Asian Inspired Tuna Cakes Recipe

Elevate your weeknight dinner with these vibrant Asian-inspired tuna cakes! A kid-friendly recipe found in "The Metro St. Louis Guide to Smart Parenting," these flavorful cakes are quick, easy, and surprisingly healthy. The secret? A zesty soy-infused panko crust and a creamy, tangy dipping sauce that takes them to the next level. Perfect as a satisfying main course or a delightful appetizer, these tuna cakes are a delicious twist on a classic.

Prep Time 25 mins
Cook Time 40 mins
Calories 289.1 kcal
Protein 24g
Rating 4.4 (13 Reviews)
Asian Inspired Tuna Cakes

Recipe Actions

Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Asian Inspired Tuna Cakes

  • Tuna In Water
  • Low Sodium Soy Sauce
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • White Onion
  • Panko Breadcrumbs
  • Butter
  • Mayonnaise
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon lemon pepper
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • a few drops Tabasco sauce (to taste)
  • Sesame Oil

How to Make Asian Inspired Tuna Cakes

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a medium bowl, gently combine 2 (5 ounce) cans tuna (drained), 1 large egg, 1.5 tablespoons soy sauce, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion, 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs, and 2 tablespoons melted butter. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
  3. Form the tuna mixture into 4-6 patties, about 1/2 inch thick. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  4. Refrigerate the patties for at least 20 minutes to firm up.
  5. While the patties chill, prepare the dipping sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon lemon pepper, and a few drops of Tabasco sauce (to taste).
  6. Bake the tuna cakes for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
  7. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
  8. Serve immediately with the dipping sauce. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Want to unlock deeper, more complex flavors? Try toasting your whole spices before grinding them, or blooming ground spices in a little warm oil to enhance their aroma. Deglazing your pan with a bit of stock, wine, or even water after browning ingredients can capture those tasty caramelized bits, adding richness to your dish.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

23 g

Sugar

11g

Fat

25g

Carbs

6g