Asian Tuna Cakes with Spicy Mayo Recipe
Introduction
These Asian Tuna Cakes are a flavorful twist on a classic favorite, packed with fresh ingredients and a hint of spice. Crispy on the outside and tender inside, they pair perfectly with a creamy, zesty spicy mayo for dipping.

Ingredients
- 2 (142 g) cans flaked white tuna, drained
- 2 green onions, finely chopped (separate whites and greens)
- 1 egg
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp arrowroot powder (or regular flour)
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ cup gluten-free crumbs or panko crumbs
- Avocado oil, for frying
- Sesame oil, for frying
- For the spicy mayo:
- Mayonnaise
- Lime juice
- Sriracha sauce
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: In a mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, the whites of the green onions, egg, soy sauce, arrowroot powder, mayonnaise, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Step 2: Shape the mixture into patties about 2 inches in diameter. Coat each patty evenly with gluten-free or panko crumbs.
- Step 3: Heat a nonstick pan over medium heat and add a blend of avocado oil and sesame oil. Fry the tuna cakes for approximately 2 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
- Step 4: For the spicy mayo, whisk together mayonnaise, lime juice, sriracha sauce, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust the heat to taste.
- Step 5: Serve the tuna cakes hot with the spicy mayo on the side for dipping. Garnish with the green parts of the chopped green onions if desired.
Tips & Variations
- Use arrowroot powder for a gluten-free option or substitute with regular flour if preferred.
- Add finely chopped cilantro or ginger to the mixture for extra freshness and depth of flavor.
- For a milder dip, reduce the amount of sriracha or replace it with a sweet chili sauce.
- Try baking the tuna cakes at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes as a healthier alternative to frying.
Storage
Store leftover tuna cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat to maintain crispiness, or warm briefly in the oven. The spicy mayo can be stored separately in the fridge for up to a week.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?
Yes, but be sure to cook the fresh tuna first and flake it before mixing. Canned tuna offers convenience and consistent texture, making this recipe quick and easy.
What can I use instead of mayonnaise?
You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter option, though the flavor and creaminess will be slightly different.
PrintAsian Tuna Cakes with Spicy Mayo Recipe
These Asian Tuna Cakes are a flavorful and crispy appetizer or light meal option. Made with flaked white tuna, green onions, and a touch of soy sauce, they are coated in gluten-free crumbs and pan-fried to golden perfection. Served with a zesty spicy mayo, they offer a delightful combination of savory, tangy, and spicy flavors perfect for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Total Time: 21 minutes
- Yield: 6 tuna cakes 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Tuna Cakes
- 2 (142 g) cans flaked white tuna, drained
- 2 green onions, finely chopped (whites and greens separated)
- 1 egg
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp arrowroot powder (or regular flour)
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ cup gluten-free crumbs or panko crumbs
- Avocado oil, for frying
- Sesame oil, for frying
Spicy Mayo
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp sriracha sauce
- Pinch of salt and pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Tuna Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, the whites of the green onions, the egg, soy sauce, arrowroot powder, mayonnaise, minced garlic, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Form the Cakes: Shape the mixture into patties about 2 inches in diameter. Coat each patty evenly in gluten-free crumbs or panko crumbs for a crispy exterior.
- Cook the Tuna Cakes: Heat a nonstick pan over medium heat and add a mix of avocado oil and sesame oil. Fry the tuna cakes for about 2 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Make the Spicy Mayo: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lime juice, sriracha sauce, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve: Plate the warm tuna cakes and serve with the spicy mayo for dipping.
Notes
- Arrowroot powder can be substituted with regular all-purpose flour if needed.
- Use gluten-free crumbs to keep this recipe gluten-free.
- Adjust sriracha quantity in the spicy mayo to control the heat level.
- For a crispier crust, you can double coat the tuna cakes in crumbs.
- Make sure oil is hot enough before frying to avoid soggy cakes.
Keywords: Asian Tuna Cakes, Tuna Patties, Gluten Free Tuna Cakes, Spicy Mayo, Appetizer, Seafood Cakes

