Every bite of Nobu Crispy Rice Spicy Tuna feels like a little fiesta in your mouth. This appetizer from the famed Nobu restaurants takes humble sushi rice and transforms it into golden, crunchy pillows topped with creamy, spicy tuna. Crispy, savory, and packed with umami, this spicy tuna treat is a must-try for sushi lovers! As you savor each bite, you’ll notice the perfectly balanced tang of rice vinegar in the rice patty, the gentle sweetness from a touch of sugar, and that unmistakable richness from fresh sushi-grade tuna. It’s an intermediate-level recipe that asks for around 45 minutes of prep, 10 minutes of cooking, and 30 minutes of resting time—but trust me, the effort you put in is worth every second. With 600 calories per serving, these little bites hold their own at dinner parties, casual gatherings, or even an intimate night in.
I still remember the first time I made these in my cramped home kitchen. My countertop was plastered with bowls, my pan sizzled away, and I couldn’t help but taste-test the spicy tuna mixture straight from the bowl—just to make sure it had the perfect kick of sriracha and creamy mayo. The result was nothing short of magical: each crispy rice square cradled the tuna like a tiny edible treasure. Whether you’re a sushi aficionado or a curious home cook looking to elevate your appetizer game, this recipe has something for everyone. By the time you finish reading, you’ll be ready to share these vibrant bites with friends, family, and anyone else lucky enough to snag one off your platter.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN NOBU CRISPY RICE SPICY TUNA
Before diving into the cooking steps, let’s get acquainted with the stars of this recipe. Each ingredient plays a pivotal role in creating the contrast of textures and layers of flavor that make these crispy rice bites unforgettable.
- Sushi Rice
This short-grain rice becomes wonderfully sticky when cooked, giving the patties their compact structure and chewy texture after frying.
- Rice Vinegar
Adds a gentle tang that brightens the rice, balancing the richness of the tuna topping and enhancing its umami profile.
- Sugar
A hint of sweetness that mellows the vinegar’s acidity and brings harmony to the rice seasoning.
- Salt
Essential for seasoning the rice and amplifying all the other flavors in each bite.
- Fresh Sushi-Grade Tuna
Finely chopped for a silky, melt-in-your-mouth quality that pairs beautifully with the crunchy rice base.
- Mayonnaise
Creates a creamy binding agent in the spicy tuna mixture, providing a luscious mouthfeel.
- Sriracha Sauce
Brings the heat with its signature chili tang, giving the tuna a delightful kick.
- Soy Sauce
Introduces a savory depth and salty complexity to the tuna mix.
- Sesame Oil
A few drops offer a toasty, nutty aroma that elevates the overall flavor profile.
- Green Onion
Adds freshness and a mild bite to the spicy tuna topping, brightening each mouthful.
- Vegetable Oil
Used for frying the rice patties until they turn beautifully golden and crispy.
- Soy Sauce (for dipping)
A classic accompaniment that enhances the sushi vibe and gives an extra burst of saltiness.
- Toasted Sesame Seeds (optional)
A simple garnish that adds a delicate crunch and visual appeal.
- Finely Sliced Jalapeño (optional)
For those who want an extra pop of spice and a vibrant green accent on each piece.
HOW TO MAKE NOBU CRISPY RICE SPICY TUNA
Let’s roll up our sleeves and bring all these ingredients together. In this section, you’ll find clear, detailed steps to guide you through everything from cooking and seasoning your rice to frying those crunchy patties and assembling the final spicy tuna topping.
1. Cook the sushi rice according to package instructions. Once tender, remove from heat and let it cool slightly. In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until dissolved. Gently fold this mixture into the warm rice, coating each grain evenly. Spread the rice on a tray to cool completely—this step is crucial for shaping.
2. Shape the cooled rice into small rectangular or oval patties, pressing firmly so they’re compact and won’t fall apart. Arrange them on a tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps the rice hold its form during frying.
3. Meanwhile, combine the finely chopped tuna, mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, and chopped green onion in a bowl. Use a spoon to mix until every bit of tuna is coated. Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning if needed. Cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to assemble.
4. Heat a generous layer of vegetable oil in a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, carefully fry the rice patties in batches, about 3–5 minutes per side, until they’re golden and crispy. Transfer them to a paper towel–lined plate to drain any excess oil.
5. To assemble, spoon a heaping portion of the spicy tuna mixture onto each crispy rice piece, gently pressing it down so it clings. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and top with a thin slice of jalapeño, if using.
6. Serve immediately with soy sauce on the side for dipping, and watch these savory bites disappear!
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR NOBU CRISPY RICE SPICY TUNA
Serving these crispy rice delights is all about showcasing their textures and flavors while making them easy to enjoy. Whether you’re planning a casual game night or an elegant dinner party, presenting them thoughtfully elevates the experience. Use a clean, flat platter to lay out the bites in neat rows or a circular pattern for instant visual appeal. Keep the soy sauce in a small dipping bowl and scatter a few extra jalapeño slices on the platter for color contrast. Here are four fun ideas to turn your homemade appetizer into a crowd-pleasing showstopper:
- Colorful Platter Display
Arrange the crispy rice pieces in alternating rows, sprinkling extra toasted sesame seeds and tiny dots of sriracha around the edge. The pop of red and black against the white plate creates an eye-catching presentation.
- Interactive Dipping Station
Place small bowls of soy sauce, spicy mayo, and ponzu around the platter. Let guests customize their flavor journey by mixing and matching sauces.
- Herb Garnish Bar
Offer small dishes of fresh cilantro, microgreens, and thinly sliced scallions. Allow everyone to top their own bites, adding bursts of green and fresh aroma.
- Beverage Pairing
Serve alongside iced green tea, sparkling water with yuzu, or a crisp sake. The refreshing drinks perfectly counterbalance the rich, spicy tuna and maintain a palate-cleansing flow.
HOW TO STORE NOBU CRISPY RICE SPICY TUNA
Leftovers (if you’re lucky enough to have any) deserve proper storage to maintain their signature textures and flavors. It’s best to separate components when stashing them away. Keep the crispy rice patties and spicy tuna topping in different containers to prevent sogginess. Here are a few practical methods to ensure they stay as fresh as possible:
- Airtight Refrigeration
Place the rice patties in a single layer inside an airtight container, lined with a paper towel to absorb moisture. Store the spicy tuna in a separate container, sealed tightly. Both can stay fresh for up to 48 hours.
- Reheat for Crispiness
When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, preheat your oven or air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Reheat the rice patties for 3–4 minutes until they regain their crunch, then top with the chilled tuna mixture.
- Freezing Components
If you want to extend shelf life, flash-freeze the rice patties on a baking sheet for 1 hour, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Keep them for up to one month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Avoid Microwave Sogginess
Steer clear of microwaving the patties; this leads to a loss of crisp texture. Always opt for a dry heat method to maintain that signature golden crunch.
CONCLUSION
Making Nobu Crispy Rice Spicy Tuna at home can be a delightful culinary adventure. From the gentle seasoning of sushi rice with rice vinegar, sugar, and salt, to the first satisfying sizzle as the patties hit the hot oil, every moment of this recipe invites you to engage with your ingredients. The creamy, spicy tuna topping brings heat and richness, while optional garnishes like sesame seeds and jalapeño slices add visual flair and extra layers of flavor. This recipe is perfect for those looking to impress guests or simply treat themselves to a vibrant appetizer that’s equal parts fun and sophisticated. Don’t forget to print this article and save it for later use—whether you’re planning a weekend snack session or prepping for a special gathering, having these tips and steps at your fingertips will make the process a breeze. You can also find a FAQ below to address any lingering questions about techniques or ingredient swaps.
I’d love to hear how your homemade Crispy Rice Spicy Tuna turns out! If you give this recipe a try, drop a comment, share your tweaks, or ask any questions you might have about the steps. Your feedback helps me keep everything home cooks need in one place. Happy frying, and may your next bite be crispier and spicier than ever!
Nobu Crispy Rice Spicy Tuna
Description
Each crunchy rice patty is topped with a flavorful mix of sushi-grade tuna, creamy mayo, and a kick of sriracha. Perfect for gatherings or as a vibrant appetizer!
Ingredients
Instructions
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Cook the sushi rice according to package instructions. Once cooked, allow it to cool slightly. Mix the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt together, then gently fold this mixture into the rice. Allow the rice to cool completely.
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Shape the cooled rice into small rectangular or oval patties, ensuring they're compact and firm. Place them on a tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to help set.
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Meanwhile, prepare the spicy tuna topping. In a bowl, combine the finely chopped tuna, mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, and chopped green onion. Mix well until fully combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Refrigerate until ready to use.
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Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the rice patties into the oil. Fry them until golden and crispy on both sides, about 3-5 minutes per side. Remove them from the oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
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To assemble, place a spoonful of the spicy tuna mixture on top of each crispy rice piece. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and a slice of jalapeño if desired.
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Serve immediately with soy sauce on the side for dipping.
Note
- For an extra kick, add a bit more sriracha to the tuna mixture.
- Make sure the rice patties are well chilled and compact to ensure they hold together while frying.
- Freshness and quality of the tuna are essential for achieving the best flavor.
- This dish is perfect for sharing at social gatherings or as an appetizer at dinner parties.
- Feel free to experiment with additional toppings or garnishes to personalize your dish.
