Holy Week Special: Cheat Meat Tuna Patties

It's officially the start of summer! This is a healthier, can't-believe-it's-meat version of your typical burgersteak. And if you're one hungry jack on a no-meat fast, these tuna patties can be done in no time.

For the patties:

2 pcs canned tuna in oil

1tsp dried oregano

1/2 tsp rosemary

1/2 tsp thyme

1 tsp black pepper

Turmeric

Extra virgin olive oil (or other veg. oil)

1/4 tsp juice of lemon or calamansi

Balsamic vinegar or soy sauce

Garlic (finely chopped)

Chives (finely chopped)

1 whole egg

1/2 cup flour

For the sauce:

1 part mustard

1 part soy sauce

2 parts ketchup

Drain the tuna and transfer to a bowl. I specifically used 50% less sodium canned tuna but the regular kind will do. I've tried adobo flavored canned tuna and the taste is stronger but really good.

Mix in the oregano, rosemary, thyme, black pepper, a dash of turmeric for color, and lemon juice. Then mix in several drops of balsamic vinegar or soy sauce, a capful of extra virgin olive oil and as much quantity of the garlic and chives as you like.

Add in the egg, mix, then add just enough flour so the mixture is slightly sticky.  Mix well.

Drizzle some evoo over a frying pan and turn the heat on high. Form heaping spoonfuls of the tuna mix and place into the hot pan to shallow fry. Flatten the patties a bit at the center. Allow to fry and do not lift or move the patties for 1 minute.

After about a minute the bottom will be cooked enough to safely lift off the pan without sticking. Flip the patties and turn the heat down to medium. Allow to cook for another 2 to 3 minutes or until golden brown. Transfer to paper towels.

To make a quick, no-fail burger sauce, mix together mustard, ketchup, and soy sauce.

Garnish the tuna patties with your burger sauce (slather on lots of it) and fresh basil, spinach, onion rings, or any garnish you like. Adding cheese is optional, as the sauce and herbs in the tuna will give enough flavor. I used focaccia buns but burger buns, panini or pandesal will work also. And hey, you can eat those sizzling tuna patties with rice - why not!

Makes 5 servings. Bon appetít!