If you’re looking to excite your taste buds, look no further than the delightful world of Spicy Tuna Onigiri. This Japanese rice ball is not just a meal; it’s a flavor-packed experience that combines the creaminess of tuna with a fiery kick. Perfect for sushi lovers and adventurous eaters alike, these rice balls make a satisfying snack or a standout addition to any lunch box.
Moreover, making onigiri at home allows you to customize every aspect—from the spice level to the fillings. As you explore the vibrant textures and flavors of these delicious rice creations, you’ll discover why spicy tuna onigiri has carved out a special place in the hearts of food enthusiasts everywhere. Join us as we dive into the art of crafting this iconic dish!
What Makes This Rice Ball Special:
Spicy Tuna Onigiri stands out for its delightful fusion of flavor and texture, making it a beloved choice among rice ball enthusiasts. The base of this dish begins with perfectly cooked sushi rice, seasoned lightly to enhance its natural taste. What truly elevates this treat, however, is the spicy tuna filling, which infuses each bite with a kick of flavor. The gentle heat from the tuna is balanced with a touch of creamy mayonnaise, offering a rich contrast to the rice.
Moreover, what makes onigiri unique is its convenient shape, perfect for a snack on the go. If you’re a fan of incorporating tuna into your diet, you might enjoy our flavor-packed tuna and white bean salad, which also highlights tuna’s versatility. With every bite of Spicy Tuna Onigiri, you experience an explosion of taste, proving that simple ingredients can lead to remarkable culinary creations.
Ingredients for Spicy Tuna Onigiri:
To create a delicious batch of spicy tuna onigiri, gather the following ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked short grain rice (typically, 1 cup uncooked rice yields 3 cups cooked)
- ½ sheet nori (you may use 2 sheets for extra flavor)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black sesame seeds or regular toasted sesame seeds (optional)
- Water, to moisten rice paddle
Spicy Tuna Filling
- 5.29 oz canned tuna in oil (or water, if preferred)
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sriracha or your favorite hot sauce
This spicy tuna onigiri recipe provides an exciting fusion of flavors. You can customize the spiciness by adjusting the amount of sriracha. Additionally, consider serving these with other flavorful dishes, such as spicy salmon sushi bake, for a delightful meal. Assemble your onigiri quickly, ensuring the rice is slightly warm for easy molding. Enjoy a perfect snack anytime!
How to Prepare Spicy Tuna Onigiri:
To make delicious Spicy Tuna Onigiri, start with 3 cups of cooked short-grain rice, ideally prepared with a 1:1 ratio of rice to water. This usually requires about 1½ cups of uncooked rice. While the rice cools, prepare the spicy tuna filling. Drain a 5.29 oz can of tuna, preferably in oil for added richness. In a bowl, mix the tuna with 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise and 1 tablespoon of sriracha. Adjust the heat by adding more sriracha if desired. Once your rice is ready, season it with ½ teaspoon of salt for flavor.
Now it’s time to shape your onigiri. Wet your hands or a rice paddle with water to prevent sticking. Take a handful of rice, flatten it in your palm, and place a spoonful of the spicy tuna filling in the center. Mold the rice around the filling, shaping it into a triangle or ball. Optionally, sprinkle ½ teaspoon of black sesame seeds on top for a nutty finish. Wrap your onigiri with a ½ sheet of nori for extra flavor. For more inspiration on flavorful tuna recipes, check out this tuna salad with beans. For detailed guidance, visit Christie at Home’s spicy tuna onigiri blog for additional tips. Enjoy your homemade onigiri!
Serving Suggestions for Spicy Tuna Onigiri:
Spicy Tuna Onigiri makes a delightful snack or meal option, but serving it with the right accompaniments can elevate your dining experience. Pairing these rice balls with a fresh spring roll salad offers a refreshing contrast. The crunchy vegetables and zesty spicy ginger dressing in the salad complement the bold flavors of the onigiri perfectly. Additionally, you might consider serving them alongside soy-ginger tuna steaks for an exciting surf-and-turf twist.
To add an extra kick, a side of miso soup can balance the meal, providing warmth and heartiness. For those who enjoy a bit of sweetness, try serving the onigiri with a side of sweet and spicy pineapple chicken. This juxtaposition not only enhances flavor but also creates a visually appealing plate. Serve your Spicy Tuna Onigiri with any of these festive options for a well-rounded and flavorful meal that will impress your guests.
Variations :
When it comes to elevating your Spicy Tuna Onigiri, there are plenty of exciting variations to explore. For a twist, try adding avocado slices to your rice balls. The creamy texture complements the spicy tuna perfectly. Moreover, you can experiment with different spices. Consider mixing in some wasabi or sriracha for an extra kick.
Alternatively, if you’re a fan of salads, check out the Flavor-Packed Tuna and White Bean Salad. This delicious dish can inspire you to substitute white beans in your onigiri filling for a nutritious boost. Another option is to incorporate pickled vegetables, which add a zesty crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft rice.
Don’t hesitate to play around with other ingredients you love. The versatility of Spicy Tuna Onigiri makes it a canvas for creativity, allowing you to personalize it to suit your palate. Enjoy experimenting!
Storage Tips for Spicy Tuna Onigiri:
To preserve the freshness of your Spicy Tuna Onigiri, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Ideally, consume within 1-2 days to maintain taste and texture. If you’re looking for more delicious ways to enjoy tuna, try this Flavor-Packed Tuna and White Bean Salad for a delightful meal option!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What is Spicy Tuna Onigiri?
Spicy Tuna Onigiri is a flavorful Japanese rice ball, typically filled with a zesty mixture of fresh tuna, spicy mayo, and seasonings. It’s a delightful snack or meal that combines the textures of sticky rice and creamy fish, making it a popular choice for sushi lovers.
How do I make Spicy Tuna Onigiri?
To make Spicy Tuna Onigiri, prepare sushi rice and let it cool. Combine canned tuna with spicy mayo and seasoning, then form rice balls using your hands. Stuff them with the tuna mixture and shape them into triangles. For a more robust flavor, drizzle shoyu over the finished onigiri.
Can I customize my Spicy Tuna Onigiri?
Absolutely! You can customize your Spicy Tuna Onigiri by adding elements like avocado, cucumber, or pickled vegetables. For a twist, consider incorporating elements from my popular Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake recipe, where you can add creaminess and depth to your filling.
Is Spicy Tuna Onigiri healthy?
Spicy Tuna Onigiri can be a healthy option, especially if you use brown rice and limit the amount of spicy mayo. Tuna is rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which contribute to a balanced diet when consumed in moderation.
How do I store leftover Spicy Tuna Onigiri?
To store leftover Spicy Tuna Onigiri, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They are best consumed within 1-2 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Be cautious of soggy rice; eating them soon is recommended.
What can I serve with Spicy Tuna Onigiri?
Spicy Tuna Onigiri pairs well with various sides such as pickled vegetables, edamame, or a light salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it with my Flavor-Packed Tuna and White Bean Salad, which complements the rice balls beautifully with additional protein and fiber.
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Spicy Tuna Onigiri: Elevate Your Snack Game Today!
- Total Time: 50
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Spicy Tuna Onigiri is a delightful Japanese rice ball snack filled with a flavorful spicy tuna mixture. Perfect for lunch or a quick snack!
Ingredients
3 cups cooked short grain rice
½ sheet nori or 2 sheets of nori
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black sesame seeds or regular toasted sesame seeds
water to moisten rice paddle
5.29 oz canned tuna in oil
2 tablespoon mayonnaise
1 tablespoon sriracha
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine the canned tuna, mayonnaise, and sriracha to create the spicy tuna filling.
- Prepare the rice by seasoning it with salt and ensuring it’s slightly warm.
- Wet your hands or a rice paddle with water to prevent sticking, then take a portion of the rice and flatten it in your palm.
- Place a spoonful of the spicy tuna filling in the center of the rice.
- Mold the rice around the filling to form a triangular or oval shape.
- Wrap the onigiri with a piece of nori, and sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired.
- Serve immediately or pack for later enjoyment!
Notes
For best results, use freshly cooked short grain rice and allow it to cool slightly before handling. Canned tuna in oil is preferred for its flavor, but tuna in water can be used as well.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Dessert
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 onigiri
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
Keywords: Spicy Tuna Onigiri, rice ball, Japanese snacks, tuna recipes, spicy tuna