Tuna Patties Recipe

Tuna: Canned tuna is the main protein source for these patties. Make sure to drain it well before using.

Breadcrumbs: These help bind the patties together and give them a nice texture.

Egg: Acts as a binder to hold the patties together.

Onion: Adds a bit of crunch and flavor to the patties.

Mayonnaise: Adds moisture and a creamy texture to the patties.

Lemon juice: Provides a fresh, tangy flavor that brightens up the patties.

Garlic powder: Adds a subtle garlic flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the patties.

Black pepper: Adds a bit of heat and depth to the flavor.

Olive oil: Used for frying the patties to a golden brown.

When forming the patties, make sure to press them firmly to ensure they hold together during cooking. If the mixture feels too dry, add a little more mayonnaise or a splash of lemon juice. Conversely, if it's too wet, incorporate a bit more breadcrumbs. This balance will help achieve the perfect texture and prevent the patties from falling apart in the frying pan.

• tuna - Substitute with salmon: Salmon provides a similar texture and flavor profile, making it an excellent alternative to tuna in patties.

• breadcrumbs - Substitute with crushed crackers: Crushed crackers can provide the same binding and texture as breadcrumbs.

• egg - Substitute with flaxseed meal and water: Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water to replace one egg, which works well as a binder.

• onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder flavor and can be used in the same quantity as onions.

• mayonnaise - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt provides a similar creamy texture and tanginess, making it a healthier alternative.

• lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice offers a similar acidity and citrus flavor, making it a good substitute for lemon juice.

• garlic powder - Substitute with fresh garlic: Use 1 clove of minced fresh garlic for every ¼ teaspoon of garlic powder to achieve a more robust flavor.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a similar level of saltiness along with a depth of umami flavor.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar heat and flavor but with a slightly different aroma.

• olive oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a neutral flavor and a high smoke point, making it suitable for frying.

• Allow the tuna patties to cool completely after cooking. This prevents condensation and sogginess when stored.
• Place the cooled tuna patties in an airtight container. If stacking, separate each layer with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
• Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the tuna patties fresh and ready to reheat.
• For freezing, individually wrap each tuna patty in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps maintain their shape and prevents freezer burn.
• Place the wrapped tuna patties in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. This ensures the tuna patties retain their flavor and texture.
• To reheat, thaw the tuna patties in the refrigerator overnight. This ensures even reheating.
• Heat a small amount of olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. This helps restore the crispy exterior.
• Cook the thawed tuna patties for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until heated through. This brings back their delicious golden brown finish.
• Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. This method is ideal for reheating multiple tuna patties at once.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the tuna patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them with aluminum foil to prevent drying out. Bake for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. This method ensures even reheating and maintains the crispiness of the patties.

• Stovetop Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil. Place the tuna patties in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are heated through and have a nice, crispy exterior. This method is quick and keeps the patties moist.

• Microwave Method: Place the tuna patties on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are heating evenly. This method is the fastest but may result in a slightly softer texture.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the tuna patties in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are crispy and heated through. This method is great for retaining the original texture and crispiness.

• Toaster Oven Method: Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the tuna patties on the toaster oven tray. Heat for about 10 minutes, or until they are warmed through and slightly crispy. This method is convenient and effective for small batches.

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl used to combine all the ingredients together.

• Fork: Useful for flaking the tuna and mixing the ingredients thoroughly.

• Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the breadcrumbs and mayonnaise.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

• Knife: Needed for finely chopping the onion.

• Cutting board: Provides a surface for chopping the onion.

• Frying pan: Used to cook the patties until they are golden brown.

• Spatula: Helps in flipping the patties while cooking.

• Plate: For placing the cooked patties once they are done.

• Paper towels: To drain excess oil from the cooked patties.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Chop the onion and measure out the breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, and lemon juice beforehand to streamline the process.

Use a food processor: Quickly combine the tuna, breadcrumbs, and other ingredients by pulsing them in a food processor for even mixing.

Preheat the pan: Start heating the olive oil while forming the patties to save time.

Batch cooking: Cook multiple patties at once if your pan is large enough to reduce overall cooking time.