This comfort food classic combines creamy mashed potatoes with savory tuna filling, creating perfectly crispy croquettes that are both satisfying and economical. Paired with sweet-and-tangy roasted tomatoes, this dish elevates simple pantry ingredients into something special.
Ingredients
For the Potato Mixture
- Potatoes: 700g (1.5 lbs)
- Eggs: 2 large
- All-purpose flour: 5 tablespoons
- Salt: to taste
- Olive oil: for mixing and frying
For the Tuna Filling
- Canned tuna: 2 cans (about 280g/10 oz total), drained
- Spring onions: 1 bunch, finely chopped
- Onion: 1 medium, finely diced
- Carrot: 1 medium, coarsely grated
- Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon
- Black pepper: to taste
- Salt: to taste
- Olive oil: for sautéing
For the Roasted Tomatoes
- Cherry tomatoes: 2 cups
- Honey: 1 tablespoon
- Soy sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Wine vinegar: 1 tablespoon
- Garlic powder: ½ teaspoon
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes
- Peel and cut potatoes into chunks
- Boil in salted water until tender
- Drain and mash thoroughly
- Add eggs and mix well
- Set aside to cool slightly
- Make the Filling
- Heat olive oil in a pan
- Sauté diced onion for 5 minutes
- Add grated carrot, cook 10-12 minutes
- Drain tuna thoroughly
- Mix tuna with cooked vegetables
- Add spring onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper
- Mix well and cool completely
- Form the Croquettes
- Add flour to potato mixture
- Oil your hands with olive oil
- Take a portion of potato mixture
- Flatten and add tuna filling
- Seal edges to form an oval shape
- Repeat with remaining mixture
- Cooking
- Heat oil in a large skillet
- Fry croquettes until golden brown on all sides
- Drain on paper towels
- Prepare Tomatoes
- Mix honey, soy sauce, wine vinegar, and garlic powder
- Toss with cherry tomatoes
- Roast under grill for 10 minutes
Nutritional Information
(Per croquette, makes 8-10)
- Calories: 245
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
Pro Tips and Tricks
- Thoroughly drain tuna to prevent soggy filling
- Chill potato mixture for easier handling
- Oil hands between forming each croquette
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying
- Maintain medium heat to ensure even cooking
Variations and Substitutions
- Use salmon or chicken instead of tuna
- Add cheese to the filling
- Use sweet potatoes for variation
- Try different seasonings (curry, herbs)
- Make smaller portions for appetizers
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Form croquettes and refrigerate up to 24 hours
- Freeze uncooked croquettes for up to 3 months
- Reheat in oven at 350°F (175°C)
- Store cooked croquettes for 2-3 days
- Warm tomatoes just before serving
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I bake these instead of frying?
A: Yes, brush with oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway.
Q: Why are my croquettes falling apart?
A: Ensure potatoes are well-mashed and mixture is cool before forming. Add an extra tablespoon of flour if needed.
Q: Can I make these ahead for a party?
A: Yes, form and refrigerate up to 24 hours ahead. Fry just before serving.
Q: What can I serve with these?
A: Besides the roasted tomatoes, try a green salad, aioli, or lemon wedges.
Keywords: tuna croquettes, potato cakes, seafood recipe, budget dinner, easy croquettes, tuna potato patties, crispy croquettes, comfort food