Easy Japanese Tuna Onigiri Quick Recipe

Craving a taste of Japan but short on time? This Easy Japanese Tuna Onigiri recipe is your perfect solution! In just 15 minutes, you can whip up these adorable and incredibly satisfying rice balls, packed with a savory tuna filling. They’re ideal for a quick lunch, snack, or picnic treat!

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked Japanese short-grain rice (preferably freshly cooked and warm)
• 1 (5 oz / 140g) can tuna in water or oil, drained very well
• 2-3 tablespoons Japanese mayonnaise (Kewpie recommended)
• 1/2 teaspoon soy sauce
• Pinch of black pepper (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt, plus extra for shaping
• 1-2 sheets roasted nori seaweed, cut into strips or small rectangles

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, combine the well-drained tuna, Japanese mayonnaise, soy sauce, and optional black pepper. Mix thoroughly until the tuna is finely flaked and evenly coated. Set aside.
2. Prepare a small bowl of water and a small plate with about 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Lightly wet your hands with water to prevent the rice from sticking, then sprinkle a bit of salt onto your palms.
3. Take about 1/2 cup of cooked rice and gently flatten it into a disc shape in one palm.
4. Place a spoonful (about 1-2 teaspoons) of the tuna filling in the center of the rice disc.
5. Take another 1/4 cup of rice and place it on top of the tuna filling, covering it completely.
6. Gently bring your hands together, pressing and shaping the rice into a triangle, sphere, or cylinder shape. Apply firm but gentle pressure to compact the rice without crushing it. Repeat with the remaining rice and filling.
7. Wrap each onigiri with a strip or small piece of nori seaweed, pressing it gently to secure. Serve immediately or pack for later!