These Spicy Tuna Pancakes are a delightful twist on traditional pancakes, combining savory flavors and a satisfying crunch. Perfect as an appetizer or a meal, they bring a zesty kick that will warm your taste buds. Let’s dive into this easy and tasty recipe!
Why make this recipe
Making Spicy Tuna Pancakes is an excellent way to enjoy a delicious meal that’s both quick and effortless. With pantry staples like canned tuna and flour, this recipe is ideal for busy nights or when you’re looking for a creative way to use up what’s on hand. The mix of fresh ingredients and spices gives these pancakes a unique flavor profile that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 2 cans (5 ounces each) tuna in water, drained and flaked
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- ¾ cup water
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
- 2 tbsp hot sauce, such as sriracha
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- ¼ tsp ground black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil, for frying
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro, for serving
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise, for serving
- 1 tbsp hot sauce, for the dipping sauce
How to make it
- Drain the tuna thoroughly and flake it into a large bowl. Add green onions, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, hot sauce, crushed red pepper flakes, black pepper, salt, and sesame seeds. Mix until evenly combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, eggs, and water until smooth. Add the seasoned tuna mixture and stir gently until evenly incorporated.
- Heat vegetable oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat for about 2 minutes, until a small drop of batter immediately sizzles without the oil smoking.
- Add approximately ⅓ cup batter per pancake and spread each into a 4-inch round about ½ inch thick. Cook 2 to 3 pancakes at a time for 3 to 4 minutes, until the bottoms are deep golden brown.
- Flip the pancakes carefully and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes. The second side should be golden brown and the centers should be firm and cooked through.
- Transfer the pancakes to a wire rack or paper towels and let them rest for about 1 minute.
- Mix mayonnaise and hot sauce together in a small bowl to make the dipping sauce.
- Garnish the warm pancakes with chopped cilantro and serve immediately with the spicy mayonnaise dipping sauce.
How to serve it
These Spicy Tuna Pancakes are best served hot straight from the skillet. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro for a burst of color and flavor. Pair them with the spicy mayonnaise dipping sauce for an extra kick. They make a great appetizer or can even serve as a light main dish alongside a fresh salad.
How to store it
If you have leftovers, allow the pancakes to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently pan-fry them in a bit of oil or warm them in a toaster oven until heated through.
Helpful tips
- Make sure to drain the tuna well to avoid excess moisture, which can make the batter too wet.
- Monitor the heat of your skillet; if the oil smokes, reduce the heat slightly.
- Feel free to experiment with the amount of hot sauce to match your spice preference!
Optional variations
- For an added crunch, consider mixing in finely chopped bell peppers or corn into the tuna mixture.
- Substitute the tuna with canned salmon or any other canned fish for a different flavor.
Frequently asked questions
Can I freeze the pancakes?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked pancakes. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer bag once solid. They can be reheated directly from frozen.
What can I serve with these pancakes?
These pancakes pair well with a fresh salad, pickled vegetables, or even avocado slices for a tasty meal.
Can I adjust the spice level?
Absolutely! You can adjust the amount of hot sauce and crushed red pepper flakes according to your taste preferences to make them milder or spicier.
Enjoy making and indulging in these delightful Spicy Tuna Pancakes!
