Tuna Rice Patties

Prep: 15 min Cook: 15 min Serves: 5 Cuisine: American

Flavorful tuna rice patties combine tender rice and tuna with fresh herbs, perfect for a quick, savory meal suited for lunch or dinner. Crispy and delicious.

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Ingredients

  • 1 large can tuna
  • 2 cups rice
  • 1 egg
  • 2 tablespoons onion, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • oil

Instructions

  1. Rinse the tuna in boiling water and drain.
  2. Steam the rice until tender.
  3. In a mixing bowl, blend the drained tuna with the cooked rice.
  4. Add the beaten egg, chopped onion, chopped parsley, flour, and salt to the mixture and combine well.
  5. Shape the mixture into flat cakes.
  6. Heat oil in a skillet and brown the patties until golden brown on both sides.
  7. Serve hot with your favorite tomato sauce.

Tips & Substitutions

For a twist, try adding diced bell peppers or substituting canned salmon for tuna. If you prefer a lighter option, use whole grain or cauliflower rice. Make sure to drain the tuna well to avoid soggy patties. The mixture should hold together; if too dry, add a touch of water or extra egg. These patties are similar to Tuna Puff Sandwiches, making them a versatile choice.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these tuna rice patties hot, paired with a zesty tomato sauce or tartar sauce for dipping. They also complement a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a more substantial dish, consider serving alongside a portion of 5 Minute Noodle Dinner or a light soup.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover tuna rice patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, about 3-4 minutes per side, or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes for a crispier texture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Tuna Rice Patties contains roughly 637 calories, with 11g protein, 89g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (31% of the Daily Value), protein (23% of the Daily Value), and potassium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 737mg per serving (32% of the Daily Value).

637 kcal 32% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 11.4g 23% DV
Total Fat 27.5g 35% DV
Carbs 89.4g 33% DV
Fiber 2.3g 8% DV
Sugar 0.3g 1% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 736.7mg 32% DV
Potassium 929.7mg 20% DV
Cholesterol 251.3mg 84% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 62.2mcg 7% DV
Vitamin C 9.4mg 10% DV
Vitamin D 0.1mcg 1% DV
Calcium 234.3mg 18% DV
Iron 5.6mg 31% DV
Contains Egg Wheat/Gluten Fish

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 make these patties ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture and shape the patties ahead of time. Refrigerate them for up to a day before frying. Just ensure they are well-covered to prevent drying out. When ready to cook, simply heat the oil and pan-fry as directed.

What can I substitute for rice?

If you're looking for alternatives to rice, consider using quinoa, couscous, or even mashed potatoes for a different texture. Cauliflower rice is a great low-carb option. Just ensure that any substitute is cooked and cooled before mixing with the other ingredients.

Can I freeze the patties?

Yes, these patties freeze well. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag once solid. They can be kept for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain texture.

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).

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