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Bold Asian-Style Tuna Cakes with Spicy Mayo Recipe

4.8 from 76 reviews

These Bold Asian-Style Tuna Cakes offer a flavorful and crispy twist on traditional tuna patties, combining fresh veggies and a spicy Korean-inspired mayo for a delicious, easy-to-make meal or appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale

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

  • Make sure to drain the tuna thoroughly to prevent soggy patties.
  • The optional sugar can be adjusted or omitted based on your sweetness preference.
  • Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point for best frying results.
  • If you prefer spicier mayo, add extra gochujang or a dash of chili flakes.
  • These tuna cakes can be served as main course or as appetizers with dipping sauce.

Keywords: tuna cakes, Asian tuna patties, spicy mayo, gochujang sauce, easy dinner, seafood patties, Korean flavor, quick meal