Canned Tuna + Mayonnaise + Macaroni + Sugar + Chips!? You'll be Surprised

What!? Tuna and sugar together? 

That's probably my first reaction before trying this snack. My host family in Minnesota used to make this chips and tuna mayo dips. As odd as it sounds, this is actually a perfect example of sweet and savory combo. Years passed, I can't recall the exact amount used for each ingredient, but my taste memory guide me through the process.

Tuna mayo macaroni and chips -

Ingredients (makes about 1 cup)?

• 150 grams/about 5.3 oz macaroni pasta
• 100 grams/1 canned tuna
• 5 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 2 to 3 teaspoons sugar
• Some salted thick cut wavy chips
• Some salted thick cup 

How?

Salt a pot of water and bring to a boil. Cook the macaroni according to package instruction, but don't cook till al dente this time. Overcook the pasta a couple more minutes. The macaroni should be on the softer side but still with a slightly chewy texture. When ready, drain well and transfer to a big mixing container.

Open the can and drain out the liquid from the tuna, add to the mixing container. Also add some mayonnaise, sugar, and a tiny pinch of salt.

Mix well. Take a breadth and taste it, you'll be amazed that canned tuna works so well with creamy mayo and sugar. Adjust the flavors. If the mixture doesn't seem salty enough, instead of using more salt, maybe try to open up second canned tuna and add to the mixture. Do keep in mind that the chips are salty too.

Serve with thick cut chips on the side. Use the chips to scoop out the macaroni dips, enjoy this unexpected sweet and savory snack.

Nostalgic indeed. This tuna mayo chips definitely is a walk down memory lane for me. Don't be shy on the sugar, sweeter taste can further help enhancing the savory note from the tuna. Plus a stronger tasting dip is always welcomed when serving with chips right?


Other recipe using canned tuna:

• Origini recipe: shio kombu and tuna mayo rice balls