Description
Crunchy Sushi Bites with Spicy Tuna are a sushi-inspired appetizer featuring crispy, golden sushi rice topped with creamy, spicy tuna. Topped with spicy mayo and garnished with jalapeños, these bite-sized delights are perfect for parties, sushi nights, or whenever you’re craving a flavorful, indulgent treat.
Ingredients
For the sushi rice:
1 cup sushi rice (or other short-grain rice)
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 ½ teaspoons granulated sugar
½ teaspoon kosher salt
½ cup grapeseed oil (or other neutral oil for pan-frying)
For the spicy tuna topping:
½ lb sushi-grade ahi tuna, finely chopped
3 scallions, thinly sliced
1 jalapeño, thinly sliced (for garnish)
Black sesame seeds (for garnish)
For the spicy mayo:
½ cup Kewpie mayonnaise
¼ cup Sriracha
3 tablespoons ponzu sauce
Instructions
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Prepare the Sushi Rice: Rinse the rice thoroughly under cool water until the water runs clear. Cook the rice according to package instructions or using a rice cooker.
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Season the Rice: In a small saucepan, combine the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium-high heat until dissolved, then pour this mixture over the cooked rice and gently mix.
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Cool and Shape the Rice: Transfer the rice to a lined baking dish or container. Press into a flat, even layer (~½” thick). Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight. Once firm, cut into bite-sized rectangles (~2″ x ¾”).
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Make the Spicy Tuna Mixture: Finely chop the tuna. In a bowl, combine tuna, sliced scallions, Kewpie mayo, Sriracha, and ponzu sauce. Mix until well combined and refrigerate until needed.
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Fry the Crispy Rice: Heat the grapeseed oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the rice pieces for about 2 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Drain on a wire rack.
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Assemble: Spoon a heaping tablespoon of the spicy tuna mixture onto each crispy rice piece. Garnish with sesame seeds and a slice of jalapeño. Serve immediately with extra spicy mayo if desired.
Notes
Toppings: Add tobiko or masago for extra crunch and flavor, or avocado slices for added creaminess.
Substitute Proteins: Use spicy salmon or yellowtail instead of tuna for a different flavor profile.
Drizzle: Enhance the dish with a drizzle of sesame oil for a nutty aroma.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: 9 hours 40 minutes
- Method: Frying, Mixing
- Cuisine: Japanese-Inspired
