Sweet Sour Tuna
Sweet Sour Tuna is a delightful dish that combines the savory flavors of tuna with a tangy sauce made from vinegar, brown sugar, and catsup. Enhanced with pineapple and green pepper, this dish is perfect for a quick family dinner over rice, appealing to those who enjoy a balance of sweet and savory.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend cornstarch and vinegar in a skillet.
- Add brown sugar, catsup, and shoyu. Cook, stirring constantly, until thickened.
- Add tuna. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Add pineapple and green pepper. Continue cooking for 5 minutes.
- Serve over hot cooked rice.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of minced garlic or ginger to the sauce while thickening. If you prefer a sweeter taste, increase the brown sugar slightly. For a healthier twist, substitute the catsup with a homemade tomato sauce. This dish can also be made with canned salmon for a different protein option. Pair it with a side of steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Sweet Sour Tuna over a bed of hot cooked rice for a satisfying meal. It pairs well with steamed broccoli or a fresh salad for added crunch and nutrition. For a complete dinner, consider serving it alongside a side of Asparagus Crab Omelets or a light fruit salad to balance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave it for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway to ensure even heating. Do not freeze, as the texture may change.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet Sour Tuna contains roughly 1107 calories, with 16g protein, 254g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 761mg per serving (33% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tuna, but you'll need to cook it until it's fully cooked through before adding it to the sauce. This will enhance the dish's freshness and flavor. Just make sure to cut the tuna into small pieces for even cooking.
What can I substitute for brown sugar?
If you don't have brown sugar, you can use white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses for a similar flavor. Alternatively, honey or maple syrup can also work, but adjust the quantity as they are sweeter. Keep in mind that this may slightly alter the sauce's consistency.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Sweet Sour Tuna is great for meal prep. You can cook a larger batch and portion it out for lunches or dinners throughout the week. Just store it properly and reheat as needed to enjoy a quick and delicious meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).