16 Japanese Tuna Bun Recipe They're Simply Irresistible!
Published on: Mar 25, 2024
For seafood lovers, Japan is a food paradise. One of the most popular dishes in Japanese cuisine is the tuna bun, a delicious and savory pastry filled with tuna, mayonnaise, and other flavorful ingredients. This easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through creating your own homemade Japanese tuna bun that is sure to impress your family and friends.
Onigiri, also known as Japanese rice balls, are a staple dish in Japanese cuisine. These delicious snacks are made by shaping rice into triangle or ball shapes and filling them with various ingredients.
One popular type of onigiri is the tuna and kimchi onigirazu, also known as the Japanese rice sandwich. This unique take on the traditional onigiri combines the tangy and spicy flavors of kimchi with the savory taste of canned tuna.
To make these onigirazu, simply mix canned tuna with kimchi and place it on top of a layer of rice. Then, wrap the rice and filling in a sheet of seaweed and cut it into bite-sized pieces. It's the perfect on-the-go snack or lunch option.
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Japanese Rainbow Roll
Main Ingredients: Salmon, Tuna, Avocado, Imitation Crab Meat, Cucumber
The Japanese rainbow roll is a colorful and delicious sushi roll that is perfect for any sushi lover. This roll is made by layering different types of fish on top of a California roll, creating a beautiful rainbow effect.
The California roll itself is made with imitation crab, avocado, and cucumber. Then, the top layer of the roll is decorated with slices of tuna, salmon, and yellowtail. Some variations also include shrimp or eel for added flavor.
Not only is this roll visually appealing, but it also offers a variety of flavors and textures in one bite. It's a must-try for anyone who loves sushi.
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Japanese Crispy Fried Rice Balls with Tuna & Orange...
Main Ingredients: Sushi Rice, Spring Onions, Fresh Cilantro, Ginger
For a unique twist on the traditional onigiri, try making Japanese crispy fried rice balls with tuna and orange. These rice balls are coated in panko breadcrumbs and fried until golden brown, giving them a satisfying crunch.
The filling is made with canned tuna, orange zest, and mayonnaise, creating a delicious combination of flavors. These rice balls are perfect as an appetizer or snack and are sure to be a hit at any gathering.
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Tuna and Kimchi Onigirazu aka Japanese Rice Sandwich
Main Ingredients: Short Grain Rice, Nori, Tuna, Vegenaise, English
If you're a fan of spicy and tangy flavors, then the tuna and kimchi onigirazu is a must-try. This onigirazu combines the traditional Japanese rice ball with the popular Korean condiment, kimchi.
The combination of canned tuna and kimchi creates a flavorful and filling filling for this sandwich. It's a great option for those who want a quick and easy lunch or snack that is packed with flavor.
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Japanese Radish Salad with Tuna and Radish Sprouts
Main Ingredients: Daikon, Tuna, Radish Sprouts, Shiso Leaves, Mayonnaise
For a light and refreshing dish, try making a Japanese radish salad with tuna and radish sprouts. This salad is made with thinly sliced radishes, canned tuna, and radish sprouts, all dressed in a light and tangy dressing.
The crunch of the radishes and the mild yet flavorful tuna make for a perfect combination. This salad is a great side dish for any meal or can even be enjoyed on its own for a light lunch.
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Vegetable and Spicy Tuna Maki
Main Ingredients: Sushi Rice, Seasoned Rice Vinegar, Sugar, Salt
Maki rolls are a popular type of sushi that is made by rolling rice and fillings in a sheet of seaweed. One delicious variation is the vegetable and spicy tuna maki, which combines fresh vegetables with a spicy and savory tuna filling.
The vegetables used can vary, but commonly include cucumber, avocado, and carrot. The spicy tuna filling is made by mixing canned tuna with spicy mayo and Sriracha sauce, creating a burst of flavor in each bite.
No list of Japanese recipes would be complete without mentioning sushi rolls. These popular dishes are made by rolling rice, seaweed, and fillings into a cylindrical shape and then slicing into bite-sized pieces.
The fillings for sushi rolls can vary greatly, from raw fish to cooked meats and vegetables. Some popular options include California rolls, spicy tuna rolls, and shrimp tempura rolls.
Sushi rolls are a great way to experience a variety of flavors and textures in one dish and are a must-try for any sushi lover.
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How to make onigiri (Japanese rice balls)
Main Ingredients: White Rice, Sushi Nori, Tuna Packed In Oil, Mayonnaise
If you're interested in making your own onigiri at home, it's actually quite simple. All you need is cooked short-grain Japanese rice, your choice of fillings, and some sheets of seaweed.
To make the traditional triangle-shaped onigiri, wet your hands with water and take a handful of rice. Make an indentation in the center and add your filling before shaping the rice into a triangle. Wrap in seaweed and enjoy!
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Hiyayakko (Japanese Cold Tofu)
Main Ingredients: Silken Tofu, Spring Onion, Ginger, Bonito, Japanese Soy
Hiyayakko, also known as Japanese cold tofu, is a popular appetizer in Japan. It's made with cold tofu topped with various seasonings and toppings, making for a refreshing and light dish.
Some toppings commonly used include green onions, grated ginger, bonito flakes, and soy sauce. It's a great dish to enjoy during the summer months or as a light appetizer before a meal.
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Tuna Sushi Cones
Main Ingredients: Sushi Rice, Seaweed, Rice Wine Vinegar, Nori Sheet
Sushi cones, also known as temaki, are a fun and unique way to enjoy sushi. These cones are made by wrapping a sheet of seaweed around a cone-shaped mold and filling it with sushi rice and your choice of fillings.
A delicious option for filling these cones is canned tuna mixed with mayonnaise and soy sauce. It's a tasty and convenient way to enjoy sushi without having to roll it up into a traditional roll.
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Snowman Sushi
Main Ingredients: Sushi Rice, Nori, Small Carrot, Wasabi Powder, Black
For a fun and festive twist on sushi, try making snowman sushi. This cute and creative dish is perfect for the holiday season and is sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
To make snowman sushi, simply shape sushi rice into three balls of different sizes and stack them on top of each other. Use nori seaweed to create the snowman's face and buttons, and add carrot or cucumber for a scarf.
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Canned Tuna Sushi for Kids
Main Ingredients: Nori Seaweed, Sushi Rice, Tuna, Mayonnaise, Soy Sauce
If you have picky eaters at home, try making canned tuna sushi for kids. This recipe is a great way to introduce sushi to children and is a fun activity for them to help make as well.
Simply mix canned tuna with mayonnaise and spread it on top of sushi rice before rolling it up with a sheet of seaweed. Cut into bite-sized pieces and let your kids decorate them with different toppings like vegetables or sesame seeds.
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Japanese Tuna Poke
Main Ingredients: Sushi Grade Tuna, Soy Sauce, Sesame Oil, Chili Garlic
Tuna poke is a popular Hawaiian dish that has made its way to Japan and become a staple in Japanese cuisine. It's made with diced raw tuna marinated in a combination of soy sauce, sesame oil, and other seasonings.
This dish is often served over a bed of rice and topped with fresh vegetables and avocado. It's a refreshing and flavorful dish that is perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Niku udon, or Japanese meat udon, is a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for cold winter days. This dish is made with thick udon noodles and thinly sliced beef cooked in a flavorful broth.
Some variations also include vegetables such as onions and carrots. It's a filling and delicious meal that is sure to warm you up on a chilly day.
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Niku Udon (Japanese Meat Udon)
Main Ingredients: Water, Kombu, Bonito, Sake, Granulated Sugar, Soy
For a quick and easy meal, try making a Japanese beef rice bowl. This dish, also known as gyudon, is made with thinly sliced beef simmered in a sweet and savory sauce and served over a bed of rice.
Gyudon is a popular dish in Japan and is often served at fast-food chains known as "gyudon restaurants." It's a great option for a weeknight dinner when you're short on time but still want a flavorful and satisfying meal.
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Japanese Beef Rice Bowl
Main Ingredients: Water, Dried Kombu, Bonita, Yellow Onion, Red Onion
Maguro no zuke-don, also known as marinated tuna on rice, is a simple yet delicious dish that is perfect for tuna lovers. This dish is made by marinating raw tuna in a mixture of soy sauce, sake, and mirin before serving it over a bowl of rice.
The marinade infuses the tuna with flavor and creates a delicious sauce for the rice. It's a quick and easy dish that is perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
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Maguro no Zuke-don (Marinated Tuna on Rice)
Main Ingredients: Tuna, Cooked Rice, Sake, Mirin, Soy Sauce, Yakinori
Tuna tartare is a popular dish in many cuisines, including Japanese. This dish is made with finely chopped raw tuna mixed with various seasonings and served as an appetizer or light meal.
Some common ingredients used in a tuna tartare include soy sauce, sesame oil, green onions, and avocado. It's a fresh and flavorful dish that is sure to impress your guests.
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Tuna Tartare
Main Ingredients: Sushi Grade Tuna, Scallions, Tomato, Cilantro Leaves
Hand sushi rolls, also known as temaki, are a fun and interactive way to enjoy sushi. These rolls are made by filling a sheet of seaweed with sushi rice and your choice of fillings and then rolling it up into a cone shape.
A delicious and simple filling option is toro (fatty tuna) and green onions. The fatty tuna adds a rich and buttery flavor while the green onions add a refreshing crunch.
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Toro Green Onion Hand Sushi Rolls
Main Ingredients: Nori, Sushi Rice, Wasabi Paste, Tuna, Green Onion
Another variation of hand sushi rolls is the sushi hand roll. This type of roll is made by using a sheet of seaweed to create a cone shape and then filling it with sushi rice and your choice of fillings.
Some popular options for fillings include salmon, avocado, and cucumber. It's a fun and tasty way to enjoy sushi, and the cone shape makes it easy to eat on the go.
The Perfect Tuna Filling
When it comes to making the perfect Japanese tuna bun, the filling is key. This recipe calls for canned tuna, which is a convenient and budget-friendly option. Make sure to use high-quality tuna packed in water, as it will have a better texture and taste. To give the filling a rich and creamy consistency, we will mix it with mayonnaise and a touch of sweetened condensed milk. The sweetness from the condensed milk adds a unique twist to the traditional tuna bun and balances out the tanginess of the mayonnaise. For an extra burst of flavor, we will also add soy sauce and sake to the mix. These ingredients add depth and umami to the filling, making it irresistible.
Adding Vegetables for Texture and Color
To give our tuna bun some texture and color, we will add finely chopped carrots and green onions to the filling. The carrots add a slight crunch and sweetness, while the green onions provide a pop of freshness. We recommend using a food processor to finely chop the vegetables, as it will save you time and ensure that they are evenly distributed in the filling. Alternatively, you can also use a grater to achieve the desired texture.
Assembling the Bun
Now that our filling is ready, it's time to assemble the bun. Roll out store-bought puff pastry dough and cut it into squares. Place a spoonful of the tuna filling in the center of each square and fold the corners of the dough over the filling, sealing it tightly. Brush the top of the bun with egg wash to give it a shiny and golden crust. Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes until the buns are puffed and golden brown.
Final Thoughts
Japanese tuna buns are a popular snack or light meal in Japan and are now gaining popularity around the world. With this easy and delicious recipe, you can enjoy these savory pastries in the comfort of your own home. Serve them warm with a side of soy sauce for dipping and enjoy the perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors in every bite. Don't be afraid to experiment with different fillings and add your own twist to make these tuna buns your own. Happy cooking!
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