Description
Nobu Crispy Rice Spicy Tuna is a celebrated dish, renowned for its harmonious blend of textures and flavors. This appetizer combines the satisfying crunch of perfectly prepared crispy rice with the creamy, spicy kick of tuna, all while showcasing the simplicity and elegance that Nobu restaurants are known for. It’s not just a dish; it’s an experience – a symphony of sensations that dance across your palate, leaving you craving more.
Ingredients
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- 2 cups cooked sushi rice (short-grain rice)
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- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
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- 1 teaspoon sugar
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- ½ teaspoon salt
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- 1 pound sushi-grade tuna, finely diced
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- 4 tablespoons mayonnaise
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- 2–3 tablespoons sriracha (or other chili sauce), adjust to taste
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- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
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- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
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- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, toasted
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- 2 scallions, thinly sliced
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- Neutral cooking oil (e.g., canola, vegetable, or avocado oil), for frying
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- Optional: Avocado slices, finely chopped nori seaweed
Instructions
Prepare the Sushi Rice:
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Season the Rice: In a small bowl, combine rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Mix until the sugar and salt are dissolved.
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Combine with Rice: Gently fold the seasoned mixture into the cooked sushi rice, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Be careful not to mash the rice.
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Cool the Rice: Allow the rice to cool slightly for easier handling.
Form the Rice Cakes:
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Press the Rice: Line a baking sheet or shallow dish with plastic wrap. Spread the seasoned rice evenly over the plastic wrap, pressing down firmly to create a compact layer about ¾ inch thick.
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Chill the Rice: Cover the rice with another layer of plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour, to firm up.
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Cut into Squares: Remove the rice from the refrigerator and carefully invert it onto a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to cut the rice into small squares or rectangles (about 1.5-2 inches).
Prepare the Spicy Tuna:
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Combine Tuna and Seasonings: In a medium bowl, gently combine the diced sushi-grade tuna with mayonnaise, sriracha, sesame oil, and soy sauce. Mix well, being careful not to overmix, which can make the tuna mushy.
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Adjust Spice Level: Taste the mixture and adjust the amount of sriracha to your desired level of spiciness.
Fry the Rice Cakes:
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Heat the Oil: Pour a generous amount of neutral cooking oil into a large skillet or deep fryer, about ½ inch deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches approximately 350°F (175°C).
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Fry the Rice Cakes: Carefully place the rice cakes into the hot oil in a single layer, being sure not to overcrowd the pan.
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Fry until Golden: Fry for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the rice cakes are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon or spatula to carefully flip the rice cakes and fry the other side.
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Drain Excess Oil: Remove the fried rice cakes from the oil and place them on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Assemble and Serve:
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Top with Spicy Tuna: Place the crispy rice cakes on a serving platter. Spoon a generous amount of the spicy tuna mixture onto each rice cake.
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Garnish: Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and thinly sliced scallions.
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Optional Garnishes: Add avocado slices or finely chopped nori seaweed for extra flavor and visual appeal.
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Serve Immediately: Serve the Nobu Crispy Rice Spicy Tuna immediately while the rice is still warm and crispy.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 350-400 kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 18g