Golden pan-fried rice squares topped with creamy, spicy tuna and avocado for a bold, textural appetizer.
# What's Needed:
→ Sushi Rice
01 - 1 cup sushi rice
02 - 1 1/4 cups water
03 - 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
04 - 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
05 - 1/2 teaspoon fine salt
→ Spicy Tuna Mixture
06 - 6 ounces sushi-grade tuna, finely diced
07 - 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (preferably Japanese-style)
08 - 2 teaspoons Sriracha or other chili sauce
09 - 1 teaspoon soy sauce
10 - 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
11 - 1 green onion, thinly sliced
12 - 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
→ For Frying
13 - 1/2 cup vegetable oil (for shallow pan-frying)
→ Garnish
14 - 1 small avocado, sliced
15 - Extra thinly sliced green onion
16 - Microgreens or nori strips (optional)
# How To Make It:
01 - Rinse the sushi rice under cold running water until the water runs clear. Combine the rice and water in a medium pot, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 10 minutes.
02 - Stir together rice vinegar, sugar and salt until dissolved; gently fold the mixture into the warm rice. Spread the seasoned rice evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet and press into a 1/2-inch-thick rectangle. Refrigerate until firm, at least 30 minutes.
03 - Combine the diced tuna, mayonnaise, Sriracha, soy sauce, sesame oil, sliced green onion and toasted sesame seeds in a bowl. Mix until evenly coated and refrigerate until ready to assemble.
04 - Remove the chilled rice rectangle from the refrigerator and cut into 16 even squares or rectangles using a sharp knife. Handle gently to preserve the compact shape.
05 - Heat the vegetable oil in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the rice pieces and pan-fry 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until each side is golden brown and crisp. Transfer to paper towels to drain.
06 - Spoon a portion of the spicy tuna mixture onto each crispy rice square. Top with avocado slices, additional green onion, and microgreens or nori strips if using. Serve immediately to maintain contrast between crisp rice and creamy topping.
