Tuna Onigiri : These Japanese rice balls are lovingly shaped and filled with a savory tuna mixture with the perfect balance of flavors – creamy mayo, a hint of soy sauce, and wasabi or sesame seeds, wrapped in crisp nori and packed with umami goodness.
What is Tuna Onigiri?
Onigiri, or Japanese rice balls, are a beloved culinary icon in Japan. They come in various shapes, flavors, and fillings, and Tuna Onigiri is among the most popular variations. Typically, the filling is made with canned tuna mixed with mayonnaise and sometimes soy sauce, giving it a rich and creamy texture.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Tuna Onigiri
Creating perfect Tuna Onigiri involves a few key tips that make all the difference:
- Choose the Right Rice: Use short-grain Japanese rice (often labeled as sushi rice). Its sticky texture holds the rice ball together.
- Season Your Rice: Lightly season the cooked rice with salt or a sprinkle of furikake (Japanese rice seasoning) for added flavor.
- Keep Your Hands Wet: To prevent rice from sticking, keep a small bowl of water nearby and wet your hands while shaping the onigiri.
- Use Plastic Wrap: For beginners, shaping onigiri with plastic wrap makes the process easier and less messy.
- Seal with Nori: Wrap the onigiri in nori (seaweed) just before serving to keep it crisp.
Variations of Tuna Onigiri
Tuna Onigiri is wonderfully adaptable. Here are some variations to try:
- Spicy Tuna Onigiri: Mix tuna with Japanese mayonnaise, sriracha, and a dash of soy sauce for a spicy kick.
- Tuna and Wasabi Onigiri: Add a small amount of wasabi paste to the filling for a zesty twist.
- Tuna with Pickled Vegetables: Include pickled daikon or cucumbers for extra crunch and tanginess.
- Tuna and Cheese Onigiri: Combine tuna with shredded cheese for a fusion-inspired treat.
- Grilled Tuna Onigiri: Lightly grill the rice balls after shaping to create a crispy, golden crust.
How to Serve Tuna Onigiri
Tuna Onigiri is incredibly versatile and can be served in various settings:
- Bento Box: Pack Tuna Onigiri with a side of tamagoyaki (Japanese omelet), pickled vegetables, and fruit for a balanced meal.
- Snack Time: Enjoy it as a quick, portable snack while traveling or during a busy day.
- Breakfast: Pair it with a bowl of miso soup and a small salad for a traditional Japanese breakfast.
- Picnic Food: Onigiri is a popular choice for outdoor meals, thanks to its compact and easy-to-eat nature.
How to Store Tuna Onigiri
Proper storage is key to maintaining the freshness of Tuna Onigiri:
- Refrigeration: If you’re not eating them immediately, wrap each onigiri tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator. However, note that refrigerated rice can harden over time.
- Reheating: To restore the soft texture of the rice, reheat onigiri briefly in the microwave (without the nori) and then wrap in fresh nori.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze onigiri without the nori. Thaw and reheat as needed, then add fresh nori before serving.
Recipe FAQs
What type of tuna is best for Tuna Onigiri?
Canned tuna in water or oil works well. For a richer flavor, opt for tuna packed in oil.
Can I make Tuna Onigiri ahead of time?
Yes, Tuna Onigiri can be made a few hours in advance. Keep them wrapped and refrigerated, and add the nori just before serving to maintain its crispness.
How do I prevent the rice from sticking to my hands?
Wet your hands with water and sprinkle them with a pinch of salt. This not only prevents sticking but also adds a touch of seasoning.
What can I use instead of nori?
If you’re not a fan of seaweed, you can leave it out or use lettuce leaves as a wrap for a different texture and flavor.
Is Tuna Onigiri gluten-free?
The basic recipe is gluten-free, but ensure that the soy sauce or mayonnaise used is certified gluten-free if required.
Tuna Onigiri
Tuna Onigiri : These Japanese rice balls are lovingly shaped and filled with a savory tuna mixture with the perfect balance of flavors - creamy mayo, a hint of soy sauce, and wasabi or sesame seeds, wrapped in crisp nori and packed with umami goodness.
Ingredients
Nori Sheets
- 4 sheets, cut in half (or 7 onigiri wrappers)
Seasoned Rice:
- 4 cups hot, freshly cooked sushi or medium-grain rice
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp granulated sugar
- ½ tsp fine salt
- 2 tbsp furikake (optional, but adds flavor!)
Spicy Mayo Tuna:
- 4 oz light canned tuna, drained (1 regular can)
- 1½ tbsp Kewpie mayo
- 1 tbsp Sriracha (adjust to taste)
Instructions
Prepare the Rice:
- Mix rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until dissolved.
- Season the hot rice with this mixture and sprinkle in furikake if using.
- Fluff the rice gently and cover with a damp towel to keep it moist.
Make the Spicy Tuna:
- Combine the drained tuna with Kewpie mayo and Sriracha in a bowl.
- Mix well until creamy and evenly blended.
Shaping the Onigiri with a Mold:
- Lay half a sheet of nori shiny side down.
- Place a triangle mold on the nori and press in ¼–⅓ cup of seasoned rice, forming a "bowl."
- Add 1 tbsp spicy tuna filling and cover with another ¼–⅓ cup of rice.
- Use the mold’s press to firmly shape the onigiri. Release from the mold and fold the nori around the rice ball.
Shaping Onigiri Without a Mold:
- Lay cling wrap on your work surface and spread ½–⅔ cup of rice in the center.
- Add 1 tbsp tuna filling on top, then bring the rice together using the cling wrap, twisting it to form a ball.
- Flatten slightly and shape into a triangle with your hands.
- Place the rice triangle on a sheet of nori, folding the nori to wrap the onigiri.
Nutrition Information
Yield
7Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 297Total Fat 15gSaturated Fat 2gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 12gCholesterol 19mgSodium 692mgCarbohydrates 31gFiber 2gSugar 6gProtein 10g
Easy Shrimp Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Tuna Onigiri is a delicious and customizable snack that brings a taste of Japan to your kitchen. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, it’s a fantastic recipe for beginners and seasoned cooks alike. Whether you enjoy the classic version or experiment with creative variations, these rice balls are sure to delight.
Try these other tuna recipes:
