Description
Spicy Tuna Onigiri
Spicy Tuna Onigiri is a beloved Japanese snack that’s perfect for an on-the-go treat, breakfast, or light meal! These triangular rice balls are stuffed with creamy, spicy tuna mayo, wrapped in crispy nori, and sprinkled with sesame seeds. Popular in Japanese convenience stores, they’re easy, versatile, and satisfying. Make them at home with just a few simple ingredients, and enjoy the comforting flavors of Japan wherever you are!
3 cups cooked short-grain rice
½ sheet nori
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black sesame seeds (optional)
Water (for moistening rice paddle)
Spicy Tuna Filling:
5.29 oz canned tuna in oil
2 tbsp mayonnaise
1 tbsp sriracha sauce
Directions:
1. Mix freshly cooked rice with salt and keep warm.
2. Mix strained canned tuna, mayo, and sriracha.
3. Divide rice and tuna filling into 4 portions.
4. Shape rice into triangles, add filling, and wrap with nori.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 212 per serving
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Rice: Cook your short-grain rice according to package instructions. While still hot, transfer it to a large bowl and gently fold in the ½ teaspoon of salt. Cover to keep warm.
2. Make the Filling: Drain the oil from the canned tuna. In a separate bowl, combine the tuna, mayonnaise, and sriracha sauce. Mix until creamy and well-incorporated.
3. Portion Ingredients: Divide the warm rice into four equal portions. Do the same with the spicy tuna mixture.
4. Shape the Onigiri: Moisten your hands with water to prevent sticking. Take one rice portion and flatten it in your palm. Create a small well in the center and place one portion of the tuna filling inside. Carefully cup your hand to fold the rice over the filling, sealing it completely.
5. Form the Triangle: Gently press and shape the rice ball into a triangle, rotating it between your hands to compact it and define the edges.
6. Add Nori & Finish: Cut the ½ sheet of nori into four long strips. Wrap a strip around the base of each triangle. Optionally, sprinkle the exposed rice with black sesame seeds.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Spicy Tuna Onigiri immediately for the best texture, with the nori still crisp. They are a complete snack on their own, but pair wonderfully with a light miso soup or a simple side of pickled ginger (gari) or cucumber sunomono salad. For a bento box, include them alongside tamagoyaki (Japanese rolled omelet) and some steamed vegetables.
How-to Summary
In short, make seasoned rice, mix tuna with mayo and sriracha, form rice around the filling into triangles, and wrap with a strip of nori. Keep your hands wet to handle the rice easily.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use long-grain rice instead? No, short-grain or sushi rice is essential for its sticky texture, which holds the onigiri together.
How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. The nori will soften; for best texture, add the nori strip just before eating.
Can I make these ahead for a party? Yes, shape the onigiri and store them separately from the nori strips. Assemble with nori right before serving to maintain crispness.
What can I substitute for sriracha? Any chili sauce or paste works, like gochujang (Korean chili paste) or a simple mix of cayenne pepper and a dash of vinegar.
Is the tuna in oil necessary? Tuna in oil yields a richer, moister filling, but tuna in water works if well-drained. You may want to add a touch more mayo.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using cold rice: It won’t stick together properly. Always shape while the rice is warm.
- Over-packing the rice: Handle gently to avoid dense, hard onigiri.
- Adding too much filling: This can cause the rice ball to break apart. Use a moderate amount.
- Wrapping nori too early: The moisture from the rice will make it soggy. Wrap just before eating.
- Not wetting your hands: This leads to a messy, sticky process. Keep a bowl of water nearby.
Conclusion
Homemade Spicy Tuna Onigiri brings the delightful taste of a Japanese convenience store classic right to your kitchen. With this simple process and easy-to-find ingredients, you can create a satisfying, portable snack that’s endlessly customizable. Mastering the technique of shaping the perfect triangle is part of the fun. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself making these flavorful rice balls again and again for quick lunches, picnics, and lunchboxes.