Name: Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice: 10 Irresistible Flavor Bombs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups (280g) cooked sushi rice; 2 tablespoons (30ml) rice vinegar; Vegetable oil (for frying, about 2 tablespoons / 30ml); 6 ounces (170g) sashimi-grade fresh tuna; 3 tablespoons (45ml) mayonnaise (Japanese Kewpie preferred); 1-2 teaspoons (5-10ml) sriracha; 1 teaspoon (5ml) soy sauce; 1 tablespoon (6g) green onions, finely chopped; 1 teaspoon (2g) toasted sesame seeds; Optional: thinly sliced cucumber for serving

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Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice has become a favorite for many sushi lovers and appetizer enthusiasts. This delectable dish features crispy fried sushi rice cakes topped with creamy, spicy sashimi-grade tuna. Not only does it serve as a perfect starter for any occasion, but it also satisfies your craving for bold flavors and delightful textures. The combination of crunchy rice and zesty tuna makes it an irresistible treat that you won’t want to miss out on!

Why You’ll Love This Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice

There are countless reasons to love this Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice. First, its unique texture will have your mouth watering. Second, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy fresh, sashimi-grade tuna. Third, this recipe is easy to make, making it ideal for both novice and experienced home cooks. Fourth, with its Japanese cuisine roots, you can impress guests with a touch of authenticity. Fifth, it’s gluten-free, catering to various dietary preferences. Sixth, it doubles as a fun snack with a spicy twist, giving you a crunchy tuna rice snack option that’s far from ordinary!

Ingredients for Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice

Gather these items:

1 ½ cups (280g) cooked sushi rice
2 tablespoons (30ml) rice vinegar
Vegetable oil (for frying, about 2 tablespoons / 30ml)
6 ounces (170g) sashimi-grade fresh tuna
3 tablespoons (45ml) mayonnaise (Japanese Kewpie preferred)
1-2 teaspoons (5-10ml) sriracha
1 teaspoon (5ml) soy sauce
1 tablespoon (6g) green onions, finely chopped
1 teaspoon (2g) toasted sesame seeds
Optional: thinly sliced cucumber for serving

How to Make Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice Step-by-Step

Step 1: Cook 1 ½ cups (280g) sushi rice according to package instructions. Transfer to a bowl and gently fold in 2 tablespoons (30ml) rice vinegar using a rice paddle or wooden spoon. Spread out to cool to room temperature.
Step 2: Wet your hands with water and shape the cooled rice into small, tight patties about 2-3 inches wide and ½ inch thick. Set aside on a tray (makes 8-10 rice cakes).
Step 3: Dice 6 ounces (170g) sashimi-grade tuna into small cubes. In a bowl, combine tuna with 3 tablespoons (45ml) mayonnaise, 1-2 teaspoons (5-10ml) sriracha, 1 teaspoon (5ml) soy sauce, and 1 tablespoon (6g) chopped green onions. Mix gently to keep tuna chunky.
Step 4: Heat about 2 tablespoons (30ml) vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry rice cakes for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Flip gently with a spatula. Drain on paper towels.
Step 5: Top each crispy rice cake with a spoonful of spicy tuna mix. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and optionally add a thin slice of cucumber. Serve immediately.

Pro Tips for the Best Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice

Keep these in mind:

Adjust sriracha to taste for desired spiciness.
Use fresh, high-quality tuna for best flavor.
Serve immediately for optimal crispiness.
For a fun twist, consider using avocado slices on top for added creaminess.

Best Ways to Serve Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice

There are several delightful ways to enjoy Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice. You can serve it as a standalone appetizer, perfect for parties or family gatherings. Alternatively, pair it with a refreshing dipping sauce, such as soy sauce or ponzu, for an extra layer of flavor. Another fun idea is to create a sushi platter with various crispy tuna rice bites for guests to sample.

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How to Store and Reheat Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice

To store leftover Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to 2 days. When reheating, it’s best to use a skillet on low heat to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy. This recipe is great for meal prep, allowing you to whip up a delicious appetizer in no time!

Frequently Asked Questions About Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice

What’s the secret to perfect Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice?

The secret lies in using high-quality sashimi-grade tuna and ensuring your rice cakes are fried to a golden crisp. This combination delivers the best flavor and texture, making it a delightful crunchy tuna rice snack.

Can I make Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice ahead of time?

While you can prepare the rice cakes in advance, it’s best to fry them just before serving to maintain their crispy texture. You can also mix the spicy tuna topping ahead of time and store it separately until you’re ready to assemble.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice?

To avoid common pitfalls, ensure your rice is appropriately cooled before shaping it into patties. Additionally, be careful not to overcrowd the skillet while frying, as this can lead to uneven cooking and soggy rice cakes.

Variations of Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice You Can Try

If you want to switch things up, consider these variations of Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice: add diced avocado for a creamy twist, or try swapping the tuna for salmon for a different flavor profile. You can also experiment with various toppings, such as spicy tuna rice crackers or garnishing with different herbs like cilantro or shiso. These options ensure that you can enjoy this dish in many delightful ways!

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making mini cranberry cheesecakes for a sweet treat!