Description
Easy Tuna Rice Balls are a quick, protein-packed snack made with cooked rice, canned tuna, mayo, and simple seasonings. Perfect for lunchboxes or light meals, these bite-sized treats are flavorful, versatile, and ready in under 20 minutes.
Ingredients
2 cups cooked jasmine or short-grain rice (cooled)
1 can (5 oz) tuna in water, drained
2 tablespoons mayonnaise (Japanese mayo preferred)
1 teaspoon soy sauce
1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon finely chopped green onions (optional)
Salt to taste
1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
1 sheet nori (seaweed), cut into thin strips (optional, for garnish or wrapping)
Plastic wrap, for shaping (optional)
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix the drained tuna with mayonnaise, soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions until well combined.
- In another bowl, fluff the cooled rice and season it lightly with salt. Stir in the toasted sesame seeds.
- Place a piece of plastic wrap on your palm, scoop about 2 tablespoons of rice onto it, and flatten gently.
- Add a small spoonful of the tuna filling in the center and cover it with another tablespoon of rice.
- Using the plastic wrap, shape the rice into a firm ball by pressing gently with both hands.
- Repeat the process until all rice and filling are used up.
- Optionally, wrap a strip of nori around each rice ball or press a piece on top for garnish.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Notes
Use short-grain or jasmine rice for best stickiness and texture.
Add sriracha or chili oil to the tuna mixture for a spicy version.
Try substituting tuna with cooked salmon or shredded chicken.
Fold in diced cucumbers or carrots for added crunch and color.
Furikake makes a great topping for extra umami flavor.
Greek yogurt or mashed avocado can replace mayo for a healthier option.
Best enjoyed cold or at room temperature—no need to reheat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: Japanese-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 rice ball
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 4.5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
