Print

Japanese Tuna Onigiri

Japanese Tuna Onigiri
Print Recipe

Japanese Tuna Onigiri are delicious and authentic Japanese rice balls filled with flavorful tuna mixed with creamy mayonnaise and soy sauce. Easy to make in under 20 minutes, these savory snacks are perfect for lunchboxes, quick bites, or picnic treats. They combine lean protein and sticky sushi rice for a balanced, comforting meal that captures the essence of traditional Japanese comfort food.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups short-grain Japanese sushi rice
  • 1 can (about 5 oz) tuna packed in water or oil, drained
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (for rice seasoning)
  • 2–3 nori sheets (seaweed), cut into strips (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Rice: Rinse the short-grain rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Cook the rice according to the package instructions using a rice cooker or stovetop method. Once cooked, let it cool slightly but keep it warm for easier shaping.
  2. Mix the Tuna Filling: Drain the canned tuna thoroughly and place it in a bowl. Add mayonnaise and soy sauce, then gently mix until well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed for the perfect savory balance.
  3. Shape the Onigiri: Wet your hands with water mixed with a pinch of salt to prevent sticking. Take a handful of warm rice and flatten it in your palm. Place a spoonful of the tuna mixture in the center, then carefully mold the rice around the filling into a neat triangle or ball shape.
  4. Wrap with Nori (Optional): If using nori sheets, wrap a strip around the base of each onigiri, pressing gently so it sticks. This adds flavor and makes the onigiri easier to handle.
  5. Serve or Store: Enjoy the Japanese Tuna Onigiri immediately, or wrap each in plastic wrap for lunchboxes or later snacking.

Notes

  • Use warm rice to make shaping easier and prevent sticking.
  • Wet your hands with salted water to keep rice from sticking and add flavor.
  • Press the onigiri gently to retain a fluffy texture inside.
  • Add nori just before eating to keep it crisp and avoid sogginess.
  • Use short-grain sticky rice for the best texture and shape holding.

Nutrition

Keywords: Japanese tuna onigiri, tuna rice balls, Japanese snack, sushi rice, onigiri recipe, quick Japanese recipe, healthy Japanese snack

Find it online: https://gourmetglazing.com/japanese-tuna-onigiri/