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Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice

Irresistibly Crunchy Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice Bites at Home

Delightful Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice Bites topped with creamy Ahi tuna and jalapeño, a perfect appetizer.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Cooling Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 50 minutes
Servings: 4 bites
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: Japanese
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Crispy Rice
  • 2 cups Sushi Rice Sushi-grade rice is best for flavor.
  • 1/3 cup Rice Vinegar Essential for flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Granulated Sugar Should dissolve easily.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Adjust to taste.
  • 2 cups Neutral Oil Vegetable or canola oil recommended.
For the Topping
  • 8 oz Sushi-Grade Ahi Tuna Buy within 24 hours for safety.
  • 2 stalks Scallions Chives can be used as a substitute.
  • 1 small Jalapeño Swap for a milder pepper if desired.
  • 1 tablespoon Black Sesame Seeds White sesame seeds can be used as well.
For the Spicy Mayo
  • 1/2 cup Kewpie Mayonnaise Regular mayonnaise can be used.
  • 1 tablespoon Sriracha Adjust for desired spice level.
  • 1 tablespoon Ponzu Sauce Soy sauce can be a substitute.

Equipment

  • Rice cooker
  • deep skillet

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. Begin by rinsing your sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear; this usually takes about 3-4 rinses.
  2. Cook the rice according to the package instructions, typically in a rice cooker or a pot with a lid, adding the appropriate amount of water, and allow it to steam for 18-20 minutes until fluffy and tender.
  3. In a small saucepan, combine rice vinegar, granulated sugar, and kosher salt. Heat over low heat, stirring gently until the sugar and salt dissolve completely.
  4. Once your sushi rice is done cooking, transfer it to a large bowl and gently fold in the prepared sushi vinegar while it's still warm.
  5. Line a square or rectangular dish with plastic wrap and press the sushi rice into an even layer about 1-inch thick. Cover the top with additional plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3 hours.
  6. While the rice is chilling, finely dice the sushi-grade Ahi tuna into small cubes, ensuring a clean and fresh cut. Combine the chopped tuna with sliced scallions in a bowl.
  7. In a separate bowl, whisk together Kewpie mayonnaise, Sriracha, and ponzu sauce until smooth and well combined.
  8. Once your rice has chilled, remove it from the refrigerator and cut it into rectangles or squares, about 2 inches in size.
  9. Heat a generous amount of neutral oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Fry the rice pieces for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
  10. Top each crispy rice bite with a spoonful of the spicy tuna mixture, sprinkle black sesame seeds on top, and finish off with a slice of fresh jalapeño.

Nutrition

Serving: 3bitesCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 12gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 350mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 1gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor. Keep the spicy tuna topping separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness.

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