Tuna Patties Recipe: Quick and Easy for Family Meals
DINNER

Tuna Patties Recipe: Quick and Easy for Family Meals

Introduction: Tuna Patties – A Delightful Twist on a Family Classic

Tuna patties are a testament to the magic simple ingredients can create in the kitchen. Inspired by a delectable recipe from Elise Bauer at Simply Recipes, this beloved dish combines the humble yet flavorful canned tuna with a touch of mustard and the zest of lemon, bringing a world of taste to your family table. Easy to prepare and budget-friendly, tuna patties are more than just a meal; they’re a journey back to cherished family moments and a celebration of cozy, home-cooked goodness. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting, this tuna patties recipe, adapted with our twist, promises to add a dash of delight to your culinary repertoire, proving that great taste doesn’t have to be complicated.

Essential Ingredients for Tuna Patties: A Pantry Staple

Before we start cooking, let’s ensure we have all the ingredients ready. This recipe is simple and uses items you already have in your pantry. Below is a table of everything you need to make delicious tuna patties. These quantities yield four scrumptious patties, perfect for a family meal or a satisfying solo dinner.

IngredientQuantity
Canned Tuna 2 cans
Mustard1 tbsp
Lemon Juice2 tsp
Egg1 large
Breadcrumbs½ cup
Salt & PepperTo taste

And there you have it – all the essential ingredients for making mouth-watering tuna patties. With these items, you can start mixing and shaping your delicious patties. Let’s get cooking and turn these simple ingredients into a delightful meal!

Choosing the Best Canned Tuna for Your Patties

The type of canned tuna you choose can make a difference in your patties. There are mainly two types: light tuna and white tuna. Light tuna, like skipjack or yellowfin, has a more robust flavor and a darker color. White tuna, usually albacore, is milder and lighter in color. Whether you pick tuna packed in oil or water is up to you. Oil-packed tuna is a bit richer, while water-packed is leaner. If you’re mindful of sustainability, look for ethical fishing brands. Choosing brands that practice ethical fishing means you’re creating a meal that’s not only delicious but also environmentally responsible.

Preparing Your Tuna Patty Mixture

  • Drain the Tuna: Start by thoroughly draining your canned tuna. Draining the tuna prevents the patties from becoming too wet.
  • Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, mix the drained tuna with a beaten egg, breadcrumbs (or torn white bread), some mustard, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
  • Add Extras: Add chopped onions or herbs for extra flavor.
  • Mix Gently: Stir everything together gently until well combined. The mixture should be moist but not overly wet. Adjust with more mustard or lemon juice if it seems too dry.

Shaping and Cooking Your Tuna Patties

  • Shape the Patties: Take a small amount of the tuna mixture and form it into a round, flat shape. If the mixture sticks to your hands, wet them slightly for easier shaping.
  • Heat the Oil: Heat some oil over medium heat in a frying pan.
  • Cook the Patties: Place the patties in the pan. Cook them for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side. They should turn golden brown and crispy. Be patient and avoid flipping them too soon to prevent breaking.
  • Drain Excess Oil: Transfer the patties to a paper towel-lined plate once cooked. This helps to drain any excess oil.
Tuna Patties Recipe: Quick and Easy for Family Meals 1
Photo: Ciara Kehoe via SimpleRecipes.com

Serving Suggestions for Tuna Patties

Once you cook the tuna patties, you can serve them in various ways. The patties are great with a simple salad or some steamed vegetables. For a heartier meal, try them with rice or mashed potatoes. Lemon wedges are a must – their juice adds a fresh burst of flavor. If you like sauces, tartar, or remoulade sauce, the tuna patties pair wonderfully with these patties. You can even place them in a bun and enjoy them as a tuna burger. The options are endless, so feel free to get creative and cater to your family’s tastes.

Customizing Your Tuna Patties

Making tuna patties your own is part of the fun. If you’re gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or even ground oats. Want to add more veggies? Try mixing in diced bell peppers or celery. For a different flavor, experiment with various herbs and spices. Each addition changes the taste, giving you a new experience every time. 

Elevating Your Dish: Gourmet Serving Ideas

Transform your tuna patties into a gourmet experience with these elegant serving ideas. Arrange the patties over a bed of quinoa or couscous for a sophisticated twist. Drizzle them with a homemade aioli or a delicate saffron sauce for added luxury. Garnish with capers or finely chopped chives to enhance the visual appeal and flavor. These refined serving suggestions are perfect for impressing guests or treating your family to a special meal.

Personalizing Your Tuna Patties Recipe: Creative Twists

Encourage your family’s creativity in the kitchen by adding unique twists to your tuna patties recipe. Experiment with exotic spices like turmeric or za’atar for a global flavor. Incorporate unexpected ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes or olives for a Mediterranean touch. Even consider mixing in finely chopped nuts for added texture. Inviting each family member to contribute a creative ingredient turns cooking into an exciting and collaborative adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tuna Patties

Q: Can I make tuna patties gluten-free?

A: Absolutely! For a gluten-free version, replace regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground oats.

Q: What can I use instead of mustard in the recipe?

A: If you’re not a fan of mustard, you can use mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a creamy texture and a mild flavor.

Q: How can I store leftover tuna patties?

A: Leftover tuna patties can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a pan or the oven for best results.

Q: Can I freeze tuna patties?

A: Yes, you can freeze tuna patties. Individually wrap them in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag or container. You can freeze tuna patties for up to two months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Q: Are there any vegetarian alternatives to tuna in this recipe?

A: For a vegetarian version, you can substitute mashed chickpeas for tuna. They provide a similar texture and are a great protein source.

Q: What are some kid-friendly variations of this recipe?

A: Kids often enjoy milder flavors. Add cheese to the mixture, or serve the patties with ketchup or mild salsa. Making mini patties can also be more appealing to children.

Q: How do I know when the patties are cooked perfectly?

A: The patties are done when golden brown on both sides and heated through. This usually takes about 3 to 4 minutes per side on medium heat.

Conclusion: Savoring Your Culinary Creation

As you savor the delicious tuna patties you’ve crafted, remember that cooking is not just about feeding the body but also about nourishing the soul. Whether served in a sophisticated style or with a personal twist, these patties are more than just a meal; they’re a testament to the joy of cooking and the warmth of family gatherings. We hope this recipe brings as much delight to your table as ours.

Don’t hesitate to explore Elise’s original tuna patties recipe on Simply Recipes for more inspiration and an in-depth look into versatile and flavorful recipes. Their collection of dishes is a treasure trove for anyone looking to enhance their culinary skills and enjoy wholesome, delicious meals with loved ones.

 

 

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Images via SimplyRecipes.com

 


Editorial Update: We strive to keep our content accurate and up-to-date. As part of our ongoing efforts, this article has been moved from Recipe to FOOD & RECIPES  on 9/10/2023.

This article was first published on February 20, 2017, and updated on November 12, 2023. We’ve fixed a broken link and enriched the content to improve your reading.

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