Description
Tuna Crispy Rice Bites are a delicious and sophisticated snack combining tender, flavorful sushi-grade tuna with perfectly crispy fried sushi rice blocks. This easy-to-make appetizer offers a wonderful crunch alongside rich umami flavors, ideal for parties, casual snacking, or elegant entertaining.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crispy Rice
- 2 cups sushi rice (short-grain rice)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Vegetable oil for frying (about 1 cup)
For the Tuna Topping
- 8 oz fresh sushi-grade tuna, diced
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 teaspoon sriracha or hot sauce (optional)
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
- Thin nori strips (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Sushi Rice: Cook the sushi rice according to the package instructions. Once cooked, spread the rice evenly on a tray or large plate to cool. Lightly season with rice vinegar, sugar, and salt, gently folding to incorporate the flavors.
- Shape and Fry the Rice: When the rice is cool and sticky, shape it into small rectangular or square blocks using wet hands or a mold. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and fry the rice blocks until both sides turn golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Mix the Tuna Topping: Dice the fresh tuna into small pieces. In a bowl, combine the tuna with mayonnaise, soy sauce, and sriracha if using. Add the chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds, mixing gently to maintain texture.
- Assemble the Bites: Place a generous spoonful of the tuna mixture on each crispy rice block. Optionally garnish with thin nori strips or drizzle additional sauce for extra flair.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy the Tuna Crispy Rice Bites warm and fresh to preserve the optimal crunchy texture. Garnish as desired and serve with dipping sauces or side salads.
Notes
- Use cold or day-old sushi rice for better shaping and frying results.
- Fry rice bites in batches to avoid overcrowding and maintain oil temperature.
- Always use sushi-grade fresh tuna to ensure safety and optimal flavor.
- Pat dry tuna pieces to prevent sogginess in the topping.
- Assemble just before serving to keep the rice crispy.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Pan-frying
- Cuisine: Japanese-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 bites
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg