Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice

Name: Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups sushi rice; 2 1/2 cups water; 1/4 cup rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; Vegetable oil for frying; 8 oz sushi-grade tuna, diced; 2 tablespoons mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon Sriracha; 1 teaspoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; Green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Elevate your appetizer game with this Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice recipe. Featuring perfectly seared sushi-grade tuna, zesty Sriracha mayo, and crispy, golden rice bites, this dish is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. Perfect for entertaining or enjoying a delicious snack, these bite-sized treats are sure to impress any sushi lover!

Created by

Charity Bowen

Last updated on 2025-11-29T12:33:32.415Z

This Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice recipe combines the rich flavors of sushi with a crunchy texture that is simply addictive. Perfect for gatherings, each bite offers a burst of umami paired with a hint of heat from the Sriracha mayo.

The Perfect Snack for Gatherings

Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice makes for an irresistible appetizer that is sure to capture the attention of your guests. Its combination of crispy texture and zesty flavors creates an engaging start to any meal or gathering. Whether it’s a casual get-together or a formal event, these small bites can be easily served on a platter, allowing your guests to indulge in a delightful fusion of the classic sushi experience with added crunch.

Presentation is key when entertaining, and these crispy rice bites are visually stunning as well. The vibrant colors of the fresh tuna and green onion garnish against the golden rice make for an eye-catching display that will impress everyone at your gathering. Plus, the bite-sized nature of these treats makes them incredibly easy to grab and enjoy, removing the need for utensils and making mingling a breeze.

Flavor Fusion

This recipe brings together the flavors of traditional sushi with a twist. The zesty Sriracha mayo perfectly complements the rich flavor of sushi-grade tuna, creating a deliciously spicy topping that contrasts beautifully with the crunchy rice base. The choice of sesame oil and soy sauce adds depth to the spicy tuna mixture, enhancing the overall flavor profile and ensuring every bite is packed with taste.

Additionally, the use of vinegar-stressed rice adds a hint of tangy sweetness that balances the heat from the Sriracha. This extraordinary blend of flavors not only excites the taste buds but also showcases the versatility of sushi ingredients, making this dish a favorite for both sushi aficionados and newcomers alike.

Tips for Perfection

To achieve the perfect crispy rice, ensure that the rice is cooked and cooled adequately before shaping it. This allows for easy handling and helps the rice hold together during frying. When shaping, be gentle yet firm to ensure your rice retains its form without becoming mushy. Also, make sure your oil is hot enough for frying to get that golden-brown crust, as frying in oil that's not hot enough can lead to greasy rice.

If you prefer a milder flavor, feel free to adjust the amount of Sriracha in the mayonnaise or add a touch of honey for sweetness. Experimenting with different toppings, such as avocado or sesame seeds, can take your Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice to another level, allowing you to make it your own while still keeping the core essence of this delightful dish.

Ingredients

For the Crispy Rice

2 cups sushi rice
2 1/2 cups water
1/4 cup rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
Vegetable oil for frying

For the Spicy Tuna

8 oz sushi-grade tuna, diced
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 tablespoon Sriracha
1 teaspoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
Green onions for garnish

Make sure to use high-quality sushi-grade tuna for the best flavor and safety.

Instructions

Cook the Rice

Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Combine the rice and water in a pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Prepare the Vinegar Mixture

In a small bowl, mix rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until dissolved. Stir this mixture into the cooked rice and let it cool completely.

Shape and Fry the Rice

Once cooled, shape the rice into small rectangles. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat and fry the rice pieces until golden Brown on both sides. Drain on paper towels.

Make the Spicy Tuna

In a bowl, combine diced tuna, mayonnaise, Sriracha, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well to combine.

Assemble the Dish

Top each crispy rice piece with a spoonful of the spicy tuna mixture. Garnish with sliced green onions.

Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Storing Leftovers

Storing leftovers can be challenging with rice dishes, but it’s possible to keep your Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice fresh. To maintain the crispy texture, store the rice bites separately from the spicy tuna mixture in an airtight container. Keep them in the refrigerator and consume within 24 hours for the best quality. Reheating crispy rice can be tricky, so consider using an oven for a few minutes to restore some of the original crunch.

If you find yourself with leftover spicy tuna, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. Use it as a topping for salads or in sushi rolls, giving you more versatility with your flavorful creation. Transforming leftovers into a new meal ensures nothing goes to waste while experiencing unique dishes inspired by the original recipe.

Variations to Try

While the classic Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice is undoubtedly delicious, there are several variations you can try to keep things interesting. For a seafood twist, consider using diced salmon or even crab meat instead of tuna. Each protein brings a different flavor and texture that can elevate this dish even further. For vegetarians, substitute the fish with marinated tofu or finely chopped vegetables, offering a delightful alternative that retains the essence of the recipe.

Additionally, you can add different toppings to the crispy rice bites. Consider a drizzle of eel sauce for a hint of sweetness, or even a sprinkle of chili flakes for extra heat. These creative variations not only optimize the flavor profile but also make it a customizable appetizer that caters to the tastes and dietary preferences of all your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular tuna instead of sushi-grade?

It's recommended to use sushi-grade tuna to ensure safety and quality.

→ How can I make this dish less spicy?

Reduce the amount of Sriracha mayo to suit your taste.