Print

Easy Tuna Rice Balls Recipe

Easy Tuna Rice Balls Recipe

4.8 from 29 reviews

Easy Tuna Rice Balls are a quick and delicious Japanese-inspired snack combining flavorful canned tuna, creamy Japanese mayonnaise, roasted seaweed, and perfectly cooked sushi rice. These compact rice balls are simple to make, satisfying to eat, and great for lunch, picnics, or casual meals.

Ingredients

Scale

Rice Mixture

  • 2 cups prepared sushi rice
  • 150 grams canned tuna
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 23 tablespoons Japanese mayonnaise (Kewpie style)
  • 1 to cups torn roasted seaweed

Instructions

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the prepared sushi rice, sesame oil, Japanese mayonnaise, canned tuna, and torn roasted seaweed. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly until well combined. If the mixture seems dry or lacks creaminess, gradually add more mayonnaise until you achieve the desired consistency.
  2. Shape the Mixture: Press the combined mixture down flat in the bowl. Using a spatula, cut the rice mixture into 8 triangular portions, similar to slicing a pizza. Alternatively, estimate the amount of rice mixture needed for each ball without precise measuring.
  3. Form the Rice Balls: With clean hands or gloves, scoop up each portion and gently roll it into a tight ball to ensure it holds its shape firmly. Repeat until all portions are shaped.
  4. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the tuna rice balls immediately for the best texture and flavor. Enjoy them as a snack or as part of a meal, possibly alongside pickled vegetables or soy sauce for dipping.

Notes

  • Be sure the sushi rice is slightly warm or at room temperature for easier mixing and shaping.
  • Adjust mayonnaise quantity to your taste for creaminess and moisture.
  • Use clean hands or disposable gloves to prevent rice from sticking and to keep the rice balls hygienic.
  • Can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours but is best consumed fresh.
  • Optionally add a sprinkle of sesame seeds or chopped green onions for garnish.

Nutrition

Keywords: tuna rice balls, onigiri, Japanese snack, sushi rice balls, easy rice balls, tuna snack, no-cook rice balls