Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsLazy fishTuna Poppers Recipe

Tuna Poppers Recipe

Inspired by Lazy fish
Time30m
Serves4

Spicy tuna, jalapeño, cream cheese, tempura, eel sauce, spicy mayo, sriracha.

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Ingredients

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Filling

Tempura Batter

Sauces

For Frying

Method

Preparation of Filling

  1. 1

    Mix the Filling Ingredients

    In a mixing bowl, combine the drained canned tuna, softened cream cheese, finely chopped jalapeño, and sriracha. Mix until well combined and creamy. Set aside.

Preparation of Tempura Batter

  1. 2

    Make the Tempura Batter

    In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cold water, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt until you achieve a smooth batter. It should be slightly thick but pourable. Set aside for 10 minutes.

Assembling and Frying

  1. 3

    Prepare for Frying

    In a deep frying pan or pot, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (180°C).

  2. 4

    Shape the Poppers

    Using a spoon or your hands, take small portions of the tuna filling and shape them into balls or patties. Dip each shaped popper into the tempura batter, ensuring they are fully coated.

  3. 5

    Fry the Poppers

    Carefully drop the battered poppers into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 3-4 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Serving

  1. 6

    Prepare for Serving

    Once all poppers are fried, drizzle with eel sauce and serve with spicy mayo on the side for dipping. Optionally, you can add extra sriracha for a kick.

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