15-min. Easy Japanese Tuna Onigiri

A quick and satisfying meal, 15-min. Easy Japanese Tuna Onigiri is perfect for any occasion. This simple dish brings together fluffy rice and savory tuna in a delightful rice ball, all wrapped in crispy nori. Whether you need a nutritious breakfast, a snack on the go, or a unique lunchbox item, these onigiri are versatile and easy to make. With just six ingredients and a preparation time of only 15 minutes, it’s an ideal choice for busy days.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy mornings.
• Versatile Meal Option: Suitable for breakfast, lunch, snacks, or picnics.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with common pantry staples that are easy to find.
• Customizable Flavors: Adjust the filling or seasonings to suit your taste.
• Nutritious and Filling: Packed with protein from tuna and carbs from rice, it keeps you satisfied.

Tools and Preparation

To make these delicious onigiri, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure success in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Rice paddle
• Mixing bowls
• Fine sieve
• Onigiri mold (optional)
• Plastic wrap (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Rice paddle: Helps in gently mixing and shaping the rice without crushing the grains.
• Fine sieve: Efficiently drains excess liquid from the tuna for better flavor.
• Onigiri mold: Makes shaping rice balls easier and prevents stickiness; great for beginners.

Ingredients

For the Rice Ball

• 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

For the Filling

• 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

Transfer hot cooked short-grain rice into a large bowl and season it with salt using a rice paddle. Cover and set aside. If you’re using leftover cold rice, cover it with a lid or plastic wrap and microwave it for 2-3 minutes before seasoning.

Step 2: Prepare the Tuna Filling

Open a can of tuna and strain it using a fine sieve to remove as much liquid as possible by pressing with a fork. Transfer the strained tuna to a small bowl. Mix in the Japanese mayo until fully combined. Set aside.

Step 3: Prepare Nori Sheets

The amount of nori used is personal preference. If you prefer more dry roasted seaweed, use two nori sheets cut in half to create four pieces. For less nori flavor, use half a sheet cut into four equal strips.

Step 4: Shape the Rice Balls

Prepare a bowl of water nearby and dip clean hands into it to prevent sticking. Take 1/2 cup or 100 grams of cooked rice and place it into your palm. Shape it into a round ball, then flatten it into a pancake about 1/2-inch thick. Make a dent in the center and add 2 tbsp or 30 ml of the tuna mayo mixture into this dent.

Step 5: Forming the Onigiri

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

Step 6: Wrap with Nori

Wrap one sheet of nori from the base around the sides of your shaped triangle onigiri. Repeat this process until you’ve formed all four rice balls. Garnish each onigiri with sesame seeds if desired. Enjoy immediately!

How to Serve 15-min. Easy Japanese Tuna Onigiri

Serving your 15-min. Easy Japanese Tuna Onigiri can be just as delightful as making them! Here are some creative ideas to enjoy these tasty rice balls.

As a Breakfast Option

• Pair with a side of fresh fruit for a balanced morning meal.
• Serve with green tea for a refreshing start to your day.

In a Lunchbox

• Pack with sliced cucumbers and cherry tomatoes for added crunch and freshness.
• Include small containers of soy sauce or dipping sauces for extra flavor.

For Picnics

• Wrap them individually in parchment paper for easy handling.
• Bring along some pickled vegetables as a tangy side to complement the flavors.

As a Snack

• Enjoy them with a side of edamame for additional protein.
• Serve with crunchy seaweed snacks for a fun texture contrast.

How to Perfect 15-min. Easy Japanese Tuna Onigiri

Creating the perfect 15-min. Easy Japanese Tuna Onigiri requires a few simple techniques. Follow these tips to elevate your onigiri game!

• Choose the right rice: Use short-grain rice for its sticky texture, ideal for shaping onigiri.
• Season well: Don’t skimp on salt when seasoning the rice; it enhances the overall flavor.
• Moisten hands: Wetting your hands while shaping prevents the rice from sticking and makes molding easier.
• Experiment with fillings: Try adding other ingredients like avocado or cucumber to add variety to your tuna filling.
• Wrap securely: Ensure each rice ball is wrapped tightly in nori to keep them fresh and flavorful.
• Enjoy fresh: While they can be stored, onigiri tastes best when made and eaten right away.

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

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

1. Miso Soup – A warm bowl of miso soup adds comfort and pairs well with the rice balls.
2. Edamame – Lightly salted edamame provides protein and is easy to prepare, making it a perfect snack alongside onigiri.
3. Japanese Pickles (Tsukemono) – These tangy pickles offer a burst of flavor that balances the rich tuna filling.
4. Seaweed Salad – A refreshing seaweed salad adds crunch and complements the umami flavors of the onigiri.
5. Cucumber Salad – Crisp cucumbers tossed in sesame dressing bring lightness and freshness to your meal.
6. Fruit Skewers – Colorful fruit skewers make for a sweet contrast, adding brightness and vibrancy to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making 15-min. Easy Japanese Tuna Onigiri, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final product. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Using the wrong rice: Not all rice is suitable for onigiri. Use short-grain rice for the best texture and flavor.
• Overfilling the rice balls: Adding too much filling can make shaping difficult. Stick to the recommended amount of tuna mayo to keep them intact.
• Skipping salt in the rice: Seasoning your rice enhances flavor. Always mix in salt while it’s hot.
• Not pressing the rice enough: If you don’t compact the rice well, it may fall apart. Firmly pack the rice when shaping your onigiri.
• Neglecting nori storage: If using nori, store it separately until serving to keep it crisp. Wrap each onigiri only right before eating.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Freezing 15-min. Easy Japanese Tuna Onigiri

• Wrap each onigiri tightly in plastic wrap.
• Freeze for up to 1 month.

Reheating 15-min. Easy Japanese Tuna Onigiri

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake wrapped onigiri for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place onigiri on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat for 30-45 seconds or until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a non-stick skillet over low heat, turning occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other types of fish?

Yes, you can substitute canned salmon or chicken if you prefer a different protein.

How do I customize my tuna onigiri?

Feel free to add chopped vegetables like cucumber or avocado into your tuna mixture for added flavor and texture.

What is the best way to serve onigiri?

Onigiri can be enjoyed as a snack, lunchbox item, or as part of a larger meal. Pair with pickles or salad for variety.

How long will leftovers last?

Leftover onigiri can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days but are best enjoyed fresh.

Final Thoughts

The 15-min. Easy Japanese Tuna Onigiri recipe is quick, delicious, and versatile! You can easily customize it by adding various fillings or garnishes. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or lunchboxes, this dish is sure to please everyone. Give it a try and enjoy its delightful flavors!