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Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice

A homemade version of the popular Nobu appetizer featuring crispy golden-brown sushi rice topped with creamy, spicy tuna tartare, avocado, and jalapeƱo.
Prep Time 40 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: Fusion, Japanese
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

Crispy Rice Base
  • 2 cups sushi rice (uncooked) short-grain
  • 2.5 cups water
  • 0.33 cup rice vinegar
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 cup vegetable oil for frying
Spicy Tuna Topping
  • 0.5 lb sashimi-grade tuna finely diced
  • 2 tbsp Kewpie mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp sriracha adjust to taste
  • 0.5 tsp sesame oil
  • 1 tsp soy sauce
  • 1 stalk scallion finely chopped
Garnishes
  • 1 avocado sliced
  • 1 jalapeno thinly sliced
  • 1 tsp black sesame seeds

Equipment

  • Saucepan or Rice Cooker
  • 8x8 inch square pan
  • Frying pan or skillet
  • Sharp knife

Method
 

  1. Rinse sushi rice until water runs clear. Cook in a rice cooker or stovetop according to package directions.
  2. Mix rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Fold into the hot cooked rice gently.
  3. Line an 8x8 inch pan with plastic wrap. Press rice firmly into the pan to create an even layer. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight).
  4. Remove chilled rice block and cut into uniform rectangles (approx 2x1 inches).
  5. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry rice cakes for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Drain on wire rack.
  6. In a bowl, mix diced tuna, mayo, sriracha, sesame oil, soy sauce, and chopped scallions.
  7. Assemble by placing a slice of avocado on the crispy rice, topping with a spoonful of spicy tuna, and garnishing with a jalapeno slice and sesame seeds.
  8. Serve immediately while rice is warm and crispy.

Notes

Ensure you buy high-quality sashimi-grade fish. Do not skip the chilling step for the rice, or it will fall apart in the oil.