Tuna Rice Balls

Perfectly portable and bursting with savory flavor, these Tuna Rice Balls are a delightful blend of Japanese culinary tradition and modern convenience. Made with tender, seasoned sushi rice infused with a delicate rice vinegar dressing, these hand-shaped treasures are stuffed with a creamy, umami-packed tuna filling enhanced by a touch of mayo and soy sauce. Whether you opt to wrap them in nori for a briny twist or top them with toasted sesame seeds for added nuttiness, these rice balls are as versatile as they are delicious. Ideal for meal prepping, lunchboxes, or an on-the-go snack, this recipe is quick to prepare, with just 20 minutes of cooking time, making it a perfect introduction to homemade sushi-inspired dishes. Enjoy them fresh or store them for a flavor-packed bite anytime!

Nutriscore Rating: 70/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 2 cups Short-grain rice (sushi rice)
• 2.5 cups Water
• 2 tablespoons Rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Granulated sugar
• 0.5 teaspoons Salt
• 1 can (5 ounces) Canned tuna (drained)
• 2 tablespoons Mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon Soy sauce
• 2 sheets Nori sheets (seaweed), optional
• 1 tablespoon Sesame seeds, optional
• 0.25 cups Water for handling rice

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.

Step 2

Combine the washed rice and water in a medium pot or rice cooker. Cook according to the rice cooker instructions, or if using a stovetop, bring the water to a boil, reduce to low heat, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes until the water is fully absorbed.

Step 3

While the rice is cooking, prepare the seasoning by mixing rice vinegar, granulated sugar, and salt in a small bowl until dissolved.

Step 4

Once the rice is cooked, transfer it to a large bowl. Gently fold in the vinegar mixture with a wooden spoon or spatula, avoiding crushing the grains. Let the seasoned rice cool to room temperature.

Step 5

In another bowl, combine the drained tuna, mayonnaise, and soy sauce. Mix well to create a flavorful filling.

Step 6

Optional: Toast sesame seeds in a dry pan over low heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring often, until fragrant. Set aside.

Step 7

Prepare a small bowl of water to dip your hands in when working with the rice to prevent it from sticking.

Step 8

Wet your hands with water and take about 1/4 to 1/3 cup of seasoned rice. Flatten it slightly in your palm.

Step 9

Add a teaspoon of the tuna filling to the center of the rice. Carefully shape the rice around the filling to form a ball or triangle, ensuring the filling is completely enclosed.

Step 10

Optionally, wrap the rice ball partially with a strip of nori for added flavor and decoration. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds if desired.

Step 11

Repeat with the remaining rice and filling.

Step 12

Serve immediately or wrap in plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Best enjoyed at room temperature.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1184.9 grams (1184.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	896

Total Fat 27.80g	36%
Saturated Fat 2.70g	14%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.00g
Cholesterol 40mg	13%
Sodium 1630mg	71%
Total Carbohydrate 137.70g	50%
Dietary Fiber 3.30g	12%
Total Sugars 13.00g
Protein 21.00g	42%

Vitamin D 23IU	114%
Calcium 171mg	13%
Iron 3mg	17%
Potassium 381mg	8%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 28.3%

Protein: 9.5%

Carbs: 62.2%