Tuna cakes, known as "Tortitas de Atún" in Spanish, are a popular dish in Mexican cuisine. These savory patties combine canned tuna with breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings, then are pan-fried to golden perfection. They are often served with a side of rice, salad, or in a sandwich, making them a versatile option for lunch or dinner.
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Ingredients
🐟 2 cans (5 oz each) of tuna in water, drained
🥚 2 large eggs
🍞 ½ cup breadcrumbs
🧅 ¼ cup finely chopped onion
🌿 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
🌶️ 1 small jalapeño, finely chopped (optional, for heat)
🧂 Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
🫒 Vegetable oil, for frying
Equipment
• Mixing bowl
• Skillet or frying pan
• Spatula
• Paper towels
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Calories & Macros (per serving)
• Calories: 200
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fat: 10g
Instructions
1. Prepare the Mixture
o In a mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, eggs, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, cilantro or parsley, and jalapeño (if using).
o Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
o Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
2. Form the Patties
o Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape them into patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter.
o Ensure they are compact to prevent them from falling apart during cooking.
3. Heat the Oil
o In a skillet or frying pan, heat about 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat.
o Ensure the oil is hot but not smoking.
4. Cook the Tuna Cakes
o Place the patties in the skillet, leaving space between them.
o Cook for approximately 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and heated through.
o Adjust the heat as necessary to prevent burning.
5. Drain and Serve
o Once cooked, transfer the tuna cakes to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
o Serve warm, accompanied by your choice of side dishes or sauces.
Cooking and Serving Tips
• Binding: If the mixture feels too dry and doesn't hold together well, add a little more beaten egg or a tablespoon of mayonnaise to help bind the ingredients.
• Flavor Variations: For added flavor, consider incorporating minced garlic, lemon zest, or grated cheese into the mixture.
• Serving Suggestions: Tuna cakes pair well with a fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or can be served in a sandwich with lettuce and tomato.
• Storage: Leftover tuna cakes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a skillet over low heat to maintain their crispiness.
Enjoy these flavorful Tuna Cakes as a delightful addition to your meal repertoire!