Are you ready to dive into the delicious world of Japanese cuisine? Today, we’re going to explore the delightful recipe of Tuna Mayo Onigiri. Onigiri, also known as rice balls, is a popular Japanese snack that has been enjoyed for centuries. It’s not just a meal; it’s a part of Japanese culture, often made for picnics, road trips, or school lunches.
The combination of fluffy, sticky rice and savory tuna mayo makes Tuna Mayo Onigiri a favorite among kids and adults alike. This tasty recipe is not only simple to make but also offers a fun way to enjoy rice in a portable form. You’ll find that it’s both satisfying and easy to customize, making it a perfect dish for everyone!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cooked sushi rice | 2 cups |
| Canned tuna (preferably in water) | 1 can (5 oz) |
| Mayonnaise | 2-3 tablespoons |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Nori (seaweed sheets) | 2-3 sheets |
| Soy sauce (optional) | for serving |
| Sesame seeds (optional) | for garnish |
Alternatives: If you don’t like tuna, you can substitute it with chicken, salmon, or even veggies! You can use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a healthier twist.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these easy steps to make your own Tuna Mayo Onigiri:
- Prepare the Rice: If you haven’t done so already, cook 2 cups of sushi rice according to the package instructions. Let it cool slightly until it’s warm, but not hot.
- Mix the Filling: Open the can of tuna and drain any excess liquid. In a bowl, mix the tuna with 2-3 tablespoons of mayonnaise and ½ teaspoon of salt. Adjust the amount of mayo to your taste.
- Shape the Rice Balls: Wet your hands with water to prevent sticking. Take a small amount of rice (about a palmful) and form it into a small triangle or oval shape. Make a small indentation in the center.
- Add the Filling: Place a spoonful of the tuna mayo mixture into the indentation you made. Then, cover it with more rice and mold it back into shape. Repeat this until all your ingredients are used.
- Wrap with Nori: Cut the nori sheets into strips and wrap them around the onigiri. This not only adds flavor but also makes it easy to hold!
- Serve: Enjoy your Tuna Mayo Onigiri as is, or drizzle a bit of soy sauce on top for added flavor. You can also sprinkle sesame seeds for more crunch!
Nutritional Information
Here is the nutritional value of Tuna Mayo Onigiri per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 230 | 11% |
| Protein | 10g | 20% |
| Carbohydrates | 30g | 10% |
| Fats | 10g | 15% |
| Sodium | 300mg | 13% |
| Fiber | 2g | 8% |
Tips and Tricks
– To enhance the flavor, try adding a bit of chopped green onion or a dash of soy sauce to the tuna mixture.
– If the rice is too sticky, wet your hands more to make shaping easier.
– Avoid overfilling the onigiri, as it can cause them to break apart.
– If you’re storing them for later, wrap them in plastic wrap to keep them fresh.
FAQs
1. Can I use brown rice instead of sushi rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice for a healthier option, but it may not stick together as well as sushi rice.
2. How long can I store Tuna Mayo Onigiri?
They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but they’re best eaten fresh.
3. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce, Tuna Mayo Onigiri is gluten-free!
4. Can I make onigiri without nori?
Absolutely! You can enjoy the rice balls without nori or try wrapping them in lettuce instead.
5. What other fillings can I use?
You can fill them with chicken salad, pickled veggies, or even avocado. The possibilities are endless!
6. Can I freeze Tuna Mayo Onigiri?
Yes, you can freeze them, but they’re best enjoyed fresh. If freezing, wrap tightly in plastic wrap.
7. Do I need to eat them cold?
No, you can enjoy Tuna Mayo Onigiri at room temperature, making them a great snack!
8. Is there a vegan option for this recipe?
Yes! Substitute tuna with mashed chickpeas or tofu mixed with vegan mayo.
9. How can I make them spicier?
Add a teaspoon of sriracha or wasabi to the tuna mixture for an extra kick!
10. Can I make onigiri in different shapes?
Definitely! Feel free to make them in any shape you like, such as circles or squares.
Now that you know how to make delicious Tuna Mayo Onigiri, gather your ingredients and start cooking! Enjoy the flavors of Japan right in your home.
