Crispy Rice with Spicy Tuna

Crispy Rice with Spicy Tuna is a delightful fusion of textures and flavors, featuring golden, pan-fried sushi rice topped with a creamy, spicy tuna mixture. Inspired by the renowned appetizer from Nobu, this dish combines the crunch of crispy rice with the rich umami of seasoned tuna, creating an irresistible bite-sized treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Restaurant-quality at home: Recreate a popular sushi bar favorite in your own kitchen.
• Perfect for entertaining: These bite-sized delights are ideal for parties and gatherings.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level and toppings to suit your preferences.
• Versatile: Serve as an appetizer, snack, or part of a main course.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Sushi rice
• Rice vinegar
• Sugar
• Salt
• Sushi-grade tuna
• Kewpie mayonnaise
• Sriracha sauce
• Soy sauce
• Sesame oil
• Green onions
• Avocado
• Jalapeño slices
• Sesame seeds
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

Directions

1. Prepare the sushi rice: Rinse the rice until the water runs clear. Cook according to package instructions. While still warm, season with a mixture of rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Spread the rice into a baking dish lined with plastic wrap, pressing it down to an even thickness. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.
2. Make the spicy tuna mixture: Finely dice the sushi-grade tuna. In a bowl, combine the tuna with Kewpie mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, and chopped green onions. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to use.
3. Cut and fry the rice: Once the rice has set, remove it from the refrigerator and cut it into small rectangles or squares. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the rice pieces until golden and crispy on both sides. Remove and drain on paper towels.
4. Assemble the bites: Top each crispy rice piece with a slice of avocado, a spoonful of the spicy tuna mixture, a jalapeño slice, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
5. Serve immediately: Enjoy these bites fresh for the best texture and flavor.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 15 pieces
• Preparation time: 30 minutes (excluding rice chilling time)
• Cooking time: 20 minutes
• Total time: Approximately 1 hour (plus at least 4 hours for rice chilling)

Variations

• Canned tuna option: Substitute sushi-grade tuna with high-quality canned tuna for convenience. Adjust seasoning as needed.
• Alternative proteins: Use sushi-grade salmon or cooked shrimp as a variation.
• Vegetarian version: Replace tuna with finely diced tofu or a mix of mashed avocado and chopped vegetables.
• Spice level: Adjust the amount of sriracha to increase or decrease the heat.
• Additional toppings: Garnish with pickled ginger, microgreens, or a drizzle of eel sauce for extra flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The spicy tuna mixture can be kept for up to 1 day.
• Reheating: Reheat the crispy rice pieces in a skillet over medium heat to restore their crunch. Assemble with toppings just before serving.
• Note: Assembled bites are best enjoyed immediately to maintain texture and freshness.

FAQs

What type of rice is best for this recipe?

Sushi rice or short-grain Japanese rice is ideal due to its sticky texture, which helps the rice hold together when forming and frying.

Can I use regular mayonnaise instead of Kewpie?

Yes, but Kewpie mayonnaise has a richer flavor and creamier texture, which enhances the overall taste of the spicy tuna mixture.

Is it safe to eat raw tuna at home?

Ensure you use sushi-grade tuna from a reputable source, as it is handled and frozen in a way that makes it safe for raw consumption.

Can I prepare the rice in advance?

Yes, you can prepare and chill the rice up to a day ahead. Cut and fry the rice just before assembling the bites for the best texture.

How do I prevent the rice from sticking to my hands when forming?

Wet your hands with water before handling the rice to prevent sticking.

What oil is best for frying the rice?

Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable, canola, or grapeseed oil.

Can I bake the rice instead of frying?

Frying yields the crispiest texture, but you can bake the rice pieces at 425°F (220°C) until golden, flipping halfway through.

How long can I store the spicy tuna mixture?

The spicy tuna mixture should be consumed within 24 hours and kept refrigerated until use.

Can I make this recipe spicy?

Adjust the amount of sriracha in the tuna mixture to increase the heat level to your preference.

What can I serve alongside these bites?

Serve with soy sauce for dipping, pickled ginger, or a light salad to complement the flavors.

Conclusion

Crispy Rice with Spicy Tuna offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors, making it a standout appetizer or snack. With its customizable elements and impressive presentation, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering. Enjoy crafting this restaurant-inspired dish in the comfort of your own kitchen.

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