Spicy Tuna Fish Cakes Recipe

Cook Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 large potato, peeled and cubed
• 4 (3 ounce) cans tuna, drained
• cup chopped onion
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon dry bread crumbs, or as needed
• 1 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Salt and ground black pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Directions

1. Place the potato in a small pot and cover with salted water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer until the potato is tender, about 20 minutes. Drain and let the potato steam dry in the pot for 1-2 minutes.
2. Transfer the cooked potato to a large bowl and mash using a potato masher or fork until smooth.
3. Add the drained tuna, chopped onion, egg, Dijon mustard, bread crumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper to the mashed potato. Mix everything together until well combined.
4. Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions and shape them into patties.
5. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the tuna patties and pan-fry for about 3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrition	Amount	% Daily Value*
Calories	237
Total Fat	6g	7%
Saturated Fat	1g	6%
Cholesterol	72mg	24%
Sodium	210mg	9%
Total Carbohydrate	21g	8%
Dietary Fiber	2g	7%
Total Sugars	2g
Protein	25g	50%
Vitamin C	7mg	8%
Calcium	35mg	3%
Iron	2mg	12%
Potassium	528mg	11%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Origin and History

The concept of fish cakes is believed to have originated in the United Kingdom and Ireland, where they were traditionally made from leftover fish and potatoes. The idea was to create a tasty, affordable meal from simple ingredients. Over time, this dish spread to other parts of the world, each adding its own regional twist. In America, tuna fish cakes became popular due to the widespread availability of canned tuna, which made it an inexpensive option for home cooks. The addition of spices, like cayenne and mustard, gives this dish its signature spicy flavor, reflecting the growing trend of incorporating bolder tastes into traditional recipes.

Regional Variations

Spicy tuna fish cakes are a popular dish in many cultures, each adding a unique spin. In the U.S., they are often served as a quick weeknight dinner or as an appetizer at seafood restaurants. In Mediterranean regions, variations might include the use of herbs like oregano or parsley, often accompanied by a side of tzatziki or a fresh tomato salad. Meanwhile, in Southeast Asia, flavors of fish cakes are often heightened with the use of chili, lime, and lemongrass, combining sweet, sour, salty, and spicy elements to make the dish even more flavorful. However, the key difference between all these variations lies in the type of fish used, the level of spice, and whether they are deep-fried or pan-fried.

How It Differs From Similar Dishes

While there are many types of fish cakes around the world, the Spicy Tuna Fish Cakes stand out because they combine the mild flavor of tuna with a blend of bold spices and a potato binder. This is different from other types of fish cakes, such as those made with salmon or cod, where the fish is typically flakier and has a more delicate texture. Additionally, tuna has a more pronounced taste, which pairs well with the added heat from cayenne pepper and the tang from Dijon mustard. In contrast, traditional fish cakes often rely on breadcrumbs for binding, making the tuna-based cakes denser and richer.

Where They Are Typically Served

Spicy tuna fish cakes are commonly found in seafood restaurants and home kitchens across the United States. They are often served as a main dish accompanied by sides such as coleslaw, rice, or a fresh salad. In more formal settings, they may be offered as part of a seafood platter alongside other fish or shellfish dishes. In Asia, these cakes are sometimes included as part of a larger seafood feast or served with dipping sauces like sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, or garlic mayonnaise, highlighting the versatility of the dish. In many cases, they are also popular as an appetizer or snack, especially in bars or casual eateries.

Interesting Facts

• The use of canned tuna in this recipe makes it a budget-friendly option, providing a nutritious and affordable meal that's high in protein.
• Tuna is rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health, making these fish cakes not just delicious, but also nutritious.
• In some parts of the world, spicy tuna fish cakes are made using different varieties of tuna, such as yellowfin or albacore, each offering its own flavor profile.
• Spicy tuna fish cakes have become a trendy food in the form of Tuna Patties on many restaurant menus, reflecting the growing popularity of simple, comfort foods with a twist.

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