Quick and Easy Tuna Kimbap Rice Balls: A Simple Korean Snack

Korean Rice Balls, also known as “Jumeok Bap.” These delicious rice balls are often made with a flavorful filling and are a popular snack or side dish in Korean cuisine. In this recipe, we’ll make Tuna Kimbap Rice Balls, a variation of Jumeok Bap with a tuna and vegetable filling.

Ingredients:

For the Rice Balls:

• 2 cups cooked sushi rice – rice should be warm for easier handling
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Tuna Filling:

• 1 can (5 oz) tuna, drained
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
• A pinch of black pepper

For Assembly:

• Roasted seaweed sheets
• Toasted sesame seeds (optional)
• Salt, for seasoning (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix the warm sushi rice with rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. This will season the rice and give it a slightly tangy flavor. Let the rice cool slightly so it’s easier to handle.
2. In a separate bowl, prepare the tuna filling. Combine the drained tuna with mayonnaise, soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, and black pepper. Mix well to create a flavorful tuna salad.
3. Wet your hands with a bit of water to prevent the rice from sticking, and take a small handful of the seasoned rice.
4. Flatten the rice in your palm to form a small disc.
5. Place a spoonful of the tuna filling in the center of the rice disc.
6. Carefully encase the filling by folding the rice around it, forming a ball shape. Press gently to make sure it holds together.
7. Put seaweed, sesame and salt in blender and blend together.
8. Let the rice balls be coated with seaweed sesame seeds. The seaweed and sesame will add a delicious crunch and flavor to the rice ball.
9. Repeat the process with the remaining rice and filling to make more rice balls.
10. Serve your Tuna Kimbap Rice Balls as a snack, side dish, or part of a Korean-style bento box.

Now you can make these quick and easy Tuna Kimbap Rice Balls for a delicious and flavorful Korean snack that’s so convenient. With just a minimal amount of effort, each bite is full of rich flavor, perfect for satisfying your cravings anytime, anywhere.