Why Make This Recipe
Spicy Tuna Rice Balls are a delicious and fun way to enjoy a tasty snack. These rice balls are perfect for picnics, parties, or as a quick bite any time of the day. They are easy to make, require minimal ingredients, and are packed with flavor. Plus, you can customize them to suit your taste!
How to Make Spicy Tuna Rice Balls
Ingredients
- 2 cups sushi rice
- 2 1/2 cups water
- 1 can tuna, drained
- 2 tablespoons Kewpie mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
- Salt, to taste
- Nori (roasted seaweed), cut into strips
- Sesame seeds (optional)
- Green onions, chopped (optional)
Directions
- Rinse sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Combine rice and water in a rice cooker and cook according to manufacturer’s instructions.
- In a bowl, mix the drained tuna with Kewpie mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, and salt to taste.
- Once the rice is cooked, let it cool slightly.
- Wet your hands and take a small amount of rice (about a handful) and flatten it slightly.
- Place a spoonful of the spicy tuna mixture in the center.
- Mold the rice around the filling into a triangle shape.
- Wrap the onigiri with a strip of nori and sprinkle with sesame seeds or green onions if desired.
- Serve immediately as a snack or pack for a picnic.
How to Serve Spicy Tuna Rice Balls
Serve these rice balls fresh, either on their own or with a dipping sauce. They make a great snack for gatherings, lunchboxes, or as an appetizer. Feel free to add some sliced cucumbers or pickled vegetables on the side to complete the meal.
How to Store Spicy Tuna Rice Balls
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be kept for up to two days. However, for the best taste and texture, it’s recommended to eat them fresh.
Tips to Make Spicy Tuna Rice Balls
- Make sure to rinse the rice well; it helps in achieving the right texture.
- Adjust the spiciness of the filling by adding more or less sriracha sauce based on your preference.
- If you want to save time, use pre-cooked sushi rice available in stores.
- Wet your hands before handling the rice to prevent it from sticking.
Variation
You can switch up the filling by adding avocado, cucumber, or any leftover fish. Experiment with different sauces or spices to create your own version of these rice balls!
FAQs
1. Can I use regular rice instead of sushi rice?
While you can use other types of rice, sushi rice provides the best texture and stickiness for shaping the rice balls.
2. How do I make these rice balls vegetarian?
You can replace the tuna with avocado, cooked mushrooms, or a mix of veggies and tofu for a delicious vegetarian option.
3. Can I freeze Spicy Tuna Rice Balls?
Yes, you can freeze them. Just ensure they’re well-wrapped in plastic wrap and stored in an airtight container. Thaw them in the fridge before eating or reheating.
Spicy Tuna Rice Balls
Ingredients
For the rice
- 2 cups sushi rice Rinse well before cooking.
- 2.5 cups water
For the filling
- 1 can tuna, drained Use canned tuna packed in water or oil.
- 2 tablespoons Kewpie mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce Adjust to taste.
- Salt Add to taste.
For assembly
- Nori (roasted seaweed), cut into strips
- Sesame seeds (optional)
- Green onions, chopped (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- Rinse sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- Combine rice and water in a rice cooker and cook according to manufacturer’s instructions.
Filling
- In a bowl, mix the drained tuna with Kewpie mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, and salt to taste.
Assembly
- Once the rice is cooked, let it cool slightly.
- Wet your hands and take a small amount of rice (about a handful) and flatten it slightly.
- Place a spoonful of the spicy tuna mixture in the center.
- Mold the rice around the filling into a triangle shape.
- Wrap the onigiri with a strip of nori and sprinkle with sesame seeds or green onions if desired.
- Serve immediately as a snack or pack for a picnic.