Mariana Islands-style Tuna Rissole

Ingredients

In this Mariana Islands adaptation, the traditional Brazilian rissole is transformed by incorporating local ingredients and flavors. The original recipe typically uses ground meat, while this version features flaked tuna as the star ingredient. The addition of coconut milk, ginger, and grated cassava gives it a distinct island flair, while lime juice and cilantro add a refreshing touch. We alse have the original recipe for Rissole, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (300g) flaked tuna 2 cups (300g) flaked tuna
• 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk
• 1 cup (150g) grated cassava 1 cup (150g) grated cassava
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon turmeric 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Juice of 1 lime Juice of 1 lime
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
• 20 round empanada wrappers 20 round empanada wrappers
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 8g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 20g, 2g
• Protein: 15g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the flaked tuna, coconut milk, grated cassava, ginger, garlic, turmeric, paprika, salt, black pepper, lime juice, and cilantro. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. 2.
   Place a spoonful of the tuna mixture onto the center of each empanada wrapper. Fold the wrapper in half and seal the edges by pressing with a fork.
3. 3.
   Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or skillet over medium heat. Fry the rissoles in batches until golden brown and crispy on both sides. Remove from the oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
4. 4.
   Serve the Mariana Islands-style Tuna Rissoles hot and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Tuna — Ensure the tuna is cooked and flaked before mixing it with the other ingredients.
• Cassava — Make sure to grate the cassava finely to achieve the desired texture.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of chili flakes to the tuna mixture.
• Serve the rissoles with a side of tangy soy sauce or a tropical fruit salsa for extra flavor.
• If you can't find empanada wrappers, you can use puff pastry or spring roll wrappers as a substitute.
• To make the rissoles healthier, you can bake them in the oven instead of frying. Brush them with a little oil and bake at 200°C (400°F) until golden brown.

Serving advice

Serve the Mariana Islands-style Tuna Rissoles as an appetizer at a tropical-themed party or as a light lunch alongside a fresh salad. They are best enjoyed hot and crispy.

Presentation advice

Arrange the golden-brown rissoles on a platter and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro leaves. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus flavor.