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Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice Recipe

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3.9 from 8 reviews

This Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice recipe features perfectly cooked sushi rice pressed into squares and pan-fried to golden crispiness, topped with a delectable mix of finely chopped ahi tuna blended with spicy sriracha, creamy mayonnaise, and zesty lime. Garnished with fresh avocado slices, toasted sesame seeds, scallions, and a hint of heat from jalapeño or serrano peppers, this dish is a delightful fusion of textures and flavors perfect for appetizers or party bites.

Ingredients

Rice and Rice Seasoning

  • 1.5 cups sushi rice (rinsed until water is clear)
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil

Spicy Tuna Mixture

  • 1 pound ahi tuna (sushi grade, finely chopped)
  • 3 tablespoons Japanese Kewpie mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons Sriracha
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce (for sushi and sashimi preferred)
  • 2 teaspoons sesame oil
  • 1-2 teaspoons lime juice (to taste)

Garnishes

  • Avocado (thinly sliced)
  • Toasted sesame seeds
  • Chives or scallions (minced)
  • Jalapeño or serrano pepper (sliced)
  • Vegetable oil for frying (about 1/2 to 3/4 cup)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Rice: Rinse the sushi rice thoroughly 4-5 times until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Combine the rinsed rice with 2 cups of water and 1 teaspoon of salt in a rice cooker, then cook according to the rice cooker's instructions.
  2. Season the Rice: In a small bowl, mix 3 tablespoons of rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil until the sugar is fully dissolved. Once the rice is cooked, transfer it to a large bowl and fold in the seasoning mixture evenly while the rice is still warm to infuse flavor.
  3. Shape and Chill the Rice: Line a small square baking tray with plastic wrap, then spread the seasoned rice evenly into the tray pressing it down to form a 1/2-inch-thick, compact square block. Wrap the rice block with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight. Alternatively, freeze it for about 30 minutes to firm it up, making it easier to cut.
  4. Cut the Rice: Remove the chilled rice block from the tray and cut it into bite-sized rectangular pieces suitable for pan-frying and serving.
  5. Pan-fry the Rice: Heat about 1/2 to 3/4 cup of vegetable oil in a medium skillet over high heat for approximately 30 seconds until hot. Carefully place the rice pieces into the skillet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each to ensure even cooking. Cook on medium-high heat for about 3 minutes or until the bottoms are golden brown, then flip and cook the other side for another 2-3 minutes until crispy and golden. Remove the rice from the skillet and place on a wire rack set over a lined baking sheet to drain excess oil.
  6. Prepare the Spicy Tuna: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped ahi tuna, 3 tablespoons of Kewpie mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of Sriracha, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 2 teaspoons of sesame oil, and 1-2 teaspoons of lime juice to taste. Mix all ingredients thoroughly until well combined and evenly coated.
  7. Assemble the Crispy Rice Bites: On each piece of crispy rice, layer thin slices of avocado. Spoon 1 to 2 tablespoons of the spicy tuna mixture on top of the avocado. Garnish each piece with toasted sesame seeds, minced chives or scallions, and a thin slice of jalapeño or serrano pepper for an added kick and visual appeal.

Notes

  • Ensure to use sushi-grade ahi tuna for safety and best flavor since it is consumed raw.
  • Rinsing the sushi rice multiple times removes excess starch, which prevents the rice from becoming gummy.
  • Chilling the rice before frying helps it hold its shape and crisp up evenly.
  • Adjust the amount of sriracha and jalapeño according to your heat preference.
  • Use a high smoke point oil like vegetable or canola oil for frying the rice to achieve crispiness.
  • These crispy rice bites are best served immediately after assembly to enjoy the contrast of textures.

Find it online: https://recipefeastful.com/spicy-tuna-crispy-rice-recipe/