Tuna and Egg Patties with Creamy Sauce

The Story Behind the Dish

Comfort food takes on a new meaning with these incredible Tuna and Egg Patties – a dish that transforms simple pantry ingredients into a mouth-watering meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. Born from the need to create a delicious, protein-packed dish that’s both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying, these patties blend the rich flavors of tuna with the creamy texture of eggs and a zesty accompanying sauce.

Ingredients

For the Patties:

  • 3 large eggs (US) / 150g eggs (Europe)
  • 2 cans of tuna, drained (approx. 200g / 7 oz)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp sweet paprika
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tbsp breadcrumbs
  • 2 green onions, finely chopped
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 5-6 medium potatoes (approx. 750g / 26 oz)
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 100 ml (1/2 cup) warm milk

For the Creamy Sauce:

  • 3 tbsp sour cream
  • 1 tbsp mayonnaise
  • 1 tsp French mustard
  • 1 pickled cucumber, finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Potatoes
    • Peel and quarter the potatoes
    • Boil in salted water until tender (about 15-20 minutes)
    • Drain and mash with warm milk, butter, salt, and pepper
    • Set aside to cool slightly
  2. Mix Patty Ingredients
    • In a large mixing bowl, crack the eggs
    • Drain and flake the tuna, adding to the eggs
    • Add chopped parsley, green onions, lemon zest
    • Sprinkle in salt, sweet paprika, and black pepper
    • Mix in breadcrumbs
  3. Form the Patties
    • Fold the mashed potatoes into the tuna mixture
    • Mix thoroughly until well combined
    • Shape into 4-5 round patties using your hands
    • If mixture is too wet, add a bit more breadcrumbs
  4. Cook the Patties
    • Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat
    • Carefully place patties in the pan
    • Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown
    • Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C)
  5. Prepare the Sauce
    • In a small bowl, combine sour cream and mayonnaise
    • Stir in French mustard
    • Add finely chopped pickled cucumber and dill
    • Season with salt and black pepper
    • Mix well

Nutritional Information

Per Serving (1 patty with sauce):

  • Calories: 280
  • Protein: 18g
  • Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Fat: 12g
  • Fiber: 3g

Cooking Time:

  • Prep: 20 minutes
  • Cooking: 15 minutes
  • Total: 35 minutes

Servings: 4-5 patties

Pro Cooking Tips and Tricks

  • Ensure tuna is well-drained to prevent soggy patties
  • Use a non-stick skillet for easier flipping
  • Let patties rest for 2-3 minutes after cooking to help them set
  • For a crispy exterior, dust patties lightly with flour before frying
  • Use fresh herbs for maximum flavor

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

  • Protein Alternatives:
    • Replace tuna with canned salmon
    • Use shredded chicken instead
    • Try plant-based tuna alternatives for a vegetarian version
  • Gluten-Free Option:
    • Substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour
    • Use gluten-free breadcrumbs
  • Dairy-Free Modification:
    • Replace milk with unsweetened almond milk
    • Use coconut oil instead of butter
    • Substitute sour cream with coconut yogurt

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I make these patties ahead of time? A: Yes! Prepare the mixture and shape patties up to 24 hours in advance. Store covered in the refrigerator and cook when ready.

Q2: How do I prevent my patties from falling apart? A: Ensure ingredients are well mixed, use breadcrumbs as a binder, and let patties rest before cooking.

Q3: Can I bake these instead of frying? A: Absolutely! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Q4: Are these patties freezer-friendly? A: Cooked patties can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat in a skillet.

Q5: What can I serve with these patties? A: Great with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or as a burger alternative on a bun.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Refrigeration: Store cooked patties in an airtight container for 3-4 days
  • Freezing: Wrap individually in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer bag
  • Reheating: Best reheated in a skillet to maintain crispiness
  • Sauce: Prepare sauce up to 2 days in advance, store in the refrigerator

Enjoy your delicious Tuna and Egg Patties – a perfect blend of convenience, nutrition, and flavor!