Tuna Pea Wiggle Recipe

Tuna pea wiggle is a delightful dish that brings together the flavors of flaky tuna, tender peas, and a creamy white sauce.

This recipe has deep roots in the northeastern United States, catering to the tastes of residents who enjoy the combination of savory and earthy flavors in their meals.

With a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you’ll be able to whip up this satisfying dish in no time.

The beauty of tuna pea wiggle lies in its versatility.

While the classic recipe calls for serving it over toasted bread, there are numerous variations to explore, such as adding cheese serving it over biscuits, potatoes, or noodles.

No matter how you choose to serve it, the comforting blend of tuna, peas, and sauce will leave your taste buds delighted.

In this article, we will provide you with a tried and tested recipe for tuna pea wiggle, guiding you through each step to ensure a perfect result.

You’ll also find helpful tips for customizing the dish to your liking, making it a delightful addition to your weeknight meal rotation or a perfect choice for weekend brunch.

How To Make Tuna Pea Wiggle

Ingredients List

For this Tuna Pea Wiggle recipe, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons margarine or butter
• 3 cups milk
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 can (approx. 7 oz) of fancy oil-packed or chunk light tuna, drained
• 1 cup of peas, frozen or fresh
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-step process

Step 1

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the 2 tablespoons of margarine or butter.

Allow the margarine to melt completely.

Gradually pour 2 cups of milk into the saucepan, stirring continuously to ensure thorough mixing.

Continue heating the mixture, but be careful not to let it boil.

Step 2

As bubbles begin to form around the edges of the pan, reduce the heat as required.

In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of milk with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch.

Ensure the mixture is smooth and lump-free.

Step 3

Slowly pour the cornstarch and milk mixture into your saucepan, stirring continuously.

This will help create a white sauce for your Tuna Pea Wiggle.

Keep stirring and cooking until the sauce thickens.

Step 4

Once the sauce has achieved your desired consistency, add your drained tuna and peas to the saucepan.

Mix thoroughly to combine all the ingredients.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Allow the mixture to cook for a few more moments so that it thickens slightly more and the flavors meld together.

Serve your Tuna Pea Wiggle over toast or crackers, and enjoy this classic 1950s dish!

Side Dishes for Tuna Pea Wiggle

Tuna Pea Wiggle, a delicious comfort food with a funny name, pairs well with various side dishes.

In this section, I will introduce you to some side dishes that complement the flavors of Tuna Pea Wiggle.

Potato chips:

Adding a crunchy texture to your meal, potato chips can provide just the right contrast to the creaminess of the Tuna Pea Wiggle.

Opt for thick-cut or kettle-cooked chips for an even better crunch.

Tuna on toast:

If you’re looking for an alternative way to serve your Tuna Pea Wiggle, try spooning it over a piece of toast.

This combination creates a hearty and satisfying meal to enjoy.

Enjoy your meal!

Ingredients Substitutes

Black Pepper Substitutes

Black pepper is a common seasoning in tuna pea wiggle, but if you prefer a milder taste or need a different spice, white pepper is a suitable alternative.

It offers a similar flavor profile without dominating the dish.

Alternatively, you can experiment with other spices like paprika or a dash of cayenne pepper if you’re looking to add a bit of heat to your meal.

How To Store Tuna Pea Wiggle

Tuna Pea Wiggle is a delicious and comforting dish, but if you have leftovers, it’s important to store them properly to maintain their freshness and flavor.

Here are some storage methods to consider:

Refrigerating Tuna Pea Wiggle

To store Tuna Pea Wiggle in the refrigerator, place it in an air-tight container with a lid.

It is best to use a shallow container for faster cooling.

Ensure that the dish has cooled down to room temperature before placing it in the refrigerator.

Tuna Pea Wiggle can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Tuna Pea Wiggle

If you want to store Tuna Pea Wiggle for a longer period, consider freezing it.

First, let the dish cool to room temperature.

Transfer it to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.

If using containers, make sure they are completely sealed, and if using freezer bags, squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing them.

Label the bags or containers with the date and store them in the freezer. Frozen Tuna Pea Wiggle can be stored for up to 3 months.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

Overcooking the Flour

Remember to cook the flour well, but not to the point where it starts turning brown or burns.

Overcooking the flour will result in a burnt taste and ruin the consistency of the sauce.

Keep stirring the mixture constantly over medium heat to get a smooth and thickened sauce without any lumps.

Not Draining The Canned Ingredients

Tuna and peas often come canned in brine or liquid, and many might forget to drain them.

Not draining the canned tuna and peas can cause the dish to become watery.

Ensure that you drain and discard the excess liquid from the cans before adding them to the sauce mixture.