15-min. Easy Japanese Tuna Onigiri

A quick and easy meal, 15-min. Easy Japanese Tuna Onigiri is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a delightful breakfast, a convenient snack, or a tasty addition to your lunchbox, this onigiri recipe has you covered. Made with just six simple ingredients, these flavorful rice balls are not only delicious but also customizable to suit your taste. Enjoy the unique blend of tuna and Japanese mayo wrapped in savory nori, creating a delightful treat you can savor anywhere!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation – With just 15 minutes needed, you can whip up these delicious rice balls in no time.
• Simple Ingredients – Only six common ingredients are required, making it easy to gather everything you need.
• Versatile Meal Option – Perfect for breakfast, snacks, picnics, or even as part of a main meal.
• Customizable Flavors – Adjust the tuna and mayo ratio or add other fillings according to your preference.
• Fun to Make – Shaping the onigiri can be a fun activity for both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, ensure you have the right tools ready. These tools will help streamline your cooking process and enhance your experience while making onigiri.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Rice paddle
• Fine sieve
• Mixing bowl
• Large bowl for shaping rice
• Onigiri mold (optional)
• Plastic wrap (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Rice paddle – Ideal for fluffing and seasoning your rice without crushing it.
• Fine sieve – Helps drain excess liquid from tuna efficiently, ensuring a perfect filling consistency.
• Onigiri mold – Makes shaping rice balls easier and more uniform if you’re new to making onigiri.

Ingredients

A delicious rice ball stuffed with tuna, mayo wrapped with dry roasted seaweed. This quick and easy Japanese tuna onigiri is made in 15 minutes with only 6 ingredients. Great for breakfast, as a snack, meal, lunchbox item or picnic food!

Ingredients:
– 2 sheets nori (or use 1/2 sheet if you prefer less)
– 1 tsp sesame seeds (for garnishing, optional)
– 2 cups cooked short grain rice (if you’re making fresh rice, see Notes below)
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 5.29 oz canned tuna (in oil recommended, or canned tuna in water)
– 2 tbsp Japanese mayo (or regular mayonnaise)*

How to Make 15-min. Easy Japanese Tuna Onigiri

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

1. Transfer hot cooked short-grain rice into a large bowl.
2. Season with salt using a rice paddle.
3. Cover and set aside. If using cold leftover rice, cover it and microwave for 2-3 minutes before seasoning.

Step 2: Prepare the Tuna Filling

1. Open a can of tuna and strain it using a fine sieve.
2. Press the tuna with a fork to remove excess liquids.
3. Transfer the drained tuna to a small bowl and mix in the Japanese mayo until well combined.

Step 3: Prepare Nori Sheets

1. Decide how much nori you’d like based on personal preference.
2. If using two sheets of nori, cut them in half to create four pieces.
3. If you prefer less nori, cut one sheet into four equal strips.

Step 4: Shape the Onigiri

1. Prepare a bowl of water nearby; dip clean hands into it.
2. Take 1/2 cup or 100 grams of cooked rice and place it in your palm.
3. Shape it into a round ball then flatten it into a 1/2-inch thick pancake with a dent in the middle.
4. Place about 2 tbsp or 30 ml of tuna mayo mixture into the dent.

Step 5: Form the Rice Balls

1. Fold the rice over the filling while pushing it into the center.
2. Firmly pack it into a ball shape; flatten it to about 1.5 inches thick and shape it into a triangle while wetting your hands as needed.

Step 6: Wrap with Nori & Garnish

1. Wrap one piece of nori from the base of the triangle around its sides.
2. Repeat this process until all four rice balls are shaped.
3. Garnish each piece with sesame seeds before enjoying immediately!

How to Serve 15-min. Easy Japanese Tuna Onigiri

15-min. Easy Japanese Tuna Onigiri is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you are having it for breakfast, as a snack, or as part of a picnic spread, these rice balls are sure to please.

As a Quick Snack

• Perfect for an on-the-go snack, these rice balls are easy to hold and eat.

In a Lunchbox

• Add them to lunchboxes for a filling meal option that kids and adults alike will enjoy.

With a Side of Soup

• Pair your onigiri with miso soup or any light broth to create a comforting meal.

At a Picnic

• Pack them along with fresh fruits and drinks for an ideal picnic food that doesn’t require utensils.

How to Perfect 15-min. Easy Japanese Tuna Onigiri

To make your 15-min. Easy Japanese Tuna Onigiri even better, here are some tips to keep in mind.

• Use Fresh Rice: Freshly cooked short-grain rice provides the best texture and flavor. If using leftover rice, ensure it’s heated well before shaping.
• Moisten Your Hands: Dipping your hands in water prevents the rice from sticking, making it easier to shape the onigiri.
• Balance the Filling: Ensure your tuna mayo mixture is well-combined but not too wet. This helps maintain the structure of the rice ball.
• Experiment with Nori: Adjust the amount of nori used based on your taste preference. Some may prefer more crunch and flavor, while others may want less.
• Garnish Creatively: Consider adding other toppings like furikake or sesame seeds for additional flavor and texture.
• Store Properly: If not consuming immediately, wrap each rice ball tightly in plastic wrap to keep them fresh.

Best Side Dishes for 15-min. Easy Japanese Tuna Onigiri

Pairing side dishes with your 15-min. Easy Japanese Tuna Onigiri can enhance the meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Miso Soup: A traditional Japanese soup that complements the flavors of onigiri beautifully.
2. Edamame: Lightly salted edamame adds protein and is easy to prepare by steaming or boiling.
3. Japanese Pickles (Tsukemono): These add a tangy crunch and balance out the richness of tuna mayo.
4. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad made with thinly sliced cucumbers dressed in vinegar brings brightness to the dish.
5. Seaweed Salad: A flavorful seaweed salad adds a unique taste and pairs well with the rice balls.
6. Fruit Skewers: For dessert or a refreshing side, fruit skewers offer sweetness and color to your meal.
7. Tempura Vegetables: Crispy tempura can provide a delightful contrast in texture alongside soft onigiri.
8. Green Tea: A warm cup of green tea can enhance the overall dining experience and aid digestion.

Enjoy creating your perfect meal with these serving suggestions and side dishes!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making 15-min. Easy Japanese Tuna Onigiri can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using Cold Rice – Starting with cold rice can lead to a dry texture. Always warm leftover rice before using it in this recipe.
• Overfilling the Onigiri – Adding too much filling can make it difficult to shape the rice ball. Stick to 2 tablespoons of tuna mayo per onigiri.
• Skipping Seasoning – Rice without salt will lack flavor. Make sure to season your rice properly for the best taste.
• Not Using Nori – Leaving out nori makes your onigiri less authentic and flavorful. Don’t skip this important ingredient!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store onigiri in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 2 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing 15-min. Easy Japanese Tuna Onigiri

• Wrap each onigiri tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 1 month.

Reheating 15-min. Easy Japanese Tuna Onigiri

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Cover with a damp paper towel and heat for 30-60 seconds until hot.
• Stovetop – Heat in a pan over low heat, turning occasionally until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making 15-min. Easy Japanese Tuna Onigiri.

Can I use any type of rice?

You should use short-grain rice for the best texture and stickiness, which helps the onigiri hold its shape.

What other fillings can I use?

Feel free to customize your onigiri with fillings like pickled vegetables, cooked salmon, or even avocado!

How do I keep them from getting soggy?

Wrap them in nori just before serving to maintain their crispness and avoid moisture from seeping into the rice.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them a day in advance and store them properly as instructed.

Final Thoughts

The 15-min. Easy Japanese Tuna Onigiri is not only quick but also versatile, making it perfect for breakfast, snacks, or lunchboxes. Feel free to customize your fillings and enjoy this delightful treat that captures the essence of Japanese cuisine!