Keto Tuna Patties

Seafood lovers will enjoy this delicious and easy-to-prepare keto tuna patties recipe.

Made with simple but nutritious ingredients, including almond flour, tuna, and cabbage, this low-carb dish is packed with healthy fats and won’t kick you out of ketosis.

Why you’ll love this keto-friendly recipe

Tuna is high in protein, which makes this dish a superb option to maintain muscle mass and promote satiety. This oily fish species is also a rich source of essential fats, including heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids. 

These patties are made with eggs and almond flour, which offer essential nutrients and high-quality fats to sustain energy production and support a healthy body.  

Almond flour, a gluten-free and low-carb alternative to traditional wheat flour, ensures the patties hold together beautifully without adding unnecessary carbs.

The addition of cabbage not only adds a crunchy texture but also offers various bioactive compounds with several health benefits. 

Research published in the Journal of Food Science found that cabbage has a positive impact on blood glucose regulation, making it especially beneficial for those with diabetes and metabolic syndrome. 

The study also found that cabbage may reduce damage to vital organs such as the liver and kidneys, which are often affected by diabetes-related complications. 

What’s more, the coleslaw dressing contains mayonnaise and apple cider vinegar, which provide a creamy tanginess that compliments the flavor profile of the tuna patties.

Is tuna high in mercury? 

Mercury is a toxic metal that can accumulate in the body of fish over time. Larger predatory fish, including tuna, tend to have higher levels of mercury due to their position in the food chain, which exposes them to increased mercury bioaccumulation. 

Bioaccumulation occurs when aquatic species absorb small amounts of environmental toxins, which build up in their tissues over time.

“Skipjack and canned light tuna typically have lower mercury levels than bigeye, albacore, or canned white tuna,” explains Dr. Berg. “Canned sockeye or pink Alaskan salmon are among the best choices to limit mercury exposure.”

In addition, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends limiting the consumption of all types of tuna to two to three servings per week.

Wild-caught vs. farm-raised fish 

Wild-caught fish are those captured in their natural habitat, including oceans, lakes, or rivers.

In contrast, farm-raised fish are raised in enclosed habitats, such as large-scale fish farms or aquaculture facilities.

While both types of fish are available for consumption, there are some significant differences to consider.

“Farm-raised fish are often fed corn meal, soy meal, and wheat, which typically are genetically modified organisms (GMO). This affects the quality of the fish, making it less nutritious,” explains Dr. Berg.

Additionally, farm-raised fish tend to have higher concentrations of certain contaminants, including polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), due to their confined living space. 

PCBs are toxic synthetic chemicals that have been linked to cancer, reproductive issues, and neurological problems. 

Conversely, wild-caught fish have access to a diverse diet, leading to higher levels of healthy omega-3 fatty acids, crucial for brain and heart health.

Wild-caught fish also tend to have lower mercury levels due to their natural habitat, which experiences less pollution from human activities.

When shopping for fish, look for labels that specify wild-caught or sustainably sourced to ensure you get the best quality and highest nutritional value. 

What to serve with tuna patties

If you want to add variety to your meal, here are a few mouthwatering suggestions for side dishes that pair perfectly with these keto tuna cakes. 

Green salad

Serve your tuna patties alongside a fresh green salad featuring kale, spinach, and other mixed greens, which adds fiber and vitamins K and C to your meal. These nutrients are essential for maintaining strong bones, immune function, and blood clotting.

Toss salad with a light vinaigrette dressing for extra flavor and healthy fats.

Keto mac and cheese

Who says you can’t enjoy classic comfort food such as mac and cheese on a keto diet?

This keto mac and cheese recipe uses cauliflower as a base, blended with various cheeses to create a rich and creamy sauce guaranteed to satisfy any cravings.

Roasted Brussels sprouts

Brussels sprouts complement these patties perfectly, providing a healthy dose of fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins A and C. They also have a satisfying crunch that contrasts nicely with the tender texture of the tuna cakes.

Toss Brussels sprouts in olive oil, sea salt, and pepper before roasting for more flavor.

Stuffed portabella mushrooms

Stuff portabella mushrooms with a mixture of fried ground beef, onion, and cheese for a hearty keto-friendly side dish.

The mushroom’s meaty texture perfectly complements the low-carb tuna cakes, creating a unique take on the classic surf-and-turf.  

Keto zucchini fries

If you’re a potato fries fan, you’ll love these zucchini fries, which are the perfect side for tuna patties and provide a satisfying crunch.

Slice zucchini into thin strips and toss them in a mixture of almond flour, parmesan cheese, and seasonings before baking until crispy.

Low-carb garlic bread

This garlic bread recipe is a must-try for those who miss indulging in bread.

Made with almond flour and mozzarella cheese, this keto garlic bread is gluten-free and bursts with the rich flavors of fresh garlic and aromatic herbs.

Storage and reheating tips 

If you have leftovers, store the tuna patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Alternatively, you can freeze them for up to two months.

To reheat, place the patties in a preheated oven at 350 degrees F (177 degrees C) for ten minutes or until heated thoroughly.

You can also reheat these tuna cakes in an oiled pan on the stovetop over medium heat for three to four minutes on each side.

Key takeaways

These keto tuna patties are made with tuna, almond flour, and cabbage, creating a nutritious and satisfying meal rich in healthy fats and essential nutrients.

To minimize the risk of mercury exposure, opt for canned sockeye or pink Alaskan salmon and limit tuna intake to two to three servings per week. 

FAQ

1. Are tuna patties keto-friendly?

Yes, this tuna patties recipe is keto-friendly as it contains low-carb ingredients rich in healthy fats such as almond flour and tuna. 

However, other keto tuna cake recipes may differ, and it’s crucial to check the ingredients and carb count to stay within your daily net carb count and maintain ketosis. 

2. How many carbs are in tuna patties? 

This keto tuna cakes recipe contains only 12 grams of net carbs per serving, making it a fantastic low-carb option for those following a keto diet.

3. What side dish goes well with keto tuna patties? 

Side dishes like mixed greens, cauliflower mac and cheese, stuffed mushrooms, and keto garlic bread pair well with these keto tuna cakes.

4. What are good ways to use canned tuna? 

Canned tuna is a versatile ingredient that contains omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and other essential nutrients. In addition to making fish patties, canned tuna can be used in various dishes, such as salads, casseroles, dips, and keto sandwiches.

Sources

1. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34658044/