Quick and Easy Spicy Tuna Onigiri Recipe

Spicy Tuna Onigiri is a flavorful and satisfying Japanese rice ball, stuffed with a creamy spicy tuna mayo filling and wrapped in crispy roasted seaweed. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a light meal, or a portable lunch, this simple recipe will have you enjoying a delicious, homemade onigiri in just 20 minutes. With minimal ingredients and a few easy steps, you can make this savory treat that combines comfort, convenience, and a burst of spicy flavor. Let’s dive into how you can make this tasty dish at home!

Why You’ll Love Spicy Tuna Onigiri

This Spicy Tuna Onigiri recipe is perfect for those who need a quick and flavorful meal or snack. It’s not only fast to make but also highly customizable and packed with protein from the tuna. The soft, sticky rice and creamy tuna mayo blend harmoniously with the crisp roasted seaweed, making each bite a satisfying experience. Whether you’re short on time, craving a snack, or preparing for a picnic, this dish checks all the boxes for convenience, taste, and nutrition.

Ingredients for Spicy Tuna Onigiri

To prepare your Spicy Tuna Onigiri, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Cooked Short-Grain Rice: The base of your onigiri. This sticky rice helps the ball maintain its shape.
• Nori: Roasted seaweed sheets that add a savory crunch and hold everything together.
• Salt: Season the rice to enhance flavor.
• Black Sesame Seeds (optional): These add a touch of nuttiness and texture to the onigiri.
• Water: To moisten your rice paddle, making the rice easier to handle.

Spicy Tuna Filling Ingredients:

• Canned Tuna (in oil): For a smooth, rich texture. Using tuna in oil gives the filling more flavor.
• Japanese Mayo (Kewpie mayo): The creamy base that makes the spicy tuna filling delicious and smooth.
• Sriracha Sauce: Adds that spicy kick that makes this onigiri stand out. You can adjust the heat to your preference.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions:

If you’re looking for different flavors or need a substitution, here are a few alternatives:

• Canned Salmon: For a different take on the filling, you can swap tuna with canned salmon.
• Vegan Mayo: For a plant-based version, use vegan mayonnaise in place of regular mayo.
• Other Hot Sauces: If you prefer a milder heat, opt for a less spicy hot sauce or omit it for a non-spicy version of the onigiri.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Spicy Tuna Onigiri

Making Spicy Tuna Onigiri is easy and quick. Follow these steps to create your own delicious rice balls:

1. Prepare the Rice: Transfer freshly cooked rice into a large bowl and season it with salt. Mix well and keep it warm by covering it with a lid. Alternatively, use cold, leftover rice and reheat it in the microwave for 1-3 minutes until warm.
2. Prepare the Tuna Filling: Open the canned tuna, strain it well using a fine sieve to remove excess liquid. Use a fork to press out as much liquid as possible. In a separate small bowl, combine the tuna with Japanese mayo and sriracha sauce, then mix until smooth and creamy.
3. Shape the Rice: Spread a large sheet of plastic wrap on a clean surface. Moisten a rice paddle or silicone spatula with water to prevent the rice from sticking. Divide the rice into four equal portions and form each portion into a circle, about ½-inch thick.
4. Add the Filling: Scoop one portion of the spicy tuna mixture into the center of each rice circle.
5. Form the Onigiri: Lift the plastic wrap’s corners and twist to form a rice ball, pushing the filling into the center. Flatten the rice ball gently, then shape it into a triangle using the L-shape of your thumb and index finger.
6. Wrap with Nori: Cut a sheet of nori into strips. Place one strip on the base of each rice triangle, with the rough side facing the rice. Garnish with black sesame seeds for an added crunch.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Your Spicy Tuna Onigiri is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve it fresh and enjoy its savory flavors.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Spicy Tuna Onigiri

• Fresh Rice is Best: Using freshly cooked rice yields the best results, as it’s more sticky and holds the shape better than cold rice.
• Avoid Dry Rice: If using leftover rice, reheat it until it’s steaming hot to keep it sticky. Dry rice will not hold its shape.
• Shape Firmly: When forming the rice ball, make sure to press firmly to ensure it doesn’t fall apart later.
• Nori Storage: Keep nori sheets in their packaging until you’re ready to assemble. Exposure to air can make them soggy and affect their crispness.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

Spicy Tuna Onigiri can be paired with a variety of dishes to create a complete meal. Here are some great pairing ideas:

• Side Dishes: Miso soup, Japanese crab corn salad, or a simple Japanese salad with ginger dressing complement the onigiri perfectly.
• Protein Options: Serve with grilled shrimp tempura, chicken katsu, or teriyaki tofu for a more filling meal.
• Other Rice Dishes: Try pairing with other rice-based dishes like Katsudon or Omurice for a comforting meal.
• Noodle Options: Yaki Udon or Udon Carbonara also make great companions.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you want to prepare Spicy Tuna Onigiri ahead of time, store the rice and tuna filling separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to four days. When ready to assemble, simply reheat the rice and proceed with the instructions. However, avoid pre-assembling with the nori, as it will become soggy.

Why Spicy Tuna Onigiri is Perfect for Any Occasion

Spicy Tuna Onigiri is versatile and can be enjoyed at any time. Whether you’re having a quick breakfast, packing a lunch, or prepping for a picnic, these rice balls are easy to make and offer a satisfying bite. Plus, they’re customizable for different spice levels or dietary preferences, making them perfect for anyone.

Incorporating seafood into your diet has its benefits, too. Tuna is an excellent source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for heart health. The addition of nori provides essential vitamins and minerals, making this dish not only tasty but also nutritious.

Spicy Tuna Onigiri combines simplicity and flavor in one compact, easy-to-eat snack or meal. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a Japanese delicacy that’s perfect for any occasion.

Conclusion

Spicy Tuna Onigiri is an incredibly simple yet flavorful dish that combines the richness of tuna, the creaminess of mayo, and the satisfying texture of sticky rice. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a portable lunch, or a light meal, this recipe has got you covered. With its ease of preparation and customization options, it’s a perfect choice for busy days or anytime you want a delicious, homemade bite. Plus, its vibrant flavors and the crispy nori make every bite an enjoyable experience.

So, next time you have some leftover rice or want to try your hand at a classic Japanese snack, give Spicy Tuna Onigiri a try. It’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!

FAQ

More Relevant Recipes

• Easy Japanese Style Spicy Tuna Salad Recipe
• Best Tuna Melt Recipe – How to Make a Tuna Melt Like a Pro
• Spicy Tuna Salad: A Perfect Blend of Flavor and Spice

Print