Crispy Tuna Bites with Avocado (Printable version)

Crispy rice topped with spicy tuna and avocado, ideal for gatherings.

# Ingredient list:

→ Sushi Rice

01 - 1 cup sushi rice
02 - 1 1/4 cups water
03 - 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
04 - 1 tablespoon sugar
05 - 1/2 teaspoon salt

→ Spicy Tuna Mixture

06 - 200 grams sushi-grade tuna, finely diced
07 - 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (preferably Kewpie)
08 - 1-2 teaspoons Sriracha (to taste)
09 - 1 teaspoon soy sauce
10 - 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
11 - 1 green onion, finely chopped

→ Crispy Rice

12 - Cooked sushi rice (from above), cooled
13 - Neutral oil, for frying

→ Toppings

14 - 1 avocado, thinly sliced
15 - 1-2 teaspoons sesame seeds
16 - Extra Sriracha or spicy mayo, for drizzling
17 - Optional: sliced jalapeño, microgreens

# Step-by-step guide:

01 - Rinse the rice well and combine with water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then simmer covered for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let stand for 10 minutes. Transfer to a bowl, stir in rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Cool completely.
02 - Line a tray with plastic wrap. Press cooled rice into a flat, compact 1-inch thick layer. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Cut into rectangles or squares. Heat neutral oil in a skillet over medium-high. Fry rice pieces until golden and crispy, 2-3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
03 - In a bowl, combine diced tuna, mayonnaise, Sriracha, soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onion. Mix gently and chill.
04 - Place a slice of avocado on each crispy rice square. Top with spicy tuna mixture. Garnish with sesame seeds, extra Sriracha or spicy mayo, and optional toppings.
05 - Serve immediately for maximum crispiness.

# Expert tips:

01 -
  • Party-perfect appetizer that’s as delicious as it is photogenic
  • Combines crispy, creamy, spicy, and fresh elements in every bite
  • Customizable spice level for all palates
  • Pescatarian-friendly and crowd-pleasing
  • Great make-ahead potential for rice and tuna mixture
02 -
  • Always use very fresh, sushi-grade tuna for safety and best texture
  • Keep your hands lightly wet while shaping rice to prevent sticking
  • The rice layer can be molded the day before and chilled overnight
  • For extra crunch, let the fried rice rectangles rest a minute on paper towels before assembling
  • Double the spicy tuna mixture for a more generously topped bite
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