Asian Style Tuna Cakes: 25 Min Savory Treat

Name: Asian Style Tuna Cakes: 25 Min Savory Treat
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 2 cans Wild Flaked White Tuna, drained; 3 Green Onions, chopped (white and green parts separated); 1 Egg (or flax egg for vegan); 2 tablespoons Coconut Aminos (or Organic Soy Sauce); 1 cup Arrowroot Powder (or wheat flour); 1/2 cup Avocado Mayonnaise; 2 cloves Garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Sea Salt; 1 teaspoon Black Pepper; 1 cup Gluten-Free Bread Crumbs (or panko crumbs); 2 tablespoons Avocado Oil, for frying; 1 tablespoon Sesame Oil, for frying; 1 tablespoon Black Sesame Seeds, for garnish; For the Spicy Mayo:; 1/2 cup Avocado Mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon Lime Juice; 1 tablespoon Sriracha; 1 pinch Salt; 1 pinch Black Pepper

by Fatima Garcia

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22 de January de 2026

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Asian Style Tuna Cakes have become my go-to for a quick, flavorful meal that genuinely satisfies. I remember the first time I tried making them; I was looking for a way to use up canned tuna that wasn’t just tuna salad, and I stumbled upon this gem. The aroma of garlic and sesame oil frying filled my kitchen, promising something special. These aren’t just any tuna patties; they have a unique Asian twist that makes them incredibly savory. If you’re looking for easy Asian tuna cakes that deliver on taste and texture, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love These Asian Style Tuna Cakes

Get ready to fall in love with these delightful tuna cakes! You’ll be amazed at how quickly they come together, making them perfect for busy weeknights.

These Asian tuna patties offer an incredible savory flavor with a satisfying crunch.
They’re incredibly quick to prepare, with a total time of just 25 minutes from start to finish.
Packed with protein, these cakes are a healthy choice for a light meal or snack.
They are wonderfully budget-friendly, using pantry staples like canned tuna and common seasonings.
Kids and adults alike adore these flavorful patties, making them a great family-friendly option.
You can customize the spice level to create your perfect version of these delicious Asian tuna patties.
They are versatile and work beautifully as appetizers or a main course.

Ingredients for Your Asian Style Tuna Cakes

Gathering the ingredients for these amazing Asian tuna patties is straightforward, and each one plays a crucial role in creating that signature flavor and texture. You’ll need:

2 cans Wild Flaked White Tuna, drained: Make sure it’s thoroughly drained to avoid soggy cakes.
3 Green Onions, chopped: We’ll use both the white parts for the mix and the green tops for garnish.
1 Egg: This acts as a binder to hold everything together. A flax egg is a great vegan alternative.
2 tablespoons Coconut Aminos: Adds a touch of umami and savory depth, similar to soy sauce but lighter.
1 cup Arrowroot Powder: This gluten-free thickener helps create a lovely texture in our Asian tuna patties recipe.
1/2 cup Avocado Mayonnaise: For richness and a creamy base within the cakes.
2 cloves Garlic, minced: Essential for that aromatic punch.
1 teaspoon Sea Salt: To enhance all the flavors.
1 teaspoon Black Pepper: For a little kick.
1 cup Gluten-Free Bread Crumbs: For that perfect crispy coating.
2 tablespoons Avocado Oil, for frying: A high-heat oil that gives a great sear.
1 tablespoon Sesame Oil, for frying: Adds a wonderful nutty aroma.
1 tablespoon Black Sesame Seeds, for garnish: For a beautiful visual and subtle crunch.
For the Spicy Mayo:
1/2 cup Avocado Mayonnaise
1 tablespoon Lime Juice: For a bright, zesty contrast.
1 tablespoon Sriracha: To bring the heat!
1 pinch Salt
1 pinch Black Pepper

How to Make Asian Style Tuna Cakes

Follow these simple steps to whip up some incredibly delicious and easy Asian tuna cakes. They’re so quick, you’ll be enjoying them in no time!

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients. First things first, let’s get everything ready. Wash and finely chop your green onions, making sure to separate the white parts from the green tops.
Step 2: Mix the Spicy Mayo. In a small bowl, whisk together the 1/2 cup avocado mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon lime juice, 1 tablespoon sriracha, and a pinch each of salt and pepper until smooth. This zesty sauce is key to our amazing flavor. Set it aside.
Step 3: Combine the Tuna Mixture. Grab a large mixing bowl. Add the drained tuna, 1 egg, the chopped white parts of the green onions, 2 tablespoons coconut aminos, 1 cup arrowroot powder, 1/2 cup avocado mayonnaise, 2 cloves minced garlic, 1 teaspoon sea salt, and 1 teaspoon black pepper. Gently mix everything together with your hands or a spoon until it’s just combined. We don’t want to overmix!
Step 4: Form the Cakes. Now, take about a quarter of the tuna mixture and shape it into a 2-inch round cake. Repeat this with the rest of the mixture. These are your foundations for perfect easy Asian tuna cakes.
Step 5: Coat the Cakes. Place the 1 cup gluten-free bread crumbs on a plate. Carefully press each tuna cake into the bread crumbs, ensuring both sides are nicely coated for that delightful crispiness.
Step 6: Heat Your Pan. In a nonstick skillet, combine the 2 tablespoons avocado oil and 1 tablespoon sesame oil. Heat this over medium heat until it’s shimmering and ready for frying. This oil blend gives our quick Asian tuna cakes that authentic flavor.
Step 7: Fry to Golden Perfection. Gently place the coated tuna cakes into the hot oil. Fry them for about 2 minutes per side. You’re looking for a beautiful golden brown color and a satisfyingly crispy texture.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy. Arrange the hot, crispy tuna cakes on a plate. Drizzle generously with your prepared spicy mayo, and sprinkle the reserved green onion tops and 1 tablespoon black sesame seeds over the top for a lovely finish.

Pro Tips for the Best Asian Style Tuna Cakes

Want to elevate your tuna cakes from good to absolutely amazing? I’ve picked up a few tricks that make all the difference!

Always ensure your tuna is very well-drained; excess moisture is the enemy of crispiness.
Don’t overmix the tuna mixture after adding the binder and arrowroot powder; gentle handling keeps them tender.
Get your oil nice and hot before frying. This is crucial for achieving that perfect golden-brown crust.
Adjust the sriracha in the spicy mayo to your personal heat preference – more for a kick, less for milder palates.

What’s the secret to perfect Asian Style Tuna Cakes?

The real secret to perfect Asian tuna patties lies in two main things: ensuring the tuna is extremely well-drained to prevent sogginess, and not overworking the mixture. Gentle mixing keeps the cakes tender inside.

Can I make Asian Style Tuna Cakes ahead of time?

Yes, you can definitely prepare the mixture and form the cakes ahead of time. Store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before frying. Just be sure to coat them in breadcrumbs right before cooking. For more make-ahead meal ideas, check out these make-ahead recipes.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Asian Style Tuna Cakes?

The most common mistakes are soggy cakes or dry, tough ones. To avoid sogginess, drain your tuna thoroughly. To prevent them from being tough, don’t overmix the ingredients, and handle the formed patties gently.

Best Ways to Serve Asian Style Tuna Cakes

These versatile Asian inspired tuna patties are fantastic served in so many ways! For a crowd-pleasing appetizer, arrange them on a platter with a small bowl of the spicy mayo for dipping. They’re also perfect as a light, high-protein snack when you need a satisfying bite. For a more substantial meal, serve two cakes alongside a crisp Asian-inspired slaw or a simple mixed green salad with a ginger-sesame dressing. They really shine as a quick dinner option, offering a healthy and flavor-packed alternative to traditional meals. You might also enjoy these other appetizer ideas.

Nutrition Facts for Asian Style Tuna Cakes

These delicious Asian tuna patties are a fantastic source of protein and flavor! Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per serving:

Calories: 200 kcal
Fat: 9 g
Saturated Fat: 1 g
Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 12 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sugar: 1 g
Sodium: 350 mg
Protein: 18 g

Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used. For more information on healthy eating, consider consulting resources like the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

How to Store and Reheat Homemade Asian Tuna Cakes

Even though these Asian tuna patties are best enjoyed fresh off the pan, they store beautifully! Once cooled completely, place any leftover Asian Style Tuna Cakes in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, making them perfect for meal prep.

If you want to keep them even longer, you can freeze them. Wrap each cake tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, you can gently pan-fry them over medium heat until warmed through and crispy again, or pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-8 minutes. Either method brings back that delicious crispiness to your tasty Asian tuna patties.

Asian Style Tuna Cakes: 25 Min Savory Treat - Asian Style Tuna Cakes - additional detail

Frequently Asked Questions About Asian Style Tuna Cakes

What are Asian Style Tuna Cakes?

Asian Style Tuna Cakes are a delicious twist on traditional tuna patties. They incorporate classic Asian flavors like soy sauce (or coconut aminos), garlic, and green onions, often pan-fried to a delightful crispness. They’re a fantastic way to enjoy canned tuna in a new, exciting way.

Why make Asian Style Tuna Cakes?

You should make these Asian tuna patties because they’re incredibly quick, easy, and packed with savory flavor. They’re a healthy alternative to heavier appetizers and offer a satisfying protein boost. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to use up pantry staples like canned tuna for a satisfying snack or light meal. For more quick meal ideas, see these quick recipes.

Can I use different types of tuna?

Absolutely! While wild flaked white tuna is great for its mild flavor and texture, you can also use chunk light tuna. Just be sure to drain it very well, as oil-packed tuna can sometimes make the cakes a bit too moist, potentially affecting their crispiness.

What if I don’t have arrowroot powder?

No worries if you don’t have arrowroot powder! You can easily substitute it with an equal amount of all-purpose flour or panko bread crumbs. Both will help bind the cakes and contribute to a lovely texture, making your Asian tuna patties just as delicious. You can find more baking substitutions here.

Variations of Asian Style Tuna Cakes You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, don’t be afraid to get creative with these Asian Style Tuna Cakes! There are so many ways to switch things up to suit your taste and dietary needs.

Gluten-Free Delight: The recipe as written is already fantastic for gluten-free eaters thanks to the arrowroot powder and gluten-free bread crumbs. You can also try using crushed gluten-free crackers for the coating for a slightly different texture.
Baked Instead of Fried: If you prefer a less oily preparation, you can bake these cakes! Arrange the breadcrumb-coated patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through. They won’t be quite as crispy, but still delicious.
Spice It Up! For those who love a little extra heat, you can easily transform these into Spicy Asian Tuna Cakes. Add a bit more sriracha to the main mixture, or toss in some finely chopped jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes. You can also experiment with different chili pastes for varied flavor profiles in your Asian tuna patties.
Add Veggies: Boost the nutritional profile and flavor by mixing in finely grated carrots, zucchini (squeezed dry), or even some chopped water chestnuts for extra crunch. These additions make for even more exciting Asian inspired tuna patties.

About the Author

Fatima Garcia