained weight 24 oz., drained of liquid)
- 1 medium jalapeño, diced (half the seeds included)
- 1/3 cup green onions, finely chopped
- 1/3 cup cilantro, finely chopped
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Cooking
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Prepare Tuna Mixture: Drain the canned tuna and break it into chunks using a fork. In a mixing bowl, combine the tuna with the diced jalapeño (including half the seeds for moderate heat), finely chopped green onions, cilantro, egg, Greek yogurt, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, ground cumin, and season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Form Patties and Chill: Using your hands, shape the tuna mixture into about six even-sized patties. Place the patties on a platter and refrigerate them for approximately 30 minutes to help them firm up and hold together during cooking.
- Pan-Fry the Tuna Cakes: Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil to coat the surface. Carefully sauté about three patties at a time, flipping them halfway through to ensure both sides are golden brown and crispy. Be gentle when turning to prevent the patties from breaking apart, as they are somewhat fragile.
- Serve: Once cooked, serve the spicy tuna cakes immediately. Optionally, pair them with a spoonful of Chipotle Ranch Dressing for added flavor and creamy spice.
Notes
- For a milder flavor, remove all jalapeño seeds before dicing.
- Greek yogurt helps keep the patties moist and adds a slight tang.
- If patties are too fragile, chill longer or add a little more breadcrumbs to bind.
- Can be served as an appetizer or light main course with a side salad or dipping sauce.
- Adjust the heat by adding more or fewer jalapeño seeds to taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat