Baked Tuna Balls

Baked Tuna Balls Recipe from Nigeria with Mayonnaise and Almonds

Region / culture: Nigeria | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 10

Introduction

Baked Tuna Balls are a delightful and nutritious appetizer that combines the rich flavors of tuna with a crispy outer layer, making them a perfect start to any meal or a great snack on their own. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also offers a healthier alternative to traditional fried appetizers. Whether you're hosting a party, looking for a new addition to your meal prep routine, or simply want to try something different, these tuna balls are sure to impress.

History

The concept of using tuna in recipes has been around for centuries, with various cultures incorporating this versatile fish into their cuisines. However, the idea of creating bite-sized, baked tuna balls is a relatively modern innovation. It likely originated as a way to make use of canned tuna, a pantry staple, in a more creative and appealing manner. Over time, the recipe has evolved, with cooks adding their own twist by experimenting with different herbs, spices, and coatings to enhance the flavor and texture.

Ingredients

6.5 oz (184 g) can of drained tuna
1 egg
0.5 cup of bread crumbs
3 tbsp of mayonnaise
2 tbsp of chopped onion
2 tbsp of chopped parsley
2 tbsp of chopped almonds
1 tsp of prepared mustard
0.5 tsp of poultry seasoning
0.5 cup of crushed corn flakes
2 tbsp of melted butter

How to prepare

Combine tuna, egg, bread crumbs, mayonnaise, onion, parsley, almonds, mustard, and poultry seasoning. Mix well. Shape into 40 balls and roll in corn flakes.
Dip the balls in melted butter.
Bake at 450°F (232°C) for 10 minutes.
Serve on cocktail picks.

Variations

For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free bread crumbs and corn flakes.
Add a spicy kick by including chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper in the mixture.
Substitute almonds with other nuts like walnuts or pecans for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Baked Tuna Balls turn out perfectly, consider the following tips:

- Drain the tuna thoroughly to prevent the mixture from becoming too wet.

- Use fresh herbs for a more vibrant flavor.

- If the mixture is too dry, add a little more mayonnaise to help it bind.

- Chill the tuna balls in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before baking to help them hold their shape.

- For an extra crispy exterior, lightly spray the balls with cooking spray before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Baked Tuna Balls on a platter with cocktail picks for easy enjoyment. They pair wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces, such as tartar sauce, aioli, or a simple yogurt-based dip. For a complete meal, accompany them with a fresh salad or a side of steamed vegetables.

Cooking Techniques

Baking is the preferred cooking technique for this recipe as it allows the tuna balls to cook evenly while achieving a crispy exterior without the need for excessive oil.

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap the tuna for canned salmon or chicken for a different taste.

- Use crushed rice cereal or panko breadcrumbs instead of corn flakes for a different texture.

- Greek yogurt can replace mayonnaise for a lighter version.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the tuna mixture and shape into balls ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking, allowing you to save time when preparing for guests or meal prepping.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the Baked Tuna Balls on a bed of lettuce leaves and garnish with lemon wedges and fresh parsley for an elegant presentation. Serving them in a decorative dish can also enhance the visual appeal.

Pairing Recommendations

These tuna balls pair beautifully with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon complements the flavors well.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes, or until heated through, to maintain their crispiness.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Baked Tuna Balls contains approximately 150 calories. This makes them a relatively low-calorie option for those monitoring their calorie intake.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Baked Tuna Balls contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates. The primary sources of carbohydrates in this recipe are the bread crumbs and corn flakes, which provide the balls with their structure and crispy texture.

Fats

The Baked Tuna Balls contain about 7 grams of fat per serving. The fats come from the mayonnaise, almonds, and melted butter. Using light mayonnaise and reducing the amount of butter can lower the fat content if desired.

Proteins

Tuna is an excellent source of high-quality protein. Each serving of these Baked Tuna Balls offers around 14 grams of protein, making them a satisfying and muscle-friendly option for meals or snacks.

Vitamins and minerals

These tuna balls are rich in various vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin D, B12, selenium, and omega-3 fatty acids, thanks to the tuna. The parsley and almonds also contribute additional nutrients, such as Vitamin C, calcium, and iron.

Alergens

The main allergens in this recipe are fish (tuna), eggs, wheat (bread crumbs), and nuts (almonds). Those with allergies to these ingredients should avoid this dish or find suitable substitutions.

Summary

Overall, Baked Tuna Balls are a nutritious and balanced option, offering a good mix of proteins, healthy fats, and carbohydrates, along with essential vitamins and minerals. They are relatively low in calories, making them a great choice for a healthy diet.

Summary

Baked Tuna Balls are a versatile, delicious, and nutritious option suitable for a variety of occasions. With their rich flavor, crispy texture, and health benefits, they're sure to become a favorite. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or part of a meal, these tuna balls offer a delightful eating experience that can be customized to suit different tastes and dietary needs.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately hooked. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Sarah for a backyard barbecue. As we chatted and laughed, Sarah's mother brought out a plate of golden brown tuna balls that had just come out of the oven. The aroma that wafted from them was simply irresistible.

I asked Sarah's mother for the recipe, and she happily shared it with me. She explained how she had learned to make the tuna balls from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make them myself.

The next day, I gathered all the ingredients needed for the tuna balls and set to work in my own kitchen. As I mixed together the tuna, breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings, I couldn't help but think of Sarah's family and the generations of women who had made this dish before me. It felt like I was connecting to a long line of cooks who had all shared a love for good food and family traditions.

When the tuna balls came out of the oven, I eagerly took a bite. The flavors exploded in my mouth - the savory tuna, the crispy breadcrumbs, the perfect blend of seasonings. It was like nothing I had ever tasted before. I knew then that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen.

Over the years, I have made these tuna balls countless times. I have shared them with friends and family, always receiving rave reviews. It never fails to bring a smile to my face when someone takes a bite and exclaims how delicious they are.

As I continued to make the tuna balls, I began to experiment with different variations of the recipe. Sometimes I would add a touch of lemon zest for a burst of freshness, or mix in some chopped herbs for an extra layer of flavor. Each time I made them, I felt like I was adding my own unique twist to a dish that had been passed down through the generations.

One day, I decided to enter a cooking competition at the local fair. I knew that the tuna balls would be my winning dish. As I stood at my station, carefully shaping the mixture into perfect little balls, I felt a sense of pride and excitement. This recipe was not just a dish to me - it was a connection to my past, a tribute to the women who had come before me.

When the judges tasted my tuna balls, their eyes widened in delight. They praised the dish for its bold flavors and perfect texture. I could hardly contain my joy when they announced that I had won first place in the competition.

From that day on, the tuna balls became known as my signature dish. Friends and neighbors would often request them for potlucks and parties, knowing that they would be a hit every time. I loved sharing this recipe with others, knowing that it brought a little piece of my family's history into their homes.

As I grew older, I continued to make the tuna balls, passing the recipe down to my own children and grandchildren. I taught them the importance of good food and family traditions, showing them that a simple dish could bring people together and create lasting memories.

Now, as I sit in my kitchen, shaping the tuna mixture into perfect little balls just like I did all those years ago, I can't help but feel a sense of satisfaction. This recipe has brought me so much joy and connected me to my past in a way that I never could have imagined. And as I take a bite of a freshly baked tuna ball, I know that this dish will always hold a special place in my heart.