Tuna Patties with Dill Sauce: A Delicious and Easy Seafood Recipe

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As a child, I remember the aroma of my grandmother’s cooking wafting through the house—a heady mix of fresh ingredients and heartwarming nostalgia. Her tuna patties, golden and crisp, were my absolute favorite.

I watched in awe as she magically transformed canned tuna into savory patties, her hands a blur of practiced ease. She’d then whip up a creamy dill sauce, its tangy notes a perfect counterpart to the patties.

Today, I’m thrilled to share this cherished recipe, Tuna Patties with Dill Sauce, a timeless classic that never fails to bring a smile to my face.

Get ready for some culinary nostalgia with these tantalizing Tuna Patties w/ Dill Sauce.

History of the Dish

The story of Tuna Patties with Dill Sauce begins with the humble origins of the tuna casserole, which first popped up in the Pacific Northwest in 1930.

This dish was born out of necessity, utilizing accessible ingredients like canned tuna and mushroom soup, and it quickly cemented its place in the American kitchen, especially during the war years, due to ingredient scarcity. Over time, the tuna casserole evolved and spread, shedding its Pacific Northwest roots and becoming a staple in Middle America and the Midwest.

On the other side of the culinary equation, we have the dill sauce. Dill, a staple culinary herb in central and eastern Europe, has been widely used to flavor various dishes, from soups to pickles and, more importantly, sauces.

In the Czech Republic, white dill sauce made of cream, butter, flour, vinegar, and dill is served with boiled eggs, potatoes, dumplings, and boiled beef. German cuisine incorporates dill as a seasoning for fish and countless other dishes, imparting its unique flavor which complements an array of ingredients.

The fusion of these two distinct culinary traditions—American tuna patties and European dill sauce—has resulted in a delicious and savory dish that continues to be loved worldwide. It’s a testament to the power of culinary creativity, a blend of different cultures and flavors that have evolved over time into the Tuna Patties with Dill Sauce we enjoy today.

What Can You Serve With Broccoli Casserole?

Pairing Tuna Patties w/ Dill Sauce with the right side dishes can elevate your dining experience to new culinary heights. For a refreshing crunch, try a vibrant Greek salad bursting with ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, olives, and tangy feta.

If you’re after comfort, creamy mashed potatoes or a rich potato gratin can provide a delightful contrast to the savory tuna patties. Roasted asparagus or Brussels sprouts, lightly seasoned and drizzled with olive oil, would add a hearty, wholesome touch.

For a grain option, consider a fragrant couscous salad dotted with dried fruit and fresh herbs. Or, for an unexpected twist, serve the patties atop a bed of zucchini noodles for a low-carb delight. With these variations, your Tuna Patties w/ Dill Sauce meal can be a unique culinary adventure every time!

Ingredients

Sauce

• Mayo – forms the creamy base for both the sauce and patties; it adds a luscious, rich flavor.
• Plain Greek Yogurt – a healthier alternative to cream, it lends a tangy note to the sauce.
• Sour Cream – contributes to the creamy consistency of the sauce while adding a slight tang.
• Dry Dill – a key ingredient in the sauce, it imparts a unique, herby taste.
• Lemon Juice – a fresh, citrusy element in the sauce and patties that helps brighten the flavors.
• Salt & Pepper – basic seasoning to enhance all the other flavors.

Patties

• Oil – for frying, it gives the patties a crispy, golden exterior.
• Eggs- act as a binder for the patties, helping all the ingredients stick together.
• Canned Tuna – the star of the show, it should be well-drained to prevent sogginess.
• Bread Crumbs – give the patties structure and a nice, crunchy texture.
• Parmesan Cheese – adds a deliciously salty and slightly nutty flavor to the patties.
• Dijon Mustard – introduces a bit of tang and spiciness to the patties.
• Green Onions – their mild, sweet flavor complements the tuna and adds a burst of color.
• Dry Basil and Parsley – these herbs infuse the patties with a delightful, earthy aroma.
• Garlic Powder and Onion Powder – add a depth of flavor, enhancing the savory notes in the patties.
• Salt & Pepper – basic seasoning to enhance all the other flavors.

Preparation Instructions

Combine your mayo, plain Greek yogurt, sour cream, dry dill, and lemon juice in a medium-sized bowl. Mix these ingredients together until they’re well-blended, creating a rich and creamy sauce. Once you’re done, place this in the refrigerator to chill, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Next, start by whisking your eggs in a large bowl. This will provide a great binder for your patties.

To your whisked eggs, add and stir in the drained tuna, lemon juice, mayo, Dijon mustard, Parmesan cheese, a cup of the bread crumbs, diced green onions, and your seasonings – dry basil, dry parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

With your mixture ready, shape it into patties, then coat each with the remaining bread crumbs.

Heat your oil in a skillet over medium heat. When you add your patties, you want the oil hot enough to sizzle but not so hot that it smokes or burns them.

Carefully place your patties into the hot skillet for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until they’re crispy and brown.

Once your patties are cooked to your liking, remove them from the skillet and serve them with your chilled dill sauce to enjoy!

How to Switch This Up a Bit

Give your Tuna Patties a Mediterranean twist by adding chopped olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese to the mix. Replace the dill sauce with garlicky tzatziki for a refreshing contrast.

Alternatively, go Asian-inspired by adding finely chopped ginger, scallions, and a dash of soy sauce to your patties, and pair with a tangy sesame-ginger dipping sauce.

Swap bread crumbs for ground flaxseed or almond flour for a low-carb version. The possibilities for reinvention are endless!

FAQs

How do I store leftover Tuna Patties and Dill Sauce?

After your patties have cooled down, transfer them into an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. The dill sauce can be stored in a separate container. Pop both into the fridge, and they’re good for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze these tasty Tuna Patties?

Absolutely! Ensure the patties are fully cooled, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll chill out happily in your freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in the oven.

The dill sauce is separated in the fridge – can I fix it?

Sure thing! If your dill sauce has separated, a quick whisk or a blitz in a blender should bring it back to its creamy self. If it’s still stubborn, add a spoonful of yogurt or mayo while whisking to help it emulsify.