why make this recipe
Spicy Tuna Rice Balls are a perfect snack or meal option that brings bold flavors together in a fun, easy-to-eat form. They are tasty, filling, and great for any occasion, whether it’s a picnic, lunch at work, or a party. Plus, they’re simple to make and packed with protein, making them a healthy choice too!
how to make Spicy Tuna Rice Balls
Ingredients :
- 2 cups sushi rice
- 8 ounces fresh ahi tuna, diced
- 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise (preferably Kewpie)
- 1/2 cup rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- Nori sheets for wrapping
Directions :
- Rinse sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then cook according to package instructions.
- In a bowl, mix rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until dissolved; fold this mixture into the cooled rice.
- In a separate bowl, combine diced tuna with sriracha and mayonnaise.
- Wet your hands and take a handful of rice; flatten it, add a spoonful of tuna filling in the center, and mold it into triangles.
- Wrap the onigiri in nori sheets for added flavor and presentation.
- Serve with soy sauce or pickled ginger for dipping.
how to serve Spicy Tuna Rice Balls
Serve these rice balls as a snack or light meal. They are great on their own, but you can also pair them with soy sauce, pickled ginger, or even avocado slices for an extra touch. Enjoy them fresh or at room temperature for the best experience.
how to store Spicy Tuna Rice Balls
To store leftover Spicy Tuna Rice Balls, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They are best eaten within a day or two. If you want to prepare them in advance, keep the rice and tuna filling separate until ready to serve to maintain the quality.
tips to make Spicy Tuna Rice Balls
- Make sure to rinse the sushi rice thoroughly for the best texture.
- Adjust the amount of sriracha based on your spice preference.
- You can add chopped green onions or sesame seeds to the tuna mixture for extra flavor.
- Use gloves or wet hands while shaping the rice balls to prevent sticking.
variation
You can easily customize these rice balls. For a different flavor, try adding avocado or cucumber to the filling. You can also substitute the tuna with cooked shrimp, crab, or even vegetables for a vegetarian version.
FAQs
1. Can I use regular rice instead of sushi rice?
No, sushi rice is sticky and perfect for molding into balls. Regular rice won’t hold its shape as well.
2. How spicy are these rice balls?
The spice level depends on how much sriracha you add. You can start with less and adjust to make it milder or spicier.
3. Can I make these rice balls ahead of time?
Yes, but for the best taste and texture, it’s recommended to eat them within a day of making. Keep ingredients separate until serving for freshness.
Spicy Tuna Rice Balls
A flavorful and easy-to-make snack, these Spicy Tuna Rice Balls are packed with protein and make a great meal option for any occasion.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 cups sushi rice
- 8 ounces fresh ahi tuna, diced
- 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise (preferably Kewpie)
- 1/2 cup rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- Nori sheets for wrapping
Instructions
- Rinse sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then cook according to package instructions.
- In a bowl, mix rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until dissolved; fold this mixture into the cooled rice.
- In a separate bowl, combine diced tuna with sriracha and mayonnaise.
- Wet your hands and take a handful of rice; flatten it, add a spoonful of tuna filling in the center, and mold it into triangles.
- Wrap the onigiri in nori sheets for added flavor and presentation.
- Serve with soy sauce or pickled ginger for dipping.
Notes
Make sure to rinse the sushi rice thoroughly for the best texture. Adjust the amount of sriracha based on your spice preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Molding and Wrapping
- Cuisine: Japanese
- Diet: Pescatarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 rice balls
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 25mg