Tuna rice balls are a fun and easy snack! Made with yummy tuna and fluffy rice, they are shaped into bites for a tasty treat. You can enjoy them plain or with your favorite sauce.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sushi Rice: Short-grain rice is perfect for this because it’s sticky and holds together well. If sushi rice is hard to find, you can use any short-grain white rice or even brown rice—just be sure to adjust the cooking time!
Tuna: Canned tuna is usually the go-to, but you can also use fresh cooked tuna if you have it. For a twist, try using canned salmon or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option!
Nori: This seaweed adds flavor and texture. If you can’t find nori, you can skip it entirely or use chopped spinach or parsley for some greenery.
Panko Breadcrumbs: For an extra crunchy exterior, panko works best. If you don’t have it, regular breadcrumbs are fine, but they may not be as crispy. Gluten-free breadcrumbs are an alternative as well!
How Can I Shape the Perfect Rice Balls?
Shaping the rice balls can be tricky if the mixture is too wet. Here are some tips to help you succeed:
- Make sure your hands are wet! This prevents the rice from sticking.
- When forming the ball, use gentle but firm pressure. You want it compact without mashing the rice.
- About 2-3 tablespoons is a good size for each ball. They should be small enough to pop in your mouth but big enough to hold together.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have perfectly shaped tuna rice balls ready for frying! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
How to Make Tuna Rice Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked short-grain sushi rice, cooled
- 1 can (5 oz) tuna in oil or water, drained and flaked
- 2 sheets nori (seaweed), finely chopped or torn into small pieces
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise (optional, for creaminess)
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
- 1 teaspoon mirin (optional)
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped green onions or fresh cilantro
- 2 tablespoons panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for frying)
- Small amounts of soy sauce or teriyaki sauce for drizzling (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of preparation time and approximately 10-15 minutes of cooking time. In total, you can have these tasty tuna rice balls ready in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, gently combine the cooled sushi rice, flaked tuna, chopped nori, soy sauce, and mayonnaise (if using). Add the sesame seeds, mirin, and green onions or cilantro. Mix everything together gently, making sure not to mash the rice too much—it’s okay if some whole grains stay intact!
2. Form the Rice Balls:
Wet your hands with a little water to keep the rice from sticking. Take a small handful of the rice mixture (about 2-3 tablespoons) and press it into a compact ball. Don’t rush; gently pressing will help keep them together while still being fluffy!
3. Coat with Panko:
Lightly roll each rice ball in panko breadcrumbs. Make sure to press the breadcrumbs onto the surface lightly; this will create a crispy crust when you fry them.
4. Fry the Rice Balls:
In a non-stick skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the rice balls in the pan, leaving space between each one so they don’t stick together. Cook for 3-4 minutes until they turn golden brown on one side.
5. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Using tongs or a spatula, carefully flip the rice balls over. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until they are crispy and golden on all sides. Remove them from the pan and place on a paper towel to drain any excess oil.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the tuna rice balls warm, garnished with additional chopped herbs if you like. Drizzle some soy sauce or teriyaki sauce on the plate for dipping. Enjoy this delightful crunch with every bite!
Bon appétit!
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of Sushi Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice! Just be aware that it will have a different texture and flavor. Be sure to follow the package instructions for cooking, as brown rice usually takes longer to cook than sushi rice.
Can I Make These Rice Balls Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the rice balls and refrigerate them before frying. Just make sure to tightly cover them to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to eat, fry them fresh for the best texture!
How Do I Store Leftover Tuna Rice Balls?
Store any leftover rice balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, use an oven or air fryer to restore their crispiness, instead of microwaving, which can make them soggy.
What Can I Substitute for Tuna?
If you’re looking for a substitute, you can use cooked chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Just ensure the substitute is flaky or mashable for better integration with the rice mixture!