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Bold Asian-Style Tuna Cakes with Spicy Mayo Recipe

Bold Asian-Style Tuna Cakes with Spicy Mayo Recipe

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5.2 from 5 reviews

These Asian-Style Tuna Cakes with Spicy Mayo offer a bold and flavorful twist on traditional seafood dishes. The combination of tender tuna cakes paired with a zesty and creamy spicy mayo creates a mouthwatering experience that is sure to impress your taste buds.

Ingredients

For the Tuna Cakes

  • 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained well
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 1/4 cup chopped carrot
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onion
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 2 pinches ground black pepper
  • 2 eggs
  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 tbsp neutral cooking oil (vegetable or avocado oil)

For the Spicy Mayo

  • 3 tbsp mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp gochujang (Korean red chili paste)
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • Optional: 1/2 tsp sugar for balance

Instructions

  1. Prepare the mix In a large bowl, combine the drained tuna, chopped onion, carrot, green onion, salt, and pepper. Add in the eggs and flour. Mix everything until well combined and evenly coated.
  2. Form the cakes Using clean hands or a spoon, shape the mixture into small patties, about 2–3 inches in diameter. You should get around 8 pieces.
  3. Cook the patties Heat oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the tuna cakes in a single layer without overcrowding. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crisp.
  4. Make the spicy mayo While the cakes cook, mix the mayonnaise, gochujang, lemon juice, and sugar in a small bowl. Stir until smooth and creamy.
  5. Serve hot Transfer the cooked cakes to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve warm, drizzled or dipped in spicy mayo.

Notes

  • Drain tuna thoroughly: Excess liquid makes the mixture soggy and hard to bind.
  • Use fresh veggies: Carrots and green onions add crunch and color.
  • Keep them small: Smaller patties are easier to flip and cook evenly.
  • Don’t overwork the mix: Gentle mixing helps maintain a tender texture.
  • Spicy mayo hack: Add a pinch of garlic powder for an extra savory note.

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