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how to make tuna onigiri
Carmen Spillette

Crispy Onigiri With Tuna

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Onigiri with Tuna is a delightful Japanese dish with a spicy twist! These spicy tuna onigiri are crispy on the outside and bursting with umami flavor on the inside. Perfect for those who crave a quick meal or want to whip up some delicious snacks, they are so tasty and fun to make. 
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course: Rice Cooker
Cuisine: Rice Cooker

Ingredients
  

For the Tuna Filling:
  • 1 can tuna drained
  • 3 tablespoon Kewpie mayo
  • 1 tablespoon sriracha
Pinch of salt and pepper (to taste)For the Sushi Rice:
  • 1 cup sushi rice
  • 1 cup water
  • 2 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • For Frying:1 tablespoon avocado oil

Method
 

Prepare the Sushi Rice:
  1. Rinse the sushi rice three times or until the water runs clear.
  2. Cook the rice in a rice cooker or on the stovetop following package instructions.
  3. Once cooked, fluff the rice, add the rice vinegar, and gently mix.
  4.  
Make the Tuna Filling:
  1. In a bowl, combine the drained tuna, Kewpie mayo, sriracha, salt, and pepper.
  2. Mix well, adjusting the mayo or sriracha to taste. Set aside.
  3.  
Assemble the Onigiri:
  1.  
  2. If Using an Onigiri Mold: Add a layer of rice to the mold, then place 1 tablespoon of the tuna filling in the center, followed by more rice. Press down with the mold to form a compact triangle.
  3.  
  4. If Using Hands (No Mold): Wet your hands with water to prevent sticking. Place a scoop of rice in your palm, add 1 tablespoon of the tuna filling, then top with more rice. Shape into a triangle, or use plastic wrap for easier handling.
  5.  
Pan-Fry the Onigiri:
  1. Heat the avocado oil in a pan over medium heat.
  2. Fry each onigiri for about 3 minutes per side, or until crispy and golden.
  3.  
  4. Enjoy your Tuna Yaki Onigiri warm and crispy!

Notes

  • Don't have a mold: Wet Your Hands and Use Plastic Wrap: Sushi rice can be very sticky! If you’re shaping by hand, keep your hands damp to prevent sticking. Or, use a piece of plastic wrap to shape the onigiri easily and mess-free.  
  • Get the Rice Right: Rinsing sushi rice until the water is clear removes excess starch, helping you achieve that ideal sticky-but-not-mushy texture.   
  • Don’t Rush the Frying: Fry the onigiri over medium heat, giving each side about 3 minutes to get golden and crispy. This adds a delicious, toasty layer that makes yaki onigiri extra satisfying!

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