Make satisfying Korean seaweed rice rolls filled with a quick, flavorful spicy tuna mayo mixture. This recipe is simple, great for lunch boxes, and ready fast.
Author:purejoyalex
Prep Time:20 min
Cook Time:5 min
Total Time:25 min
Yield:4 rolls (about 24 pieces) 1x
Category:Main Course
Method:Rolling
Cuisine:Korean
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
4 sheets roasted seaweed (nori or gim)
2 cups cooked short-grain rice, warm
2 teaspoons sesame oil, divided
1 teaspoon salt, divided
1 (5.3 oz) can tuna packed in oil, drained well
2 tablespoons Japanese mayonnaise (Kewpie preferred)
1 tablespoon Sriracha sauce (adjust to your heat preference)
2 tablespoons green onion, very finely chopped
4 perilla leaves, washed and dried (optional)
1 teaspoon sesame seeds, for garnish
1/2 cup pickled yellow radish (danmuji), cut into strips
1/2 cup carrot, julienned and lightly sautéed
1/2 cup cucumber, julienned and lightly sautéed
Instructions
Prepare the rice seasoning: In a large bowl, combine the warm cooked rice with 1 teaspoon of sesame oil and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Mix gently until combined. Set aside.
Make the spicy tuna filling: In a separate bowl, combine the drained tuna, mayonnaise, Sriracha sauce, and finely chopped green onion. Mix until you have a cohesive, creamy filling.
Prepare the vegetables: If using, quickly sauté the carrot and cucumber strips separately with a pinch of salt until slightly tender-crisp. Drain any excess liquid.
Assemble the roll: Lay one sheet of seaweed, shiny side down, on a bamboo rolling mat. If using perilla leaves, place one leaf on the seaweed first.
Spread the rice: Evenly spread about 1/2 cup of the seasoned rice over the seaweed, leaving about a 1-inch border clear at the top edge.
Layer the fillings: Arrange a line of the spicy tuna mixture across the center of the rice. Place strips of pickled radish, sautéed carrot, and cucumber alongside the tuna.
Roll the kimbap: Lift the edge of the mat closest to you and begin rolling tightly, pressing the fillings in as you go. Moisten the clear edge of the seaweed with a little water to seal the roll closed.
Finish and slice: Brush the outside of the finished roll lightly with the remaining 1 teaspoon of sesame oil and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Use a sharp, damp knife to slice the roll into bite-sized pieces (about 1 inch thick).
Serve immediately or pack for your lunchbox.
Notes
For the best flavor, use Japanese mayonnaise (Kewpie) as it adds a distinct tanginess to the tuna filling.
If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the Sriracha or substitute it with a small amount of gochujang (Korean chili paste).
You can prepare the vegetables and tuna filling ahead of time to make assembly quick, perfect for busy mornings.
To prevent the rice from sticking to your hands when spreading, lightly wet your hands with water.