Easy Tuna Rice Balls

Tuna Mayo Rice Balls are a simple, quick, and satisfying Korean-inspired dish perfect for snacks, light meals, or lunchboxes. Made with just a few pantry staples like canned tuna, warm rice, seaweed, sesame oil, and creamy Japanese mayo, these rice balls come together in just minutes and require no cooking. They’re deliciously savory, slightly creamy, and packed with umami flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: Ready in 15 minutes with minimal prep.

• Budget-friendly: Uses affordable pantry staples.

• No cooking required: Just mix, roll, and serve.

• Great for meal prep or lunchboxes: Convenient and portable.

• Customizable: You can switch up the ingredients easily.

• Kid-friendly: Mild flavors make it appealing to all ages.

• Perfect texture: Creamy mayo, tender tuna, and chewy rice.

• Delicious warm or at room temperature.

• Fun to make: A hands-on, no-fuss recipe.

• Korean-inspired flavor: Brings that restaurant-style snack right to your kitchen.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• cooked sushi rice

• canned tuna

• sesame oil

• Japanese kewpie mayo

• shredded roasted seaweed

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked sushi rice, sesame oil, Japanese mayo, canned tuna, and shredded roasted seaweed.

2. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined. Add more mayo if desired for a creamier texture.

3. Press the rice mixture down in the bowl and use a spatula to divide it into 8 portions, like slicing a pizza. Alternatively, eyeball the portions.

4. With clean hands or wearing gloves, roll each portion into a ball.

5. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Servings and timing

Servings: 8 rice balls
Prep time: 15 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Add soy sauce: A splash of soy sauce can enhance umami depth.

• Wasabi topping: Add a tiny dollop on each ball for a spicy kick.

• Use seasoned rice: Mix the rice with rice vinegar and sugar for a sushi-style twist.

• Add furikake: Sprinkle on this Japanese seasoning mix for extra flavor and crunch.

• Stuff into inari: Use inari (seasoned tofu pouches) for a sweet-savory contrast.

• Spicy tuna version: Add a bit of gochujang or sriracha to the mayo-tuna mix.

• Mix in veggies: Add finely chopped cucumbers, carrots, or green onions for extra texture.

• Use nori sheets: Wrap each ball with a strip of roasted nori for added structure.

• Try different proteins: Substitute tuna with canned salmon or shredded cooked chicken.

• Shape into triangles or ovals: For traditional onigiri styling.

Storage/Reheating

Tuna Mayo Rice Balls are best enjoyed immediately after preparation. If you need to store them:

• Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

• Reheating: Not recommended, as the texture and flavor of mayo and seaweed degrade with heat. If necessary, let them come to room temperature before eating.

• Tip: Avoid freezing—these rice balls do not freeze well due to the mayo and tuna.

FAQs

How long can tuna mayo rice balls sit out?

They can safely sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours. For longer storage, refrigerate promptly.

Can I use regular mayo instead of Japanese mayo?

Yes, but Japanese mayo (like Kewpie) has a richer, tangier flavor that’s ideal for this dish.

Can I use other types of rice?

Sushi rice is ideal for its sticky texture, but jasmine or short-grain rice can work in a pinch.

Are these rice balls gluten-free?

Yes, if all your ingredients (especially mayo and seaweed) are certified gluten-free.

Can I make these rice balls spicy?

Absolutely. Add a bit of sriracha, gochujang, or wasabi to the tuna mayo mix.

Do I need to rinse the rice before cooking?

Yes, rinsing removes excess starch and helps the rice cook with the right texture for rolling.

Can I prepare them ahead of time?

You can prep them a few hours in advance, but for best results, serve immediately after rolling.

What kind of seaweed should I use?

Shredded roasted seaweed is ideal. You can also cut or crumble full-sized nori sheets.

Can I pack these for lunch?

Yes, but keep them cool using an insulated container or lunch bag with an ice pack.

What can I serve with these rice balls?

They pair well with miso soup, pickled veggies, Korean meatballs, or a small salad.

Conclusion

Tuna Mayo Rice Balls are the perfect combination of convenience and comfort. With minimal ingredients and no need for cooking, they’re a go-to option for busy days, late-night cravings, or easy lunches. Whether you’re making them for yourself or sharing with family, these rice balls deliver flavor, texture, and satisfaction in every bite. Try them once, and they just might become your new favorite snack.

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