Onigiri with Tuna Mayo

Onigiri, the delightful Japanese rice balls, are not only a staple of Japanese cuisine but also a perfect on-the-go snack that combines simplicity and flavor. This version, filled with tuna and mayonnaise, is sure to please your palate while being easy to prepare. Let’s dive into making these delicious tuna mayo onigiri!

Ingredients

• 2 cups hot cooked rice (preferably Japanese short-grain rice)
• 1 teaspoon sushi vinegar
• 1 teaspoon nori flakes (seaweed powder)
• 1 can tuna in oil, drained
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 4 sheets of nori (seaweed sheets)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Rice Mixture:
   In a mixing bowl, combine the hot cooked rice, sushi vinegar, and nori flakes. Gently mix the ingredients until the rice is evenly coated, ensuring a lovely flavor and aroma permeates every grain.

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2. Make the Tuna Filling:
   In a separate bowl, mix the drained tuna with mayonnaise until well combined. This mixture will create a creamy, savory filling that perfectly complements the rice.

3. Shape the Onigiri:
   To form the onigiri, take a portion of the rice mixture and press it into a mold or your hands. Create a small indentation in the center and fill it with the tuna mixture. Cover the tuna with more rice, pressing gently to compact it. If you don’t have a mold, simply shape the rice into a triangular or oval form using plastic wrap to help you mold it without sticking.

4. Wrap with Nori:
   Once your onigiri is shaped, take a sheet of nori and wrap it around the rice ball. For a traditional presentation, larger sheets of nori that cover the entire surface are ideal, but if you only have smaller sheets, don’t worry! Just use what you have, and your onigiri will still be delightful.

5. Serve and Enjoy:
   Your tuna mayo onigiri is now ready to be enjoyed! These rice balls can be served as a snack, part of a bento box, or a light meal. They are not only delicious but also portable, making them perfect for picnics or lunch.

Tips for the Best Onigiri

• For an added layer of flavor, consider mixing in some chopped scallions or a dash of soy sauce into the tuna mixture.
• If you like a little spice, adding a touch of wasabi or sriracha to the mayo can elevate the flavor profile.
• Experiment with different fillings such as pickled vegetables or grilled salmon to create variations that suit your taste.

With these simple steps, you can create flavorful onigiri that not only satisfies hunger but also brings a taste of Japan to your dining table. Happy cooking!