Low Sodium Tuna Rice Ball (Onigiri)

Delight in the simplicity and wholesome flavors of these Low Sodium Tuna Rice Balls (Onigiri), a healthier twist on a beloved Japanese classic. Perfectly seasoned with low-sodium soy sauce and rice vinegar, the tender short-grain rice encases a savory tuna filling, offering a satisfying balance of taste and nutrition. Topped with optional creamy mayo and wrapped in unseasoned nori, these rice balls are as fun to make as they are to eat. Whether sprinkled with sesame seeds for a touch of crunch or enjoyed plain, they’re ideal as a portable, heart-healthy snack or a light meal. With just 20 minutes of prep and simple ingredients, this recipe proves that low-sodium doesn’t have to mean low flavor!

Nutriscore Rating: 76/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 cups Short-grain Japanese rice
• 2.5 cups Water
• 1 can (5 oz) Canned tuna (low sodium, drained)
• 1 teaspoon Low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon Japanese rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Mayonnaise (optional, low-sodium preferred)
• 2 sheets Nori sheets (seaweed, unseasoned and low-sodium)
• 1 teaspoon White sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the short-grain Japanese rice in cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.

Step 2

Combine the rinsed rice and water in a rice cooker. Cook according to the rice cooker's instructions. If using a stovetop, bring the water and rice to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the water is fully absorbed. Let it rest for an additional 10 minutes off the heat.

Step 3

While the rice cooks, prepare the tuna filling. In a small bowl, mix the drained low-sodium tuna, low-sodium soy sauce, rice vinegar, and mayonnaise (if using) until well combined.

Step 4

Cut the nori sheets into strips or squares (about 2-inch wide) and set them aside.

Step 5

Once the rice is cooked and slightly cooled (but still warm to handle), wet your hands with water to prevent sticking. Take about 1/3 cup of rice and flatten it into a small round disk in your palm.

Step 6

Spoon about a teaspoon of the tuna mixture into the center of the rice disk. Gently mold the rice around the filling, forming it into a triangular or round shape. Be careful not to leave any gaps where the filling might leak.

Step 7

Wrap a strip or square of nori around one side of the rice ball. If desired, sprinkle lightly with sesame seeds for garnish.

Step 8

Repeat the process with the remaining rice and tuna mixture.

Step 9

Serve immediately or wrap each rice ball individually in plastic wrap to keep them fresh. Enjoy as a healthy low-sodium meal or snack!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1164.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	752.7

Total Fat 6.3g	0%
Saturated Fat 1.3g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0g
Cholesterol 51.6mg	0%
Sodium 269.1mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 118.0g	0%
Dietary Fiber 2.4g	0%
Total Sugars 0.5g
Protein 49.3g	0%

Vitamin D 113.4IU	0%
Calcium 114.9mg	0%
Iron 2.7mg	0%
Potassium 583.8mg	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: 7.8%

Protein: 27.2%

Carbs: 65.0%