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Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice Recipe

5 from 61 reviews

Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice is a delightful fusion appetizer featuring crunchy, pan-fried rice formed into hearts and topped with a creamy, spicy tuna mixture. This recipe transforms leftover rice into a flavorful base that crisps to golden perfection, complemented by a zesty, tangy tuna topping with mayonnaise, sriracha, jalapeños, and aromatic herbs for a perfect bite that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale

Rice Base

  • 200g leftover rice
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)

Tuna Topping

  • 200g tuna
  • 2 tbsp mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp sriracha sauce
  • 1 tbsp jalapeños (from a tin or fresh, finely chopped)
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • Pinch of sea salt
  • 1 tsp mild chili flakes
  • 1 tsp garlic flakes
  • 2 tsp chopped coriander

Instructions

  1. Shape the Rice: Take your leftover rice and divide it evenly into four portions. Press each portion firmly into a heart-shaped tin, compressing the rice well to ensure it holds its shape. Once all four tins are filled, place them in the freezer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is firm enough to handle without falling apart.
  2. Prepare the Tuna Topping: While the rice chills, combine the tuna, mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, finely chopped jalapeños, black pepper, sea salt, mild chili flakes, garlic flakes, and chopped coriander in a bowl. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated. Set this spicy tuna mixture aside.
  3. Fry the Rice Hearts: After freezing, carefully pop the rice hearts out of their tins. Heat a non-stick frying pan over high heat and add a tablespoon of vegetable oil. Place the rice hearts into the pan and fry for 5 minutes on one side until the bottom turns a golden brown with crispy edges. Flip them gently and cook for another 5 minutes to ensure even crispiness on both sides.
  4. Serve: Remove the crispy rice hearts from the pan and plate them. Generously spoon the spicy tuna topping on each rice heart. Garnish with extra chili flakes, garlic flakes, and coriander if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy this crunchy, flavorful appetizer!

Notes

  • Use leftover rice that has been refrigerated for best results; freshly cooked rice is too moist and will not crisp well.
  • You can substitute tuna with cooked salmon or cooked crab meat to vary the topping.
  • Adjust the amount of sriracha and jalapeños to control the spice level according to your preference.
  • Freezing the rice hearts before frying is essential to maintain their shape and help achieve a crispy exterior.
  • Use a non-stick pan and enough oil to prevent sticking and promote even browning.
  • Serve immediately after frying to enjoy the contrast of crispy rice and creamy tuna topping.

Keywords: spicy tuna, crispy rice, appetizer, leftover rice recipe, pan-fried rice, sriracha, jalapeños, seafood appetizer