Spicy Tuna Sushi Rolls

Name: Spicy Tuna Sushi Rolls
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup sushi rice; 1 1/4 cups water; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 8 ounces sushi-grade tuna, diced; 2 tablespoons mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon Sriracha sauce; 4 sheets nori (seaweed); 1 avocado, sliced; Soy sauce for serving; Pickled ginger and wasabi for garnish

Highlighted under: Taste the World Recipes

I absolutely love making Spicy Tuna Sushi Rolls at home! The combination of fresh tuna, spicy mayo, and perfectly seasoned rice comes together to create a flavor explosion that takes me straight to my favorite sushi bar. Each bite feels like a delightful blend of textures and tastes, and I can customize the heat level to suit my mood. It's really rewarding to create something so delicious from scratch, and it’s surprisingly simple to make with the right ingredients and a little practice.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-13T11:49:30.583Z

When I first attempted to make sushi at home, I was a bit intimidated by the process, but once I tackled the basics, I was hooked! The key is to use high-quality sushi-grade tuna and balance the flavors just right. I discovered that mixing mayonnaise with Sriracha gives the perfect kick to the tuna, adding flavor without overwhelming the delicate taste of the fish.

I also learned the importance of wetting my hands while handling the rice to prevent sticking, which made rolling the sushi much easier. With each roll, I felt more confident, and now these Spicy Tuna Sushi Rolls are a staple in my kitchen, enjoyed by family and friends alike!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich umami flavor from the fresh tuna
Spicy kick that you can adjust to your liking
Perfect for a cozy night or impressing guests

      

Mastering Sushi Rice

To achieve perfect sushi rice, make sure you rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear, which removes excess starch. This is crucial for achieving that ideal sticky texture. Keep an eye on the cooking process; once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer gently to prevent burning the bottom. Maintaining a covered pot after cooking ensures that the steam does not escape, allowing the rice to finish cooking in its own heat.

When mixing the seasoned rice with vinegar, sugar, and salt, be gentle. Use a wooden spatula or paddle to fold it into the rice rather than stirring vigorously, which can break the grains. The rice should become slightly glossy and cool down to room temperature; this texture is vital for sushi rolls to hold their shape without falling apart.

Crafting the Spicy Tuna Filling

The balance of flavors in the spicy tuna filling is essential. Using high-quality sushi-grade tuna not only provides a rich umami flavor but also ensures safety when consumed raw. If you can’t find sushi-grade tuna, opt for sashimi-grade fish instead, and always verify the source for freshness. Adjusting the amount of Sriracha allows you to customize the heat level; start with a small amount and gradually increase until you reach your preference.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or a drizzle of sesame oil to the tuna mixture. Not only does this enhance the umami, but it also adds a nice depth to the overall filling. Mixing in finely chopped green onions or sesame seeds can provide a delightful texture contrast in every bite.

Assembling and Serving Tips

When assembling the sushi, ensure that your fingers are wet to prevent the rice from sticking to your hands. Thoroughly spreading the rice over the nori and leaving a border at the top is key for a clean roll; it helps seal the sushi better. If you're using fillings like avocado, make sure they are ripe but firm, as overly soft avocado can make rolling difficult and could lead to a messy sushi roll.

When serving the finished sushi, presentation is important. Slice the rolls with a sharp knife that's been moistened to ensure clean cuts. This helps maintain the integrity of the rolls and prevents them from squishing. Serve the sushi rolls on a platter with soy sauce for dipping, and scatter pickled ginger and wasabi to awaken the palate between bites.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients and get ready to roll!

For the Sushi Rolls

1 cup sushi rice
1 1/4 cups water
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
8 ounces sushi-grade tuna, diced
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 tablespoon Sriracha sauce
4 sheets nori (seaweed)
1 avocado, sliced
Soy sauce for serving
Pickled ginger and wasabi for garnish

Make sure to have everything ready for rolling.

Instructions

Let's get started on making these delightful sushi rolls!

Prepare the Sushi Rice

After cooking, remove from heat and let it sit covered for another 10 minutes. In a small bowl, mix the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt, then gently fold it into the cooked rice.

Make the Spicy Tuna Filling

In a bowl, combine the diced tuna with mayonnaise and Sriracha sauce. Adjust the amount of Sriracha based on your desired spice level.

Assemble the Sushi Rolls

Place a bamboo sushi mat on a flat surface and lay a sheet of nori shiny side down. Wet your hands and take a handful of sushi rice, pressing it evenly over the nori, leaving a small border at the top. Spread a line of the spicy tuna filling and a few avocado slices across the center.

Using the mat, roll the sushi tightly away from you, applying gentle pressure as you go.

Slice and Serve

Once rolled, use a sharp knife to slice the sushi into 6 to 8 pieces. Wipe the knife with a wet cloth between cuts to ensure clean slices. Serve with soy sauce, pickled ginger, and wasabi.

Enjoy your Spicy Tuna Sushi Rolls!

Pro Tips

Don't be afraid to experiment with different fillings like cucumber or cream cheese. Also, try hot water instead of cold to rinse your hands
this can help remove the stickiness of rice more effectively.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for a lighter alternative to mayonnaise, try Greek yogurt mixed with a bit of sesame oil. This creates a creamy but tangy substitute that pairs well with the tuna. Additionally, if you want to adjust the spice without altering the texture, try adding some finely minced jalapeño or a few drops of hot sesame oil for a unique twist.

For a vegetarian or vegan version, instead of tuna, use marinated tofu or a combination of crunchy vegetables like cucumber and carrot, seasoned with the same spicy mayo. This can create a similar satisfying texture and flavor profile while accommodating dietary preferences.

Make-Ahead and Storage

You can prepare the sushi rice a day in advance. Once cooled, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. Do not refrigerate, as cold rice won't hold together well when rolling. If you have leftover sushi rolls, they are best enjoyed fresh, but if necessary, they can be kept in the fridge for a few hours wrapped in plastic wrap. However, the texture may suffer, and the nori may become soggy.

If you're looking to meal prep, consider making the spicy tuna filling ahead of time. It can stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours in an airtight container. When you're ready to enjoy, simply roll it up with fresh rice and nori for a quick sushi fix.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your sushi rice is too mushy, it could be due to overcooking or using too much water. Next time, adjust the water to rice ratio slightly, or let it cool longer before seasoning. For those struggling with the rolling technique, practice makes perfect. If the sushi keeps falling apart, ensure your rice is sticky enough and that you've tightly rolled it without excessive pressure, which can crush the filling.

Another common issue is uneven seasoning in the rice. Taste it before wrapping, and if it's not flavorful enough, sprinkle a little extra vinegar-sugar-salt mixture and gently fold it in. Don't worry if it takes a few tries to get it right; each attempt is a step towards sushi mastery!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of fish?

Yes, you can use salmon or other sushi-grade fish according to your taste.

→ How can I make the rolls less spicy?

Simply reduce the amount of Sriracha in the mayo mixture, or omit it entirely.

→ What is the best way to store leftovers?

Store sushi rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within a day for the best taste.

→ Can I make sushi rice ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sushi rice a few hours in advance. Keep it covered to prevent it from drying out.