Tuna patties are a fantastic option for a quick, nutritious, and high-protein meal. They’re packed with flavor, easy to make, and perfect for any time of the day—whether it’s for lunch, dinner, or even a protein-rich snack. This recipe combines canned tuna with rolled oats, eggs, and fresh herbs to create delicious patties that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Let’s dive into how to make these tasty tuna cakes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• High Protein: Each patty is loaded with protein, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to increase their protein intake.
• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple ingredients, you can have these tuna patties ready in under 30 minutes.
• Versatile: Enjoy them on their own, in a sandwich, or as a topping for salads. They’re versatile enough to be paired with a variety of sides.
• Budget-Friendly: Using canned tuna and pantry staples, this recipe is easy on the wallet while still being nutritious and delicious.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 cans (280g each) of tuna: Choose canned tuna in water or oil, depending on your preference. Make sure to drain it well.
• 1 cup (90g) of rolled oats: These help bind the patties and add a bit of texture. They also increase the fiber content, making the patties more filling.
• 2 eggs: Eggs are used to bind the ingredients together and add moisture.
• 1/2 large onion: Finely chopped, the onion adds a nice sweetness and crunch to the patties.
• 2 garlic cloves: Minced garlic adds a punch of flavor.
• 1/4 bunch of chives: Chives bring a mild onion-like flavor and a pop of color.
• 1/4 bunch of parsley: Fresh parsley adds freshness and a touch of earthiness to the patties.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the patties.
• 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes or black pepper: Adds a bit of heat, which you can adjust according to your preference.
• 2-3 tablespoons olive oil: Used for frying the patties, giving them a golden, crispy exterior.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
   • Start by draining the tuna well and placing it in a large mixing bowl. Use a fork to flake the tuna into small pieces.
   • Finely chop the onion, garlic, chives, and parsley. Add them to the bowl with the tuna.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
   • Add the rolled oats, eggs, salt, and chili flakes (or black pepper) to the tuna mixture.
   • Mix everything together thoroughly until the ingredients are well combined. The mixture should hold together when pressed.
3. Shape the Patties:
   • Using your hands, shape the mixture into patties. You should be able to make about 8-10 patties, depending on the size.
4. Cook the Patties:
   • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the tuna patties to the skillet.
   • Cook the patties for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
5. Serve:
   • Once cooked, transfer the patties to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
   • Serve the tuna patties hot with your favorite dipping sauce, or pair them with a salad, in a sandwich, or alongside some roasted vegetables.

Cooking Tips:

• Consistency: If the mixture is too dry and crumbly, you can add a little more egg or a spoonful of mayonnaise to help bind the ingredients. If it’s too wet, add a little more rolled oats.
• Shape and Size: Try to make the patties uniform in size for even cooking. A small ice cream scoop can help in portioning out the mixture.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Fry the patties in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can cause them to steam rather than fry.

Storage Tips:

• Refrigerate: Store any leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They’re great for meal prep!
• Freeze: These patties freeze well. Lay them flat on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Reheat them in a skillet or oven until heated through.

Nutritional Facts (per patty):

• Calories: 150
• Protein: 18g
• Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 300mg

Possible Questions:

1. Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?
   • Yes, you can use fresh tuna. Cook and flake the tuna before mixing it with the other ingredients.
2. What can I use instead of rolled oats?
   • You can use breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or even cooked quinoa as a substitute for rolled oats.
3. Can I bake these patties instead of frying them?
   • Yes, you can bake the patties in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through.
4. How can I make these patties gluten-free?
   • Use gluten-free oats or substitute with a gluten-free breadcrumb or flour.

Conclusion:

These high-protein tuna patties are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. With simple ingredients and a quick cooking time, they’re a great option for busy weeknights or meal prep. Whether you’re looking for a healthy dinner option or a protein-packed snack, these tuna cakes will quickly become a go-to recipe in your kitchen!