Spicy Tuna Cakes

Spicy Tuna Cakes are a flavorful fusion of comfort and creativity, bringing an impressive dish to your table while remaining incredibly easy to prepare. This delightful recipe combines tender, flaky tuna and creamy sweet potatoes, all spiced up with jalapeño and red pepper flakes. Imagine biting into a crispy, golden patty that gives way to a luscious interior bursting with layered flavors, aromas, and textures. Worth making for a family dinner, quick lunch, or meal prep, this dish has a nostalgic touch that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Follow along for a step-by-step guide to craft these delicious Spicy Tuna Cakes that you won’t soon forget!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

What truly makes Spicy Tuna Cakes an exceptional choice for your weeknight meal is the ease of preparation and minimal ingredients required. In just a few simple steps, you can whip up a dish that’s not only satisfying but also nutritious, incorporating protein-rich tuna and antioxidant-packed sweet potatoes. These cakes are a total crowd-pleaser, perfect for impressing guests or fueling active kids after a long day. Versatile and adaptable, they can easily be served as appetizers, snacks, or even a main dish.

Ingredients

3 tablespoons melted ghee, divided: The richness of ghee provides a smooth, caramelized flavor when cooking the cakes.
10 ounces canned albacore tuna in water, drained: Tender and flaky, the tuna serves as the heart of this dish.
3 scallions, thinly sliced: These aromatic greens add a mild sweetness and crunch.
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, minced: Bright and refreshing, cilantro gives a hint of herbaceousness.
1⅓ cups mashed baked sweet potato: Creamy and naturally sweet, sweet potato balances the spice in the cakes.
Zest from ½ lemon: This adds a refreshing citrus brightness.
1 tablespoon jalapeño, minced: A little heat to give these cakes a spicy kick.
2 large eggs: These bind the ingredients together, creating a cohesive batter.
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes: Extra warmth that elevates the level of spice.
Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste: These essential seasonings enhance and round out the flavor.
3 lemons, cut into wedges (optional): Serve alongside for a zesty squeeze that brings everything together.

Step-by-Step Directions

Bake the Sweet Potatoes: Preheat the oven to 400°F (about 204°C). Place whole sweet potatoes on a baking sheet, and bake for 45-50 minutes until they become fork-tender. Allow them to cool, then peel and mash until you have 1⅓ cups set aside.
Drain Tuna: Using a fine-mesh strainer, drain the canned tuna thoroughly, pressing out any excess moisture to ensure the mixture won’t be too wet.
Prep Vegetables: Thinly slice the scallions, mince the fresh cilantro, and finely chop the jalapeño, setting aside each ingredient for easy incorporation.
Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potato, beaten eggs, and 1 tablespoon of melted ghee. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
Incorporate Tuna and Seasonings: Gently fold in the drained tuna, scallions, cilantro, jalapeño, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes. Season the mixture with kosher salt and black pepper to taste. Mix gently, being careful not to overmix.
Form Patties: Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions and form them into patties, each about 3 inches wide. To help them hold their shape, chill them in the fridge for approximately 10 minutes.
Cook Patties: Heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of ghee in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chilled patties. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side or until the exterior is golden brown and crisp.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve the warm Spicy Tuna Cakes alongside fresh lemon wedges for an added burst of flavor. Enjoy the perfect balance of spice and creaminess!

Tips & Tricks

Enhance Your Spice: If you’re a fan of heat, feel free to add more jalapeño or red pepper flakes.
Substitute Sweet Potatoes: You can swap sweet potatoes for regular potatoes if you prefer a different flavor profile or texture.
Add Cheese: Consider mixing in some crumbled feta or cheddar for a creamy touch inside the patties.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Spicy Tuna Cakes are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. They’re fantastic alongside a refreshing salad, in a sandwich or lettuce wrap for a lighter option, or as part of a cozy dinner plate with roasted vegetables. Try pairing them with a tangy yogurt dressing or a spicy avocado dip for a delightful contrast. These cakes can shine at casual family dinners or even elevate a small gathering with friends.

Nutritional Information

Each Spicy Tuna Cake contains roughly 200 calories, packed with essential nutrients. They are high in protein, thanks to the tuna and eggs, and filled with vitamins A and C from the sweet potatoes. This dish strikes a balanced profile, making it an excellent option for those seeking a nutritious meal that satisfies hunger without sacrificing flavor.

Storing Tips & Variations

Leftover Spicy Tuna Cakes can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the uncooked patties for later use—simply place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer bag. To reheat, simply cook from frozen in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. Variations can include swapping out different herbs, adding other vegetables, or using chicken or crab instead of tuna for a different take on the recipe.

Conclusion

The time is now to try your hand at crafting these delicious Spicy Tuna Cakes! With their crispy, golden exterior and spicy, flavorful filling, they promise to become a favorite in your home. Whether you’re preparing them for family dinners or weekend gatherings, this recipe is sure to impress. Once you’ve tried them, share your experiences and tips with friends and fellow cooking enthusiasts—everyone deserves to enjoy this delightful dish!

FAQs

Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?
Yes! Freshly cooked tuna can be used in place of canned tuna. Just ensure it is cooked through and flaked.
What can I use instead of ghee?
If you don’t have ghee, butter or a neutral oil like coconut or vegetable oil works well too.
How do I know when the cakes are cooked through?
The exterior should be golden and crisp, while a quick check with a fork or thermometer will show that they are hot inside.
Can I make these cakes ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep them in advance and store them in the refrigerator for 1-2 days before cooking.
What dips pair well with Spicy Tuna Cakes?
Pair these cakes with yogurt-based dips, spicy salsas, or simply serve them with fresh lemon wedges for your guests to squeeze on top!