Tuna Onigiri: A Japanese Classic You Can Make at Home

Discover the Simplicity of Delicious Tuna Onigiri

Introduction

Tuna onigiri, with its savory-salty tuna mixed with creamy mayonnaise, is a staple of Japanese cuisine. It's a fantastic option for busy mornings, packed lunches, or a satisfying snack whenever the craving hits. This recipe is incredibly beginner-friendly, so let's get started!

Ingredients

Here's your simple shopping list for tuna onigiri:

• Cooked Sushi Rice: Approximately 2-3 cups of short-grain sushi rice, cooked and slightly cooled.

• Canned Tuna: Drained and flaked. Aim for about 1 can (5 ounces).

• Kewpie Mayonnaise: 2-3 tablespoons of Japanese mayonnaise for its richer flavor.

• Seasonings:

  • Soy sauce (a few dashes)

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • Optional: Furikake (Japanese rice seasoning)

• Nori Sheets: Pre-cut dried seaweed sheets for wrapping.

• Onigiri Kit (Optional): A mold helps achieve the traditional shape.

Instructions

1. Make the Tuna Filling: Combine the flaked tuna, Kewpie mayonnaise, soy sauce, and salt and pepper in a bowl, adjusting seasonings to taste.

2. Form Your Onigiri:

   • With mold: Wet the mold, add a rice layer, indent center for filling, add more rice, press to form. Gently release the onigiri.

   • Without mold: Wet your hands, take a palm-sized portion of rice, create a well for filling, add more rice, and shape into a triangle or ball.
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3. Wrap with Nori: Cut nori sheets in half. Wrap a strip of nori around the base of each onigiri to secure the ingredients. Buy Nori Sheet on Amazon!

Tips for Tuna Onigiri Perfection

• Tuna choice: For the best flavor, opt for tuna packed in oil.

• Mix it up: Add finely chopped green onions or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for extra texture.

• Keep it fresh: Tuna onigiri are best enjoyed the day they are made.

• Season the rice: A light sprinkle of salt on the rice elevates the overall flavor of your onigiri.

• Use Onigiri Molds

Variations on Classic Tuna Onigiri

• Spicy Tuna Mayo: Add a dollop of sriracha or your favorite hot sauce to the tuna mix.

• Tuna with Corn: Mix in sweet corn kernels for added color and a hint of sweetness.

• Avocado Delight: Include small cubes of avocado in the filling for extra creaminess.

Tuna Onigiri: A Snack for Any Occasion

Tuna onigiri's simplicity and deliciousness make it a satisfying and convenient snack or light meal. Whether you're new to Japanese food or simply want a tasty and easy recipe, this onigiri variation is sure to become your new go-to!