Creamy Tuna Toast Delight
This nostalgic recipe takes you back to a simpler time, where comfort food was crafted with love and simplicity. My mother, a master of stretching meals for a family of six, created this creamy tuna gravy that is cherished through generations. Perfectly paired with golden toast, this dish brings warmth and satisfaction in each mouthful. Although it may not win any beauty contests, a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a side of vibrant English peas elevates it to a delightful meal worthy of any table.
2
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
tuna in water
12 ounces (drained)
butter
1/4 cup (unsalted)
salt
to taste
pepper
to taste
sweet milk
1 cup
toast
4 slices (lightly toasted)
flour
1 tablespoon (all-purpose)
Instructions
1
Begin by melting the unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
2
Once melted, gradually whisk in the all-purpose flour until the mixture is smooth and bubbly, creating a roux.
3
Slowly pour in the sweet milk while continuously whisking to avoid lumps. Continue to stir until the mixture thickens and bubbles softly.
4
Gently fold in the drained tuna, and season with salt and pepper to taste, letting the mixture simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5
Remove from heat and add more milk if needed to achieve a pourable consistency.
6
Serve generous ladles of the creamy tuna gravy over warm toasted bread and garnish with a sprig of fresh parsley for presentation. For added color and flavor, serve alongside a side of perfectly cooked English peas.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Tuna Toast Delight?
Creamy Tuna Toast Delight is a nostalgic comfort food dish consisting of a creamy tuna-based gravy served over warm, golden toasted bread.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to make 2 servings.
What are the main ingredients for the tuna gravy?
The main ingredients include 12 ounces of drained tuna in water, 1/4 cup of unsalted butter, 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour, and 1 cup of sweet milk.
How do I prepare the tuna before adding it to the recipe?
The tuna should be drained of its water before being folded into the cream sauce.
What is the first step in making the gravy?
The first step is to melt the unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over low heat.
How do I create a roux for this recipe?
You create a roux by gradually whisking all-purpose flour into the melted butter until the mixture is smooth and bubbly.
What type of milk should I use?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of sweet milk, which typically refers to standard whole or 2% cow's milk.
How can I prevent lumps in the tuna gravy?
To prevent lumps, slowly pour in the milk while continuously whisking the flour and butter mixture.
What seasoning is recommended for this dish?
The dish is seasoned simply with salt and pepper to taste.
How long should the tuna simmer in the sauce?
After folding in the tuna, let the mixture simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
What should I do if the gravy is too thick?
If the gravy is too thick, you can add more milk after removing it from the heat to achieve a pourable consistency.
How is this dish typically served?
It is served by ladling the creamy tuna gravy over slices of warm toasted bread.
What are some suggested garnishes for presentation?
A sprig of fresh parsley is recommended to add a touch of color and presentation.
What side dishes pair well with Creamy Tuna Toast Delight?
Vibrant English peas are a traditional and complementary side dish for this meal.
Is this recipe considered budget-friendly?
Yes, it is described as a budget-friendly recipe that uses simple pantry staples to create a filling meal.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While the recipe calls for unsalted butter, margarine can be used as a substitute, though it may slightly alter the flavor.
What type of bread is best for the toast?
Any bread can be used, though a sturdy white or sourdough bread holds up well under the weight of the gravy.
Is this recipe quick to make?
Yes, it is tagged as a quick meal and an easy recipe, ideal for a fast lunch or dinner.
What is the texture of the finished sauce?
The sauce should be thick, creamy, and pourable, with chunks of tender tuna throughout.
Can I add other vegetables to the gravy?
Yes, though not in the original instructions, many people enjoy adding peas or chopped onions into the gravy for extra flavor.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The original recipe is not gluten-free as it uses all-purpose flour and bread, but it can be adapted using gluten-free flour and bread.
Can I use tuna in oil instead of tuna in water?
You can, but it is recommended to drain the oil thoroughly to prevent the gravy from becoming too greasy.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 7 ingredients in total: tuna, butter, salt, pepper, milk, toast, and flour.
Why is this recipe described as nostalgic?
It is a traditional family recipe passed down through generations, often used to stretch ingredients to feed a large family.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While best served fresh, the gravy can be made ahead and reheated gently, though you may need to add a splash of milk to restore the consistency.
What category of food does this fall into?
It falls under seafood and comfort food categories.
Is the tuna cooked in this recipe?
Canned tuna is already cooked; the recipe simply heats it through within the simmering gravy.
How much flour is needed for the thickening?
The recipe requires 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour.
Can I use whole wheat toast?
Yes, whole wheat toast is a healthy and flavorful alternative for the base of this dish.
What is the preparation for the butter?
The butter should be unsalted and melted over low heat at the start of the cooking process.