Looking for a delicious, portable, and easy-to-make snack? This Easy Japanese Tuna Onigiri recipe is exactly what you need! These charming rice balls, filled with savory tuna and seasoned to perfection, are a staple in Japanese cuisine. Perfect for lunchboxes, picnics, or a quick and satisfying bite, onigiri are incredibly versatile and fun to make.
This recipe provides a simple, streamlined approach, perfect for beginners who want to explore the delightful world of Japanese cooking.
What is Easy Japanese Tuna Onigiri?
Easy Japanese Tuna Onigiri, often simply called onigiri or rice balls, are a beloved Japanese food consisting of cooked white rice formed into triangular or oval shapes and often wrapped in nori (seaweed). They can be filled with various savory ingredients, and this recipe focuses on a classic: tuna mixed with mayonnaise and seasonings.
Onigiri is a quick and convenient food that is deeply embedded in Japanese culture. It is a staple in lunchboxes and a popular snack enjoyed by people of all ages. It is perfect to take on the go. This recipe is crafted to be simple and accessible, with clear instructions and readily available ingredients. Forget complicated Japanese recipes, this one uses only a select group of ingredients you probably have in your cupboard. No need to over complicate dinner with this Easy Japanese Tuna Onigiri recipe.
Ready to experience the delightful simplicity and delicious flavors of Japanese tuna onigiri? Gather your ingredients, and let’s get started!
Key Ingredients for Easy Japanese Tuna Onigiri:
- Cooked Japanese Short-Grain Rice: 2 cups. This is the foundation of onigiri. Japanese short-grain rice becomes sticky and holds its shape well when cooked. Ensure it’s freshly cooked and still slightly warm for the best results.
- Canned Tuna: 1 (5-ounce) can, drained. Using tuna in water or oil is fine. Drain it thoroughly to avoid soggy onigiri.
- Japanese Mayonnaise (Kewpie): 2 tablespoons. Kewpie mayonnaise has a richer, tangier flavor than regular mayonnaise. If unavailable, you can use regular mayonnaise with a tiny pinch of MSG for a similar taste (MSG optional).
- Soy Sauce: 1 teaspoon. Adds umami and saltiness to the tuna mixture.
- Sesame Oil: 1/2 teaspoon. Enhances the flavor with a nutty aroma.
- Nori Seaweed Sheets: 4 sheets. These are used to wrap the onigiri. Purchase pre-cut onigiri nori sheets for convenience, or cut larger sheets into strips.
- Salt: A pinch, for seasoning the rice.
- Optional toppings 1 teaspoon Furikake or Togarashi.
How to Make Easy Japanese Tuna Onigiri:
This Easy Japanese Tuna Onigiri recipe comes together quickly and easily, perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a satisfying snack in a hurry! The preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, making it an excellent option for meal prepping and last-minute cravings. The highlight of this recipe is the creamy, savory tuna filling that complements the slightly salty rice perfectly.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Prepare the Tuna Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the drained canned tuna, Japanese mayonnaise, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. You can add a pinch of black pepper if desired.
Season the Rice: In a large bowl, gently season the cooked rice with a pinch of salt. Mix lightly, being careful not to mash the rice grains. The rice should still be slightly warm to make it easier to shape.
Prepare Your Hands: Wet your hands lightly with water or coat them with a thin layer of salt to prevent the rice from sticking. This is a crucial step for easy handling.
Shaping the Onigiri:
- Grab about 1/2 cup of seasoned rice and gently form it into a loose ball in the palm of your hand.
- Make a small indentation in the center of the rice ball.
- Spoon about 1-2 tablespoons of the tuna mixture into the indentation.
- Cover the tuna filling with a small amount of rice, and gently mold the rice around the filling to enclose it completely so no tuna is visible. Keep the rice from being contaminated as much as possible.
- Shape the rice ball into a triangle. Use your fingers to gently press the sides to create a neat, even shape. You can also shape it into a round or oval shape if preferred. It helps to wet your hands occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking.
- Repeat steps with the rest of rice and filling.
Wrap with Nori:
- Take a sheet of nori.
- Wrap the nori around the bottom portion of the onigiri. Ensure the nori covers enough of the rice ball for a good grip.
- If using larger nori sheets, cut them into strips approximately 2-3 inches wide, long enough to wrap around the bottom of the onigiri.
- Secure the nori in place by tucking the ends underneath, or use a tiny dab of water to help them stick if they are being unruly and won’t stay.
Serve: Serve your Easy Tuna Onigiri immediately, or wrap them individually in plastic wrap for later enjoyment. The nori will soften over time, so consuming them soon after assembly is best. For storage, keep below.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Japanese Tuna Onigiri:
This Easy Japanese Tuna Onigiri is a delightful and accessible dish packed with flavor and simplicity. The main highlight is the perfect combination of fluffy, slightly salty rice and the creamy, savory tuna filling. The contrast in textures and tastes makes each bite a satisfying experience.
Making onigiri at home is incredibly cost-effective compared to buying them pre-made from grocery stores or restaurants. You control the quality of ingredients, ensuring a fresh and delicious snack without breaking the bank. The flavorful toppings, particularly the blend of soy sauce and sesame oil in the tuna mixture, elevate the onigiri to a whole new level of deliciousness. These ingredients add depth and richness, making each bite irresistible.
If you enjoy convenient rice-based snacks, try making similar recipes at home. An additional recipe idea might be simple seasoned mixed rice for a party. This is a super simple solution.
Ready to ditch the expensive store-bought snacks and enjoy the fresh, homemade goodness of Easy Japanese Tuna Onigiri? Give this recipe a try today!
What to Serve Easy Japanese Tuna Onigiri With:
Easy Japanese Tuna Onigiri is a versatile snack or light meal that pairs well with a variety of accompaniments:
- Miso Soup: A classic pairing, miso soup adds warmth and umami to the meal.
- Edamame: These lightly salted soybeans provide a healthy and satisfying side dish.
- Japanese Pickles (Tsukemono): Pickled vegetables add a refreshing and tangy contrast to the rice balls.
- Green Tea: A traditional Japanese beverage that complements the flavors of the onigiri perfectly.
- Seaweed Salad (Wakame): Adds a refreshing and slightly salty taste.
Top Tips for Perfecting Easy Japanese Tuna Onigiri:
- Rice Quality: Use high-quality Japanese short-grain rice for the best flavor and texture. Ensure the rice is cooked properly and has a slightly sticky consistency. Consider using a rice cooker for consistent results.
- Wet Hands: Always wet your hands with water or coat them with a thin layer of salt before handling the rice. This prevents the rice from sticking and allows for easier shaping.
- Filling Quantity: Don’t overfill the onigiri with tuna mixture. Too much filling can make the rice ball difficult to close and shape properly.
- Nori Crispness: To keep the nori crisp, store the onigiri in an airtight container or wrap them individually in plastic wrap immediately after assembly. The nori will soften over time as it absorbs moisture from the rice. You can eat them like this regardless though.
- Substitutions: Don’t have Japanese mayonnaise? Regular mayonnaise mixed with a tiny pinch of MSG (optional) and a dash of rice vinegar will work in a pinch.
You can use smoked salmon or canned chicken instead of tuna. - Practice: Shaping onigiri takes practice! Don’t be discouraged if your first few attempts aren’t perfect. The more you make them, the better you’ll become at creating neat, uniform shapes.
Try adding different seasonings (like soy sauce or furikake) to the rice for variety.
Health Benefits of Easy Japanese Tuna Onigiri:
Tuna Onigiri can be a relatively healthy snack or light meal option. Tuna is a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids supporting heart health. Nori seaweed is rich in minerals and vitamins, including iodine, which is essential for thyroid function. Rice is a source of carbohydrates for energy and is low in fat.
Storing and Reheating Tips:
Storing:
- Refrigeration: Store leftover onigiri in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keeping them airtight will help prevent the rice from drying out.
- Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze onigiri. Wrap each onigiri individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month.
Reheating:
- Refrigerated Onigiri: To reheat refrigerated onigiri, microwave on high for 30-60 seconds, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can wrap it in foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
- Frozen Onigiri: Thaw frozen onigiri in the refrigerator before reheating as described above, or microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, flipping halfway through. If the nori becomes soft, you can toast the onigiri in a dry skillet for a few minutes to crisp it up slightly
- Make sure the filling is also warmed up before eating.
Final Thoughts:
This Easy Japanese Tuna Onigiri recipe unlocks a world of delicious simplicity right in your kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, follow these easy steps, and enjoy making and eating these flavorful rice balls!
try also : Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe and find more in pinterest
Easy Tuna Onigiri Faqs :
Q: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
A: While traditional onigiri uses white rice, you can experiment with brown rice. However, brown rice may not be as sticky as white rice, so you might need to add a bit more water during cooking or use a rice mold to help shape the onigiri.
Q: Can I add other ingredients to the tuna mixture?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to customize the tuna mixture with ingredients like chopped green onions, a dash of chili flakes, or a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
Q: Can I make onigiri ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make onigiri ahead of time. Just ensure they are stored properly to maintain their freshness. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Q: How do I prevent the rice from sticking to my hands?
A: Wet your hands with water or coat them with a thin layer of salt before handling the rice. This will prevent the rice from sticking. You can also use a special onigiri rice mold that will automatically form them.
Q: What else can I fill onigiri with?
A: You can fill onigiri with anything you want. If you dont like tuna, try other ingredients like pickled plum, seaweed in soy sauce, etc.
Q: Why did my nori get soggy when I prepared my Easy Japanese Tuna Onigiri?
A: The moisture of the rice is the main way Nori becomes soggy. Make sure the rice has cooled completely before wrapping.