Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice (Nobu Copycat) | Bold Flavor in Every Bite

Bringing restaurant-style flair to your home kitchen, this spicy tuna crispy rice is the kind of dish that turns heads and wins compliments. Inspired by the famous appetizer from Nobu, it’s a combination of warm, crunchy rice squares topped with creamy, flavorful spicy tuna and garnished with avocado and jalapeño for a punchy finish. It’s the ultimate combination of heat, crunch, and cool, all in one addictive bite.

What makes this recipe a go-to is how accessible it is. With simple ingredients and a few smart steps, you can recreate a high-end appetizer that feels luxurious without being complicated.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are a lot of reasons to keep this dish on rotation:

• You get that crispy rice texture on the outside with a soft interior that holds up to toppings.
• The spicy tuna mixture is creamy, tangy, and full of umami flavor.
• It’s ideal for impressing guests or treating yourself with something special.

No matter the occasion, this spicy tuna crispy rice is a showstopper that delivers on taste and texture.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create these delicious bites, you’ll need a handful of essential ingredients for the rice base, the tuna topping, and the finishing touches.

Sushi Rice

• 1.5 cups sushi rice – Use short-grain rice for stickiness and shape-holding structure.
• 2 cups water – The ideal amount to cook your rice evenly.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Boosts the flavor of the rice during cooking.
• 3 tablespoons rice vinegar – Brings balance with tangy acidity.
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar – A hint of sweetness rounds out the flavor.
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil – Offers a rich, nutty aroma that pairs well with the tuna.

Spicy Tuna

• 1 pound ahi tuna (sushi-grade), minced – Make sure it’s high-quality for flavor and safety.
• 3 tablespoons Kewpie mayo – A Japanese-style mayonnaise that adds depth and creaminess.
• 2 tablespoons Sriracha – Delivers heat with just the right amount of sweetness.
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce – Brings a savory, umami backbone to the mix.
• 2 teaspoons sesame oil – Adds a roasted flavor that enhances the overall profile.
• 1 to 2 teaspoons lime juice – Gives a citrusy lift to cut through the richness.

Garnishes

• Avocado, thinly sliced – Creamy and cooling to balance the spice.
• Toasted sesame seeds – Add texture and nutty flavor.
• Chives or scallions, finely chopped – Give a pop of freshness and color.
• Jalapeño or serrano, thinly sliced – Optional for added heat and boldness.

Note: Always handle raw tuna carefully. Store it cold and consume it on the same day.

How to Make Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice

This dish has three components: the rice block, the spicy tuna mixture, and the assembly. By following the steps below, you’ll have restaurant-worthy bites that are sure to impress.

Chilling the rice before cutting is a key part of the process. It keeps the rice from falling apart when you fry it and helps it hold its shape when topped.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Sushi Rice
Thoroughly rinse the sushi rice under cool water until it runs clear. This step removes extra starch that can make the rice gummy. Add the rinsed rice to a rice cooker or pot with 2 cups of water and 1 teaspoon of salt. Cook until tender.

Step 2: Season the Cooked Rice
In a separate bowl, stir together the rice vinegar, sugar, and sesame oil until the sugar has dissolved. Once the rice is done, transfer it to a mixing bowl and gently fold in the vinegar mixture while the rice is still warm.

Step 3: Shape and Chill the Rice
Line a square baking dish with plastic wrap and press the seasoned rice into it, spreading it evenly to about 1/2 inch thick. Cover and refrigerate for at least an hour to let it set. You can also freeze it for about 30 minutes if you’re short on time.

Step 4: Cut the Rice into Squares
Remove the rice from the pan and place it on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, cut the rice block into small rectangles. Clean the knife between slices to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Fry the Rice Until Crispy
Heat a thin layer of neutral oil in a skillet over medium-high. Once hot, add the rice pieces, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook each side for 2 to 3 minutes or until a crisp, golden crust forms. Transfer to a wire rack or paper towel to drain.

Step 6: Mix the Spicy Tuna
In a mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped tuna with Kewpie mayo, Sriracha, soy sauce, sesame oil, and lime juice. Stir until fully blended and creamy. Taste and adjust the spice or citrus level to your preference.

Step 7: Assemble the Bites
Place a thin slice of avocado on each piece of crispy rice. Spoon the spicy tuna mixture on top. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds, minced chives or scallions, and finish with a jalapeño or serrano slice if desired.

Helpful Tips

• Always rinse your rice well before cooking to get the best texture.
• Chilling the rice is essential so it doesn’t fall apart when sliced or fried.
• Use a sharp knife and dampen it between cuts for clean edges.
• Serve the assembled bites fresh for maximum crunch and flavor.

Details

Flavor:
The taste is bold and balanced—spicy tuna layered over tangy sushi rice with creamy avocado and a pop of heat from jalapeño.

Texture:
Crunchy rice, smooth avocado, and creamy tuna create a layered mouthfeel in each bite.

Occasion:
Perfect for special occasions, appetizers, or when you want to treat yourself to something gourmet.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes

Notes (Optional Variations or Substitutions)

• If you don’t have Kewpie mayo, regular mayonnaise can be used with a splash of rice vinegar and a pinch of sugar.
• Not a fan of raw fish? Swap in smoked tuna or cooked salmon for a different take.
• For an extra boost of umami, sprinkle furikake over the top before serving.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

Calories	Carbohydrates	Protein	Fat	Sugar
184 kcal	21 g	11 g	6 g	1 g

These are estimated values and can vary depending on the exact ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What’s the best kind of tuna for this dish?
Sushi-grade ahi tuna is ideal. It’s safe to eat raw and has a clean, buttery texture that’s perfect for this recipe.

How do I make the rice extra crispy?
Chill the rice fully before slicing and use hot oil to sear each piece evenly until golden on both sides.

What makes the tuna spicy?
Sriracha and Kewpie mayo give it that creamy, spicy kick, with soy and lime balancing the flavors.

Can I prep this dish in advance?
You can fry the rice ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Reheat it in the oven before adding the toppings for a fresh-out-of-the-pan crunch.

Storage Instructions

• Crispy Rice: Can be stored for up to two days and reheated in a hot oven for 5 to 8 minutes.
• Tuna Mixture: Should be prepared fresh and used the same day for best quality.
• Fully Assembled Bites: Best served immediately to preserve the texture and freshness.

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Conclusion

If you’re looking for a dish that’s both eye-catching and full of flavor, this spicy tuna crispy rice delivers on all fronts. It brings the heat, the crunch, and the satisfaction of a gourmet dish without requiring complex steps. Whether you’re hosting or just elevating your evening snack, this appetizer feels like a treat every time. Try it once, and it may just become your favorite way to serve sushi at home.

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