The mock fish made with potatoes and tuna is a striking dish that is prepared with few ingredients and in a few simple steps. A classic of holiday cooking based on a tuna mousse combined with boiled potatoes. With the resulting mixture and a pinch of creativity, we form a mock fish to decorate as we like, for example with carrots and pickles, but we can also use olives, lettuce, peas, or other vegetables. With very few ingredients, we create an appetizer that is beautiful to look at and at the same time very tasty!
It is an easy recipe, great to prepare in advance even with children, leaving room for creativity. Perfect for holiday buffets, but also to enjoy on many other occasions!
Also discover:
- Difficulty: Very Easy
- Cost: Very Economical
- Rest time: 1 Hour
- Preparation time: 25 Minutes
- Cooking methods: No Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Seasonality: All Seasons, Christmas
Ingredients to prepare Mock Fish
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled, cooked, boiled
- 9 oz tuna in oil
- 2 pickles in vinegar
- 1 tbsp capers in salt
- 4 tbsps mayonnaise
- to taste salt
- to taste carrots
- to taste pickles in vinegar
- to taste lettuce
Tools to prepare Mock Fish
- Potato Masher
- Blender
- Bowl
- Tray
How to prepare Mock Fish
Peel the boiled potatoes and mash them while they are still hot, using a potato masher. Alternatively, we can mash them with the prongs of a fork until a smooth consistency is achieved.
In the blender jug, place the well-drained tuna, pickles in vinegar, capers (thoroughly rinsed under running water to remove the salt), and mayonnaise. Blend until a smooth and uniform cream is obtained.
Combine the tuna cream with the mashed potatoes and mix well until a soft but moldable mixture is obtained. Taste and adjust the salt only if necessary.
Shape the mock fish on a tray: first, using the back of a spoon, then smooth the surface with a smooth-bladed knife. We can shape the body and tail simply or more detailed.
Decorate the mock fish with carrot slices and pickles for the scales and eye, lettuce as a base.
And it’s ready!
Storage
The mock fish can be stored in the refrigerator, well covered, for 24–48 hours. It is advisable to fully decorate it just before serving, especially if using fresh vegetables.
Tips
For a perfect consistency, the potatoes must be well-dried after cooking.
If the mixture is too soft, we can add a bit more mashed potatoes.
Serve it very cold: after resting in the fridge, it will be even more compact and flavorful.
Variations
Without mayonnaise: replace it with cream cheese or Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
With vegetables: add chopped peas, olives, or carrots to the mixture.
Single servings: make small individual fish for buffets or parties.
FAQ (Questions and Answers)
Can I prepare the mock fish in advance?
Yes, in fact, it is recommended: resting in the refrigerator improves texture and flavor.
Can it be frozen?
No, it’s better to avoid it: potatoes and mayonnaise change texture once thawed.
Is it suitable for children?
Absolutely yes! It’s delicate, fun, and perfect to decorate together.
