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Easy Tuna Rice Balls Recipe

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4.7 from 86 reviews

These Easy Tuna Rice Balls combine tender sushi rice with savory canned tuna, toasted sesame oil, and roasted seaweed to create a quick, flavorful snack or light meal. Simple to prepare with just a few ingredients, these rice balls offer a creamy texture and a satisfying umami taste, perfect for on-the-go or casual dining.

Ingredients

Seaweed

  • 1 to 1.5 cups torn roasted seaweed

Rice Mixture

  • 2 cups prepared sushi rice
  • 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
  • 150g canned tuna, drained well (Bumble Bee Chunk Light recommended)
  • 2 to 3 tbsp Japanese mayonnaise (such as Kewpie)

Instructions

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the sushi rice, toasted sesame oil, Japanese mayonnaise, drained tuna, and torn roasted seaweed. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated. If the mixture feels dry or not creamy enough, add more mayonnaise gradually to reach your desired creaminess.
  2. Shape the Mixture: Press down the combined rice mixture evenly in the bowl to create a flat surface. Using a spatula, cut the mixture into 8 triangular portions, reminiscent of slicing a pizza. Alternatively, estimate the amount of mixture needed per rice ball without precise measuring.
  3. Form the Rice Balls: With clean hands or gloves, scoop each portion and gently roll it into a compact ball, ensuring each rice ball is tightly packed to maintain its shape well.
  4. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the tuna rice balls immediately to enjoy the best texture and taste. They make a delightful snack or light meal on their own or paired with your favorite sides.

Notes

  • Use sushi rice for the best sticky texture that holds the rice balls together.
  • Adjust the amount of mayonnaise to achieve creaminess according to your preference.
  • Wear gloves or wet your hands slightly when shaping the rice balls to prevent sticking.
  • These rice balls are best eaten fresh but can be refrigerated and eaten within a day.
  • Optionally, sprinkle extra sesame seeds or soy sauce for added flavor.