Tuna and Potato Patties are a delicious, budget-friendly dish that can be enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or even a main course. These crispy-on-the-outside and soft-on-the-inside patties are a great way to incorporate healthy tuna and nutrient-rich vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and onions into your meal. They’re not only simple to make but are also highly customizable, allowing you to adjust the flavors to suit your taste. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping, these tuna patties can be served with your favorite dipping sauce or side salad for a light and satisfying meal.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- Tuna (canned, drained): 2 cans (155g each)
- Potatoes (boiled and mashed): 2 medium-sized
- Carrot (finely chopped): 1/2 cup
- Onion (finely chopped): 1 medium
- Garlic (minced): 5 cloves
- Spring onion (finely chopped): 2 tablespoons
- All-purpose flour: 2 tablespoons
- Cornstarch: 2 tablespoons
- Egg: 1 large
- Salt and pepper: To taste
- Oil for frying
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
- Boil and Mash the Potatoes:
Start by boiling the potatoes in salted water until they’re fork-tender. Drain and mash them until smooth. Set aside to cool. - Chop the Vegetables:
While the potatoes are boiling, finely chop the carrot, onion, and spring onion. Mince the garlic.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
- Combine Tuna and Vegetables:
In a large bowl, mix the drained tuna, mashed potatoes, chopped carrots, onion, minced garlic, and spring onion. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. - Add Dry Ingredients and Egg:
Add the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, egg, salt, and pepper to the tuna mixture. The flour and cornstarch will help bind the patties and keep them from falling apart. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Step 3: Shape the Patties
- Form the Patties:
Scoop out a portion of the mixture (about 2 tablespoons) and shape it into small patties with your hands. Flatten them slightly so they cook evenly. Repeat this process until all the mixture is used up. - Refrigerate the Patties:
Place the shaped patties on a tray and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow them to firm up. This step helps the patties hold their shape better while frying.
Step 4: Fry the Patties
- Heat the Oil:
Heat a generous amount of oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Ensure the oil is hot before adding the patties, so they become crispy. - Fry the Patties:
Gently place the patties into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes per side or until they are golden brown and crispy. - Drain the Patties:
Once cooked, remove the patties from the pan and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Step 5: Serve
Serve your delicious Tuna and Potato Patties with a dipping sauce of your choice, such as garlic aioli, tartar sauce, or ketchup. You can also serve them with a fresh side salad or some steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Cooking Tips:
- Use Cold Ingredients:
For firmer patties that hold their shape, make sure the mashed potatoes and tuna mixture are cold before shaping and frying. Chilling the mixture in the refrigerator for a few minutes can help prevent the patties from breaking apart during cooking. - Add More Vegetables:
You can customize the patties by adding other finely chopped vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition. - Bake for a Healthier Option:
If you prefer a healthier alternative to frying, you can bake the patties. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and bake the patties on a greased baking sheet for 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through. - Panko for Extra Crunch:
For an extra crispy coating, you can roll the patties in panko breadcrumbs before frying.
Storage:
- Refrigeration:
Store any leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a frying pan or oven until they are warmed through. - Freezing:
You can also freeze uncooked patties by placing them on a baking sheet in the freezer until they’re firm, then transferring them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to cook, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before frying.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):
These are estimates based on approximate values.
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Vitamin A: 10% of Daily Value
- Iron: 8% of Daily Value
- Calcium: 4% of Daily Value
FAQs:
- Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned tuna?
Yes, you can use fresh tuna that has been cooked and flaked, but canned tuna is more convenient and works just as well for this recipe. - What can I substitute for potatoes?
If you want to avoid potatoes, you can substitute with sweet potatoes, mashed chickpeas, or even cooked quinoa to give the patties structure and bulk. - Can I make these patties gluten-free?
To make these patties gluten-free, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour mix or cornstarch. - What can I serve these patties with?
These patties go well with a variety of side dishes like a fresh green salad, coleslaw, or steamed vegetables. You can also serve them in a sandwich or wrap for a more substantial meal. - How can I make the patties spicier?
To add a kick of spice, you can mix in some finely chopped chili peppers or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the patty mixture.
Conclusion:
Tuna and Potato Patties are a delicious, protein-packed dish that is both easy to make and full of flavor. Whether you’re cooking them for a family dinner, a casual lunch, or meal prepping for the week, these patties are versatile and nutritious. With the perfect balance of creamy mashed potatoes and savory tuna, these crispy delights are sure to please any crowd. Plus, you can easily customize them with different vegetables, spices, or sauces to suit your personal preferences. Try this recipe today and enjoy a simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion!