Tuna Onigiri (Rice Ball)

May 17, 2023May 17, 20230 13

Tuna Onigiri (Rice Ball) - A delicious Japanese dish perfect for a light lunch or snack

by The Chefin Japanese

Prep

15 min

Cook

20 min

Ready In

35 min

Level

Easy

Rating

Ingredients

	1 cup short-grain sushi rice
	1 1/4 cups water
	1 pinch salt ( optional )
	1 can tuna , drained
	2 tablespoons mayonnaise , or to taste
	ground black pepper ( optional )
	1 sheet nori , cut into 1-inch strips , or desired width

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe

Calories

300

Sugar

Fat

Tuna Onigiri (Rice Ball) is a popular Japanese dish that has gained popularity all around the world. This delicious snack or light lunch is made by stuffing a ball of sushi rice with canned tuna mixed with mayonnaise and forming it into a triangle or ball shape. The outside is then wrapped with strips of nori to keep the rice and filling intact. Tuna Onigiri is not only delicious but also quite healthy, providing a great source of protein, whole grains, and other essential nutrients. It makes a great snack on the go or light lunch for busy days.

Instructions

1.	Rinse the sushi rice in cold water until the water runs clear, then drain well.
2.	Add the rice, water, and salt (if using) to a medium saucepan and bring to a boil.
3.	Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
4.	In a small bowl, mix the drained tuna with mayonnaise and black pepper (if using) to taste.
5.	Wet your hands, then lightly salt them and take a handful of rice, shaping it into a triangle shape with a small indentation in the center.
6.	Add a spoonful of the tuna mixture to the indentation, then cover with another handful of rice and shape into a ball.
7.	Wrap a strip of nori around the rice ball, moistening the strip slightly.
8.	Repeat with the remaining rice and tuna mixture, then serve at room temperature or chilled.

PROS

Tuna Onigiri is a great source of protein and energy, making it a great choice for both athletes and non-athletes alike.

The ingredients for this recipe are inexpensive and easy to find at most supermarkets, and the dish is quick and easy to put together.

Tuna Onigiri is also great for meal prep, as it can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

CONS

This dish is high in sodium due to the canned tuna and mayonnaise, so it may not be suitable for those with high blood pressure who are trying to keep their sodium intake low.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Tuna is a great source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and other vitamins and minerals that are essential for good health.
These nutrients can help improve brain function, boost heart health, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer and diabetes.
Nori, the seaweed used in this recipe, is also rich in iodine, which is important for thyroid health.