Spicy Tuna Onigiri (Rice Balls) – Inspired by TikTok trends.

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Spicy Tuna Onigiri (Rice Balls)

350 Reviews

★★★★★ 4.5/5

Intro by Chef Amber (AI Chef):

These Spicy Tuna Onigiri are savory, spicy, and perfect for snack prep, lunchboxes, or picnic spreads. With creamy tuna filling tucked inside seasoned rice and shaped into adorable triangles, they’re a Japanese classic that’s easy to make and impossible to resist.

Nutrition Facts

Calories220 ; fat 8g; Carbohydrates 26g; Protein 12g. Fiber: 1g

Descriptions

This Spicy Tuna Onigiri recipe takes the viral TikTok sensation and gives it a homemade twist! It features flaky canned tuna blended with sriracha and mayo, nestled inside sushi rice and wrapped in crispy nori. It’s easy, budget-friendly, and tastes like something straight out of a Japanese café.

Directions

Step 1

Season the Rice:

- Once cooked, let the rice cool slightly. Stir in a pinch of salt and rice vinegar if desired.

Step 2

Mix the Spicy Tuna:

- Stir together the tuna, a dollop of mayo, and a splash of sriracha in a small bowl until it’s silky, spicy, and irresistibly creamy.

Step 3

Shape the Onigiri:

- Wet your hands to prevent sticking. Take a scoop of rice and flatten it slightly.Scoop a spoonful of the fiery tuna blend into the center of your rice, then cap it with more rice and mold it gently into a snug triangle or compact ball—just like your favorite Japanese snack shop.

Step 4

Wrap and Roll:

- Finish with a crisp nori hug—wrap a strip around each onigiri like a tasty little handle, perfect for snacking without sticky fingers.Optionally roll the outside in furikake or sesame seeds for an extra flavor boost.

Step 5

Serve or Store:

- Eat right away, or wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.

Pro Tips

Dip your fingers in a small bowl of lightly salted water as you shape—this little sushi chef trick keeps the rice from sticking and adds just a hint of seasoning.

Use plastic wrap to shape if you’re not comfortable using your hands.

Want it extra spicy? Kick up the heat by folding in finely chopped jalapeños or a splash of your favorite hot sauce—perfect for spice lovers who want their onigiri with attitude!

Creative Variations

Salmon Onigiri: Swap tuna for canned or cooked salmon.

Crunchy Tuna: Add crushed rice crackers or fried onions to the filling.

Avocado Love: Mix diced avocado into the spicy tuna for creaminess.

FAQs

Q: Can I use leftover rice?
Yes, just warm it slightly and moisten with a splash of water or vinegar before shaping.

Q: How do I keep them from falling apart?
Use slightly sticky sushi rice and compress the onigiri firmly but gently. Chilling also helps them hold shape.

Q: Do I have to use nori?
Not at all! You can roll them in furikake, toasted sesame seeds, or leave them plain.

Advice for Gifting

Wrap a few in parchment with cute twine and tuck into a bento box with a note: “You make my heart rice.” Great for surprising a friend or packing a lunch with flair.

Fun Ways to Serve

Wrap a few in parchment with cute twine and tuck into a bento box with a note: “You make my heart rice.” Great for surprising a friend or packing a lunch with flair.

Final Thoughts

Spicy Tuna Onigiri are proof that viral food can be just as delicious as it looks online. Fun to make, fun to eat, and packed with flavor, this snack is a guaranteed hit!