If you love Filipino food but don’t have much time to cook, Tuna Sisig is a perfect choice. This dish turns a simple can of tuna into a delicious, flavorful meal in just five minutes.
It’s a lighter version of the traditional pork sisig but still has the same tasty, creamy, and slightly spicy flavor that everyone loves. Whether you are a student, an office worker, or someone who just wants a fast meal, this recipe is easy, budget-friendly, and very satisfying.
What Is Tuna Sisig?
Tuna Sisig is a modern version of the famous Filipino sisig dish, usually made with chopped pork. In this version, we use canned tuna instead of pork. It’s faster to cook and much healthier.
The dish combines sautéed tuna with onions, garlic, chili, and mayonnaise, making it creamy, savory, and tangy. You can enjoy it with rice, bread, or even as a snack with friends.
Ingredients You Will Need
You don’t need fancy ingredients for this recipe. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Canned tuna (flakes in oil) | 1 can (180g) | Any brand works |
| Onion | 1 small | Finely chopped |
| Garlic | 2 cloves | Crushed or minced |
| Chili | 1–2 pieces | Optional for spice |
| Soy sauce | 1 tablespoon | For savory flavor |
| Calamansi or lemon juice | 1 tablespoon | For tangy taste |
| Mayonnaise | 2 tablespoons | For creamy texture |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | Adjust as needed |
| Cooking oil | 1 tablespoon | For frying |
| Egg (optional) | 1 piece | For extra richness |
How to Cook Tuna Sisig in 5 Minutes
- Drain the tuna. Open your canned tuna and remove the liquid. This will make sure the sisig isn’t too watery.
- Cook the aromatics. Heat one tablespoon of oil in a pan. Add chopped onions and garlic, then cook for about one minute until soft and fragrant.
- Add the tuna. Mix in the drained tuna and cook for about two minutes until it becomes slightly crispy.
- Season the dish. Add soy sauce, calamansi or lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well.
- Add mayonnaise. Turn off the heat and mix in mayonnaise for a creamy and rich texture.
- Optional egg topping. If you want, add one egg on top while the dish is still hot and mix it quickly.
Your delicious Tuna Sisig is ready to serve!
How to Serve It
You can serve this dish in several ways:
- With steamed rice for a full meal
- On bread or crackers for a light snack
- As a pulutan (bar food) for get-togethers
- On a sizzling plate with egg for that restaurant-style look
You can also add bell peppers, green onions, or a little corn to make it colorful and more filling.
Why People Love This Dish
People enjoy Tuna Sisig because it is:
- Quick to cook: Ready in just 5 minutes.
- Healthy: Lower in fat than pork sisig.
- Budget-friendly: Uses inexpensive canned tuna.
- Tasty and flexible: You can adjust the spice and creaminess easily.
It’s a great recipe for beginners who want to make a Filipino classic in less time.
Tips for Best Taste
- Use tuna flakes in oil instead of water for richer flavor.
- Don’t overcook the tuna; it can become dry.
- Adjust the chili based on how spicy you want it.
- Add crushed chicharon (pork rinds) for extra crunch if desired.
Tuna Sisig is proof that a delicious Filipino meal doesn’t need to take hours to cook. In just five minutes, you can create a dish that’s flavorful, creamy, and comforting.
It’s perfect for anyone looking for a quick lunch, dinner, or snack. Whether you’re eating alone or with family, this easy recipe will always be a winner at the table.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned tuna?
Yes. Just cook the fresh tuna pieces for a few minutes before mixing them with the other ingredients.
How long can I keep leftover Tuna Sisig?
Store it in the refrigerator for up to two days in a closed container and reheat before eating.
Can I skip mayonnaise?
Yes. You can replace it with a small amount of butter or cream for a different texture.
