Crispy Rice with Spicy Tuna Salad

Pantry Staples Turn Gourmet: An Affordable Twist on Sushi Flavors

Crispy Rice with Spicy Tuna Salad

Embracing the viral crispy rice trend, I crafted this recipe out of convenience and the need for a budget-friendly alternative to spicy salmon sushi. Using ingredients typically found in your pantry, like canned tuna, this Crispy Rice with Spicy Tuna Salad provides an accessible yet deliciously gourmet experience. It’s the perfect solution for when you want to whip up something special without a trip to the store or splurging on expensive ingredients, proving that great flavors don't have to come at a high cost.

Ingredients -

- 2.5 cups of cooked sushi rice (or round rice)

- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar

- 2 tablespoons sugar

- 1/2 teaspoon salt

- Butter

- Neutral oil for frying

- For garnish - Sliced avocado, Scallions, Black sesame seeds

For the Spicy Tuna Salad:

- 1 can of tuna, drained

- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise

- 1 tablespoon sriracha

- 1 teaspoon sesame oil

- 1 teaspoon lemon juice

- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds

Instructions -

1. In a small mixing bowl, combine vinegar, sugar, and salt.

2. Gradually add the vinegar mixture to the rice while mixing until combined.

3. Prepare a small rectangular non-stick silicone mold (or use a small rectangular baking tray lined with a baking sheet). Melt a little bit of butter and apply generously to all the molds.

4. Transfer the rice into the molds. Prepare a bowl with water, and using the back of a small glass, press the rice until it is completely flattened, wetting it frequently to keep the rice from sticking. If using a tray, you can also place another tray on top and apply pressure. Aim for about 2 cm (1 inch) in height. Refrigerate for 2-3 hours.

5. Remove the rice from the fridge and cut into preferred rectangle sizes.

6. In a pan, heat oil over medium-high heat, enough to shallow fry the rice. Once the oil is hot, fry the rice until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes each side. Work carefully without overcrowding the pan. Transfer to a cooling rack to keep the rice crispy. Let cool.

7. Top each piece of crispy rice with about a half tablespoon of the spicy tuna salad, then garnish with sliced avocado, scallions, and black sesame seeds.

This Crispy Rice with Spicy Tuna Salad is not only a trendy dish but also an economical and convenient choice that delivers big on flavor. Enjoy this unique twist on sushi at your next gathering or as a treat for yourself!

Have you tried this? please let me know what you think in the comments! feel free to ask any questions :)