Asian-Style Tuna Cakes with Spicy Mayo are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with bold umami flavor. These easy tuna patties are made with pantry staples and topped with a creamy, spicy mayo that adds the perfect kick. If you’re looking for a quick, protein-rich dinner, this Asian-Style Tuna Cakes with Spicy Mayo recipe is a must-try.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in under 20 minutes
- Crispy golden exterior with soft, flavorful center
- Simple ingredients you likely already have
- Perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep
- Family-friendly with adjustable spice level
Ingredients

For the Tuna Cakes:
- 2 cans tuna in water (5 oz each), drained
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1–2 tablespoons olive oil, for cooking (optional)
For the Spicy Mayo:
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise (45 ml)
- 1 teaspoon sriracha sauce (5 ml), or to taste
Instructions
Step 1 – Mix the Tuna Mixture
In a medium bowl, combine drained tuna, egg, breadcrumbs, soy sauce, ground ginger, salt, and black pepper. Mix until the mixture holds together and becomes slightly sticky.
Step 2 – Shape the Patties
Form the mixture into 6–8 small patties, pressing gently to compact them so they don’t fall apart during cooking.
Step 3 – Cook the Tuna Cakes
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook each patty for about 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Step 4 – Make the Spicy Mayo
In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise and sriracha until smooth. Adjust spice level to taste.
Step 5 – Serve
Drizzle spicy mayo over the warm tuna cakes or serve it on the side for dipping.
These Asian-Style Tuna Cakes with Spicy Mayo are best enjoyed hot and crispy.

Tips & Tricks
- Drain tuna thoroughly to prevent soggy patties.
- If mixture feels too wet, add extra breadcrumbs gradually.
- Chill patties for 10 minutes before cooking for better shape retention.
- Add chopped green onions or sesame seeds for extra flavor.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness.
Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 patties
- Category: Main Course / Appetizer
- Method: Pan-Seared
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Difficulty: Easy
- Dietary Notes: Halal-friendly

Notes
- Serve over jasmine rice or in lettuce wraps.
- Add shredded cabbage and carrots for a quick slaw.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for part of the mayo for a lighter sauce.
Nutrition (Approximate per serving, 2 patties)
- Calories: 290 kcal
- Protein: 28 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fat: 14 g
FAQ
Can I bake the tuna cakes instead?
Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Can I air fry them?
Absolutely. Air fry at 375°F for about 8–10 minutes.
How do I keep them from falling apart?
Make sure tuna is well drained and mixture is compact when shaping.
Can I make them ahead of time?
Yes, shape patties and refrigerate up to 24 hours before cooking.
Are Asian-Style Tuna Cakes with Spicy Mayo spicy?
The spice level depends on how much sriracha you add. Adjust to preference.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store cooked tuna cakes in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze uncooked patties separated by parchment paper for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet or air fryer for best crisp texture.

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Asian-Style Tuna Cakes with Spicy Mayo
Ingredients
For the Tuna Cakes:
- 2 cans tuna in water 5 oz each, drained
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 –2 tablespoons olive oil for cooking (optional)
For the Spicy Mayo:
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise 45 ml
- 1 teaspoon sriracha sauce 5 ml, or to taste
Instructions
Step 1 – Mix the Tuna Mixture
- In a medium bowl, combine drained tuna, egg, breadcrumbs, soy sauce, ground ginger, salt, and black pepper. Mix until the mixture holds together and becomes slightly sticky.
Step 2 – Shape the Patties
- Form the mixture into 6–8 small patties, pressing gently to compact them so they don’t fall apart during cooking.
Step 3 – Cook the Tuna Cakes
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook each patty for about 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Step 4 – Make the Spicy Mayo
- In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise and sriracha until smooth. Adjust spice level to taste.
Step 5 – Serve
- Drizzle spicy mayo over the warm tuna cakes or serve it on the side for dipping.
- These Asian-Style Tuna Cakes with Spicy Mayo are best enjoyed hot and crispy.
Notes
- Serve over jasmine rice or in lettuce wraps.
Conclusion
Asian-Style Tuna Cakes with Spicy Mayo are quick, flavorful, and satisfyingly crispy. With minimal ingredients and bold taste, this easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Once you try these Asian-Style Tuna Cakes with Spicy Mayo, they’ll become a go-to in your kitchen.

