Sometimes, the best meals come from what’s left in the fridge — and this tuna sisig is proof. With a few pantry staples and a quick stir in the pan, I turned yesterday’s leftover tuna filling into a sizzling, savory dish that deserves a spotlight on your dining table.
What is Tuna Sisig?
Tuna Sisig is a pescatarian twist on the Filipino classic “Pork Sisig.” Traditionally made with chopped pig’s face, this version uses tuna for a healthier and more convenient alternative. It’s rich, spicy, creamy, and perfect for rice — or as pulutan for your next inuman night!
Ingredients I Used
Here’s what I had and what I added to complete the dish:
Leftover:
- Tuna filling (from sandwiches I made earlier — seasoned with salt, pepper, and a bit of mayo)
Add-ons:
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp mayonnaise (optional but makes it creamier)
- 2 eggs
- 1 tbsp calamansi juice (or use lemon/lime if unavailable)
- 1–2 pcs green chili or siling haba, sliced
- Crushed chicharon or leftover crispy fish skin (for texture)
- Oil for sautéing
Cooking Instructions
- Sauté aromatics: In a hot pan, sauté onion in a bit of oil until translucent and aromatic.
- Add tuna filling: Toss in the leftover tuna mixture. Stir well to mix flavors.
- Season & spice: Add green chili slices, a squeeze of calamansi juice, and a bit more salt and pepper if needed.
- Add egg & creaminess: Push the mixture to the side of the pan. Crack in an egg and stir it lightly. Combine everything once partially cooked. Add mayonnaise for that signature sisig creaminess.
- Finish with crunch: Sprinkle some crushed chicharon or crispy toppings to give it bite.
- Serve hot: Plate it with steamed rice and garnish with more chili and calamansi halves for added punch.
How It Turned Out
This tuna sisig had that perfect balance of creamy, tangy, spicy, and umami — and the crispy bits brought it over the top. Paired with rice, it made for a satisfying meal that didn’t feel like “just leftovers.”
Check out the photos from my actual meal above — proof that resourceful cooking doesn’t mean boring.
Why You Should Try This
- Budget-friendly: No food wasted — reimagine leftovers!
- Quick: Done in under 15 minutes.
- Flexible: Adjust the spice level, add veggies, or even top with cheese.
- Great for baon or meal prep: Just reheat and enjoy.
Next time you have leftover tuna from sandwiches or pasta, don’t toss it! With just a few extra ingredients, you can whip up a dish that feels brand-new and restaurant-worthy. Tuna Sisig is an easy win in the kitchen and a fantastic way to champion sustainable home cooking.
