High Protein Tuna Mayo Onigiri

Elevate your snack game with this High-Protein Tuna Mayo Onigiri, a delicious Japanese-inspired rice ball that’s perfect for meal prep, lunchboxes, or on-the-go bites. Made with fluffy short-grain rice, a creamy protein-packed tuna and low-fat mayo filling, and a savory hint of soy sauce, these onigiri are as nutritious as they are satisfying. The optional kick of sriracha or chili flakes adds a customizable touch of heat, while toasted sesame seeds bring a nutty finishing flair. Wrapped in crisp nori sheets for easy handling, these handheld delights come together in just 20 minutes of prep and are rich in flavor and texture. Whether served fresh or enjoyed as a quick snack from the fridge, these homemade onigiri are the ultimate fusion of health and convenience.

Nutriscore Rating: 71/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 2 cups short-grain white rice
• 2.5 cups water
• 1 can (5 oz) canned tuna (in water, drained)
• 3 tablespoons low-fat mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• 0.25 teaspoon sea salt
• 4 sheets nori sheets (seaweed, cut into rectangles)
• 1 teaspoon optional filling: sriracha or chili flakes
• 1 tablespoon optional garnish: toasted sesame seeds

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.

Step 2

Combine the rinsed rice and 2.5 cups of water in a rice cooker. Cook according to the rice cooker's instructions. If using a pot, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Cook for 15-18 minutes, or until the water is absorbed. Allow the rice to sit for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.

Step 3

While the rice cooks, prepare the filling. In a bowl, mix the drained tuna, low-fat mayonnaise, soy sauce, and sea salt until well combined. If desired, add a teaspoon of sriracha or chili flakes for some spice.

Step 4

Wet your hands lightly with water to prevent the rice from sticking. Take a handful of warm rice (about 1/2 cup) and form it into a flat round disc in your palm.

Step 5

Place about 1 tablespoon of the tuna mayo filling in the center. Fold the rice around the filling, shaping it into a triangle or ball. Press firmly yet gently to ensure the onigiri holds together.

Step 6

Wrap the bottom of each onigiri with a strip of nori, shiny side out. This makes them easier to hold and eat.

Step 7

Repeat the process with the remainder of the rice and filling.

Step 8

Optionally, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top for extra flavor before serving.

Step 9

Serve fresh or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, wrap in a damp paper towel and microwave for 20-30 seconds.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1097.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	720.6

Total Fat 15.0g	0%
Saturated Fat 2.5g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 6.1g
Cholesterol 17.5mg	0%
Sodium 1386.5mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 123.2g	0%
Dietary Fiber 3.0g	0%
Total Sugars 3.2g
Protein 20.0g	0%

Vitamin D 22.7IU	0%
Calcium 162.5mg	0%
Iron 2.5mg	0%
Potassium 348.2mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 19.1%

Protein: 11.3%

Carbs: 69.6%