Tuna Potato Falafel: The Culinary Frankenstein That Stole Our Hearts (and Appetites)

Tuna Potato Falafel, hä? I found the most outrageous recipe in a local newspaper, and now I’m hooked. This may sound crazy, but… imagine traditional falafel, but instead of chickpeas, they swapped out mashed potatoes and added canned tuna for an extra twist. Sounds crazy? Trust me when I say this culinary Frankenstein is a flavor bomb that will make you an instant addict.

Why This Tuna Falafel Works

• Unexpected ingredients: Mashed potatoes are neutral substitute for chickpeas, while tuna brings savory depth—proof that weird kitchen experiments can be pure magic.
• Local newspaper vibes: Gives it a charming, “discovered gem” feel.

Step-by-Step Preparation of Tuna Potato Falafel

Tuna Potato Falafel: The Culinary Frankenstein That Stole Our Hearts (and Appetites)

Difficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

20

minutes

Total time

25

minutes

This recipe makes 18-20 Tuna Potato Falafel balls, perfect for serving 4 people. Enjoy!

Ingredients

• 1 ¼ cups (10.5 oz / 300g) potatoes, boiled in skin and peeled

• 1 small can (6.7 oz / 190g) canned tuna (preferably in olive oil), drained

• ½ medium onion, halved

• 2 garlic cloves

• 1 ½ tsp. dried oregano (½ tbsp.)

• 1 ½ tsp. dried parsley (½ tbsp.)

• 1 tsp. dried dill

• 1 tsp. turmeric

• 1 tsp. coriander powder

• ¼ tsp. white pepper

• ¼ tsp. salt

• 1 large egg

• ⅔ – 1 ¼ cups (75g – 150g) breadcrumbs

• Vegetable oil for frying

Directions

• Blend everything together – Add the boiled and peeled potatoes, drained tuna, halved onion, garlic cloves, oregano, parsley, dill, turmeric, coriander, white pepper, and salt to a food processor. Pulse until you get a smooth mixture.
• Add egg and breadcrumbs – Crack in the egg and add ⅔ cup (75g) breadcrumbs. Blend again until fully combined. If the mixture is too soft, gradually add more breadcrumbs until it’s firm enough to hold its shape but still slightly sticky.
• Shape the falafels – Use a tablespoon to scoop out portions of the mixture. Roll them into small balls with your hands, then coat each ball in additional breadcrumbs for extra crispiness.
• Fry the falafels – Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan to 340°F (170°C). Carefully drop the falafel balls into the hot oil and fry for about 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy.
• Drain & serve – Transfer the falafels to a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil. Serve hot with homemade tortilla, dill dip, or a classic French salad.

Serving Suggestions for Tuna Falafel

The versatility of Tuna Falafel allows it to be paired with various accompaniments:

• Green is healthy :D: These Tuna-Potato Falafels are incredibly versatile and pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. One of my absolute favorite ways to serve them is with amazing brussels sprouts with honey from The Spiffy Cookie. The crispy, golden falafels combined with the sweet and slightly caramelized Brussels sprouts create the perfect balance of flavors.
• Serve Falafel Inside the Homemade Focaccia: Slice a piece of warm Rosemary Focaccia, recipe from The Fresh Cooky, in half to create a sandwich-style base, then spread a layer of dill dip, tzatziki, garlic aioli or amazing Cottage Cheese Blue Cheese Dressing from Crafty Cooking Mama, for extra flavor. Add a few crispy falafel balls, lightly smashed if desired, and top with fresh arugula, sliced cucumbers, and tomatoes for a refreshing crunch. Finish with a drizzle of lemon juice or honey to enhance the flavors, creating a perfectly balanced and delicious sandwich.
• Homemade Tortilla and Dill Dip: Serving the falafel with warm, soft tortillas and a refreshing dill dip creates a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The creaminess of the dill dip complements the crispy exterior and tender interior of the falafel.
• Classic French Salad: Alternatively, pairing the falafel with a classic French salad—comprising fresh greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette—offers a light and refreshing contrast, making for a well-balanced meal.
• Mediterranean: Serve the falafel with a tangy tzatziki sauce, hummus, or a zesty lemon tahini dressing. Pairing with different salads, such as a Mediterranean couscous salad, can also provide a refreshing contrast.

Nutritional Benefits of Tuna Falafel

Incorporating tuna into the falafel not only enhances its flavor but also boosts its nutritional value:

• Rich in Protein: Tuna is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle development and overall bodily functions.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: The inclusion of tuna provides heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, known for their anti-inflammatory properties and benefits to cardiovascular health.
• Vitamins and Minerals: The added herbs and spices contribute various vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C from parsley and antioxidants from turmeric and paprika.

Tips for Perfecting Your Tuna Falafel

To ensure your Tuna Falafel turns out perfectly every time, consider the following tips:

• Achieving the Ideal Texture: Ensure the mashed potatoes are smooth and free of lumps, as this forms the base of the mixture.
• Balancing Flavors with Spices: Adjust the quantity of spices to suit your personal preference. Incorporate herbs like cilantro or basil for a different aromatic profile. Spices such as cumin or sumac can also be added to introduce new dimensions of flavor.

Canned Tuna Potato Falafels Nutrition Table

Enjoy your Tuna Potato Falafels! 😋

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