Imagine a dish that transports you to the sun-drenched coastlines of the Mediterranean with just one bite - our Tuna Balls in Wine Sauce are that culinary magic! This incredibly simple yet sophisticated recipe transforms humble canned tuna into an elegant meal that looks like it came straight from a gourmet restaurant kitchen. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or treat yourself to a luxurious weeknight meal, these wine-infused tuna balls will revolutionize your cooking repertoire and make you feel like a Mediterranean chef in your own home.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 can of tuna, drained
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- 1 cup white wine
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Drain the tuna thoroughly and place it in a large mixing bowl, breaking it into small flakes with a fork.
- Add breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, beaten egg, salt, and pepper to the tuna. Mix ingredients gently but thoroughly until well combined.
- Using clean hands, form the mixture into small round balls approximately 1-inch in diameter. Ensure they are compact and hold together well.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and lightly grease the surface with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Carefully place the tuna balls in the skillet, allowing them to brown evenly on all sides. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning gently to maintain shape.
- Once balls are golden brown, pour in the white wine and vegetable broth. Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer.
- Cover the skillet and let the tuna balls cook in the liquid for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing them to absorb the wine sauce flavors.
- Check seasoning and adjust salt and pepper if needed. The sauce should reduce and become slightly thickened.
- Remove from heat and let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional fresh parsley if desired.
Tips
- Drain the tuna completely to prevent soggy balls - use a fine mesh strainer for best results.
- When mixing ingredients, use a light hand to keep the texture tender and prevent dense, tough balls.
- Ensure your tuna balls are compact but not over-compressed to maintain a delicate texture.
- Use medium heat when browning to achieve a perfect golden crust without burning.
- Choose a dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc for the most complementary flavor profile.
- Let the tuna balls rest briefly after cooking to allow flavors to settle and sauce to thicken.
- Fresh parsley makes a huge difference - use it generously for bright, fresh flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 60mg
