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Crispy Tuna Fritters

These crispy tuna fritters are a quick, affordable, and delicious mealperfect for busy weeknights, light lunches, or savoury appetizers.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cans tuna drained well
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 small onion finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese optional
  • 2 –3 tablespoons olive oil for frying

Method
 

  1. Drain the canned tuna thoroughly and place it into a large mixing bowl. Break it apart gently with a fork.
  2. Add the eggs, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, parsley, lemon juice, paprika, mayonnaise, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and black pepper.
  3. Mix everything together until fully combined. The mixture should hold together easily when shaped. If it feels too wet, add a little more breadcrumbs.
  4. Form the mixture into small patties or fritters using your hands.
  5. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  6. Place the tuna fritters into the hot pan without overcrowding. Cook for about 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
  7. Transfer the cooked fritters to a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.
  8. Serve warm with lemon wedges, tartar sauce, garlic aioli, or a fresh salad.
  9. ________________________________________

Notes

Chef’s Tips
  • Drain the tuna extremely well to prevent soggy fritters.
  • Chilling the mixture for 15–20 minutes before frying helps the patties hold their shape better.
  • Add chopped chili or cayenne pepper for extra heat.
  • Panko breadcrumbs create an even crispier texture.
  • These fritters can be baked at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes for a lighter version.
  • Leftover tuna fritters store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat beautifully in an air fryer or skillet.