Jamie Oliver’s Tuna Fish Cakes Recipe

Jamie Oliver’s Tuna Fish Cakes are a delightful, quick-to-make meal that combines the savory flavor of tuna with fresh herbs and crispy golden crust. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a satisfying dinner, or a tasty snack, these fish cakes provide a deliciously healthy option for any occasion.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Tuna Fish Cakes

Jamie Oliver’s Tuna Fish Cakes are a wonderfully easy and flavorful dish that combines canned tuna, mashed potatoes, and an array of herbs and spices, all shaped into cakes and pan-fried to perfection. This recipe is a classic, loved for its simplicity, versatility, and nutritious ingredients, making it a favorite in many households. You can customize the flavors based on what herbs or seasonings you have on hand, creating a dish that suits your taste preferences.

The fish cakes are crispy on the outside, golden brown, and soft and flaky on the inside. They’re typically served with a refreshing side salad, or perhaps a squeeze of lemon, making them a perfect meal for any day of the week.

Jamie Oliver’s Tuna Fish Cakes Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Jamie Oliver’s Tuna Fish Cakes, you’ll need a few essential ingredients. These are often pantry staples, which makes this recipe incredibly convenient:

1. Canned tuna – Ideally, use a good quality, sustainably sourced tuna. Two cans (around 200 grams each) should be sufficient for about four servings.
2. Mashed potatoes – You’ll need about 2 cups of mashed potatoes, which can be leftover or freshly made. The potatoes should be smooth and without lumps to form a good base for the cakes.
3. Breadcrumbs – About 1 cup, to help bind the mixture and give the fish cakes that signature crispy texture.
4. Eggs – 1 large egg is used to help hold the mixture together.
5. Fresh herbs – Parsley, dill, or chives work wonderfully to enhance the flavor. Use around 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh herbs.
6. Lemon zest – For a burst of freshness.
7. Garlic – A small clove, minced, to add aromatic depth.
8. Salt and pepper – To season the mixture.
9. Olive oil or butter – For frying the cakes to a golden crisp.
10. Optional: grated cheese – A little cheese can be mixed into the cakes to give them a rich flavor, though this is entirely optional.

Equipment Needed

The equipment you’ll need is minimal, which is one of the reasons these Tuna Fish Cakes are such a convenient dish to make:

1. Large mixing bowl – For combining all of the ingredients.
2. Frying pan or skillet – For frying the fish cakes to golden perfection.
3. Fork or potato masher – If you’re making your mashed potatoes fresh.
4. Spatula – To flip the fish cakes while cooking.
5. Measuring cups and spoons – To ensure you get the right proportions of ingredients.
6. Plate or baking sheet – For placing the formed fish cakes before frying.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Tuna Fish Cakes?

Making these Tuna Fish Cakes is relatively simple. Follow these easy steps to bring this dish to life:

1. Prepare the mashed potatoes: If you don’t have leftover mashed potatoes, boil potatoes until tender and then mash them until smooth. Let them cool slightly.
2. Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, canned tuna (drained), egg, breadcrumbs, fresh herbs, lemon zest, garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir everything until the mixture is well combined. The texture should be firm but pliable enough to form cakes. If the mixture feels too wet, you can add a little extra breadcrumb.
3. Form the fish cakes: Using your hands, take portions of the mixture and roll them into small patties, about 1 inch thick and 2-3 inches in diameter. You should be able to make around 8 cakes from this mixture.
4. Fry the fish cakes: Heat a non-stick frying pan over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil or a knob of butter. Once the pan is hot, carefully add the cakes in batches, making sure they don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry them for 3-4 minutes on each side or until they turn a golden brown and crispy.
5. Drain and serve: Once the cakes are cooked, place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve them warm with a side of salad, some lemon wedges, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Expert Tips

• Crispy coating: For extra crispness, you can roll the cakes in additional breadcrumbs or panko before frying.
• Flavor variations: Feel free to customize the fish cakes by adding a splash of hot sauce, a pinch of smoked paprika, or a handful of finely grated cheese to the mixture.
• Make ahead: These fish cakes can be prepared ahead of time. After forming the cakes, you can refrigerate them for a few hours or freeze them. Just be sure to fry them straight from the fridge or freezer.
• Use fresh tuna: If you prefer, you can use freshly cooked tuna instead of canned tuna for an even fresher taste. Just ensure it’s well-flaked and not too wet.

Jamie Oliver’s Tuna Fish Cakes are an easy, healthy, and delicious way to use canned tuna. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal equipment, you can whip up a batch of crispy, flavorful fish cakes that are perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a snack.

Whether you follow the recipe exactly or put your own spin on it, the end result will surely satisfy your taste buds. Plus, the versatility of this dish makes it a fantastic meal that can be enjoyed in various ways, depending on your preferences. So, give these fish cakes a try-you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to create such a delicious meal!.

Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s Tuna Fish Cakes

Jamie Oliver’s tuna fish cakes are a classic dish that can easily be personalized to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Below are some fun and creative variations you can try:

1. Spicy Tuna Fish Cakes: If you’re a fan of heat, add some finely chopped chili peppers, a teaspoon of smoked paprika, or a dash of sriracha sauce to the mixture. The spices will provide a nice contrast to the richness of the tuna.
2. Herb-Infused Tuna Fish Cakes: Enhance the flavor with a selection of fresh herbs like dill, parsley, cilantro, or basil. Fresh herbs will not only add a burst of flavor but also bring an extra touch of color to your dish.
3. Crispy Tuna Fish Cakes: For a bit of crunch, add some breadcrumbs to the mixture along with the usual mashed potatoes. You can even use panko breadcrumbs for an extra-crispy exterior once fried.
4. Vegetarian-Friendly Tuna Cakes: If you’re trying to reduce your fish consumption or are catering to vegetarians, you can substitute the tuna with mashed chickpeas or lentils. Add some finely chopped vegetables like carrots, corn, and peas to mimic the texture of the tuna and create a satisfying vegetarian alternative.
5. Asian-Inspired Tuna Fish Cakes: For a different flavor profile, you could introduce soy sauce, ginger, and garlic into the mix. A teaspoon of sesame oil can also infuse the cakes with an unmistakable Asian flair. Serve with a dipping sauce made of soy sauce and a little bit of rice vinegar for a delicious sidekick.
6. Tuna Fish Cakes with Cheese: For cheese lovers, consider adding a small amount of grated cheese (like cheddar or parmesan) into the mixture before forming the cakes. As they fry, the cheese will melt and create pockets of gooey goodness.
7. Tuna Fish Cakes with Sweet Potato: Replace the regular mashed potatoes with mashed sweet potatoes for a sweeter flavor and additional nutrients. The sweetness pairs beautifully with the tuna and can give the dish a new twist.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Tuna fish cakes can be a great dish to make in advance or store for later meals. Here’s how to store and reheat them properly to ensure they stay fresh and delicious:

1. Refrigeration: If you have leftovers, let the tuna fish cakes cool down to room temperature before storing them. Place them in an airtight container, and they should keep in the fridge for about 2 to 3 days. Ensure that the container is sealed properly to avoid moisture, which could make the cakes soggy.
2. Freezing: If you want to store them for longer, freezing is a great option. Place the cakes on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze them for an hour. This helps to set their shape and prevents them from sticking together. Once they are firm, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat them, you can bake or fry them directly from frozen-just make sure to adjust the cooking time.
3. Reheating: To reheat your tuna fish cakes, use the oven or a skillet. The oven method preserves the crispy exterior, so preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and bake the cakes for 10-12 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can heat them in a skillet with a little oil on medium heat for about 2-3 minutes per side. This will help retain their crispness while reheating.
4. Avoid Microwaving: While it’s possible to microwave tuna fish cakes, it can result in a soggy texture. If you must microwave them, do so in short intervals, checking them every 30 seconds to avoid overcooking.

What Goes Well With Tuna Fish Cakes?

Tuna fish cakes are versatile and can be paired with various side dishes to create a balanced and satisfying meal. Here are some great options:

1. Salads: A crisp, refreshing salad pairs perfectly with the rich and flavorful tuna cakes. Consider a mixed green salad with arugula, spinach, and watercress dressed in a simple vinaigrette. You could also try a tangy coleslaw with a zesty lemon dressing to cut through the richness of the cakes.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or sweet potatoes add a hearty side that complements the tuna cakes. The caramelized flavors from roasting elevate the overall meal.
3. Potato Wedges or Fries: For a classic pairing, serve your tuna fish cakes with crispy golden potato wedges or homemade fries. You can even season the fries with garlic, rosemary, or paprika to add extra depth of flavor.
4. Lemon and Herb Dip: A simple yet delicious dip can make all the difference. Whisk together Greek yogurt, a splash of lemon juice, fresh herbs like dill or parsley, and a pinch of salt. This creamy dip will add a tangy, refreshing contrast to the rich tuna fish cakes.
5. Rice or Quinoa: A side of brown rice, jasmine rice, or quinoa is an excellent option to make the meal more filling. The grain provides a mild, neutral base that complements the flavors of the fish cakes without overpowering them.
6. Steamed Greens: Steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus make for a healthy and light side dish. Their subtle flavors and crunchy texture pair nicely with the softness of the cakes.

Conclusion

Jamie Oliver’s tuna fish cakes are a delightful and versatile dish that can be easily customized to suit different tastes, whether you’re adding a spicy kick, experimenting with herbs, or making a vegetarian version. With a few tweaks, you can create a variety of flavor profiles to keep things exciting.

When it comes to storing leftovers, proper refrigeration or freezing ensures you can enjoy the cakes later without sacrificing flavor or texture. Lastly, there are so many delicious sides that can enhance the meal, from fresh salads to crispy fries, ensuring that you have a well-rounded, satisfying dining experience. Whether for a casual weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, tuna fish cakes are sure to impress!.

FAQs

What Are The Main Ingredients For Jamie Oliver’s Tuna Fish Cakes?

The main ingredients for Jamie Oliver’s Tuna Fish Cakes include canned tuna, mashed potatoes, eggs, breadcrumbs, fresh parsley, lemon zest, and a variety of seasonings like salt, pepper, and chili flakes. Some variations may include onions or spring onions for extra flavor.

Can I Use Fresh Tuna Instead Of Canned Tuna For The Fish Cakes?

Yes, you can use fresh tuna for Jamie Oliver’s Tuna Fish Cakes. Just make sure to cook the tuna properly (grilled or seared) and flake it before mixing it into the other ingredients. Canned tuna is typically used for convenience, but fresh tuna can add a more vibrant taste.

How Do I Make The Tuna Fish Cakes Crispy On The Outside?

To get a crispy exterior for your tuna fish cakes, coat them well with breadcrumbs before frying. For extra crispiness, use panko breadcrumbs as they are lighter and more crunchy. You can also shallow fry the cakes in a hot pan with a little oil until golden brown on both sides.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Tuna Fish Cakes Gluten-free?

Yes, you can make the recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs or substituting them with crushed gluten-free crackers or cornmeal. Be sure to double-check that all other ingredients, such as the mayonnaise (if used), are also gluten-free.

How Long Do I Need To Cook The Tuna Fish Cakes For?

The tuna fish cakes typically need to be cooked for 3-4 minutes on each side if you are frying them in a pan. The goal is to get a golden-brown color on both sides and heat them all the way through. If baking in the oven, you may need to bake them at 180°C (350°F) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Can I Prepare The Tuna Fish Cakes In Advance?

Yes, you can prepare the tuna fish cakes in advance. Once you have formed the cakes, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.

This helps them firm up. You can also freeze the cakes for later use, ensuring they are wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or placed in a freezer-safe container.

What Sides Go Well With Jamie Oliver’s Tuna Fish Cakes?

Tuna fish cakes pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Popular options include a fresh salad with a tangy lemon dressing, steamed vegetables, mashed peas, or even a simple side of roasted potatoes. You can also serve them with a dipping sauce such as tartar sauce or a squeeze of lemon.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Tuna Fish Cakes Without Eggs?

Yes, you can make these cakes without eggs by using a suitable egg replacement. Popular options include using a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water), unsweetened applesauce, or a small amount of mashed potato as a binder.

How Can I Add More Flavor To The Tuna Fish Cakes?

To enhance the flavor, you can experiment by adding ingredients like finely chopped red onion, chili flakes, or capers. Fresh herbs like dill, tarragon, or basil can also add a fragrant twist. A dollop of mustard or a touch of curry powder can give the cakes a unique flavor profile.

What Can I Substitute For Mashed Potatoes In The Tuna Fish Cakes Recipe?

If you want to replace mashed potatoes, consider using sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter flavor and extra nutrition. Cauliflower mash is also a good alternative for a low-carb version. Just ensure the consistency of the substitute is similar to mashed potatoes for the best results.