Name: Spicy Seattle Tuna Rolls
Prep time: 25 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 6 oz sashimi-grade tuna; 1 green onion, thinly sliced; 2 tsp soy sauce; 1 tsp Ra-yu (Japanese chili oil); 2 sheets nori (roasted seaweed); 2 cups sushi rice, cooked and seasoned

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Spicy Seattle Tuna Rolls are a bold and flavorful sushi roll featuring fresh tuna, green onion, and a kick of chili oil wrapped in nori and sushi rice. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create restaurant-quality sushi at home. These rolls are perfect for sushi lovers who enjoy a spicy twist on classic tuna rolls.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fresh, vibrant flavors with just the right amount of spice
A simple way to enjoy sushi at home with minimal ingredients
Customizable with extra toppings or sauces
Perfect for a light meal, appetizer, or party platter
A great recipe to practice sushi-rolling techniques
Tastes like your favorite sushi restaurant, but more affordable

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

6 oz sashimi-grade tuna
1 green onion, thinly sliced
2 teaspoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon Ra-yu (Japanese chili oil)
2 sheets nori (roasted seaweed)
2 cups sushi rice, cooked and seasoned

Directions

Cut tuna into small pieces. Thinly slice the green onion.
Chop tuna and onion together, then transfer to a bowl. Add Ra-yu chili oil and soy sauce, mixing well.
Place a sushi mat on a flat surface with the slats running horizontally. Lay a sheet of nori on top, shiny side down, with the edge close to you.
Spread 1 cup sushi rice evenly over the nori, leaving a 1-inch (2.5 cm) border at the top edge.
Spoon the tuna mixture in a line across the center of the rice.
While holding the filling in place, roll the mat from the bottom edge upward, tucking and tightening as you go, like rolling a cake. Remove the mat once rolled.
Slice the roll into ½-inch thick pieces using a sharp knife. Wipe the knife with a damp cloth between cuts for clean slices.
Serve with soy sauce, wasabi, or pickled ginger, if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 2 rolls (about 12 pieces)
Prep time: 25 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Extra Spicy: Add more Ra-yu or mix in Sriracha.
Creamy Kick: Mix in a little mayonnaise with the tuna for a spicy tuna mayo filling.
Avocado Twist: Add avocado slices inside the roll for creaminess.
Crunchy Version: Sprinkle tempura flakes inside or on top for added texture.
Topped Roll: Place thin slices of avocado or tuna over the roll and drizzle with spicy mayo.

Storage/Reheating

Best eaten fresh for safety and flavor.
If needed, store rolls tightly wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Not suitable for reheating, as sushi rice and tuna are best enjoyed cold.

FAQs

Do I need sashimi-grade tuna for this recipe?

Yes, since tuna is eaten raw, only use sashimi-grade tuna for safety and quality.

Can I make sushi rice ahead of time?

Yes, but keep it at room temperature covered with a damp towel. Do not refrigerate before rolling.

What can I use instead of Ra-yu?

You can use chili oil, Sriracha, or even gochujang for a similar spicy kick.

Do I need a bamboo sushi mat?

It helps, but you can also roll sushi using parchment paper or a clean kitchen towel.

Can I add vegetables to this roll?

Yes, cucumber, avocado, or bell pepper strips work well.

How do I slice sushi without squishing it?

Use a very sharp knife and wipe it with a damp cloth between cuts.

Can I make this roll gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.

What if I can’t find sashimi-grade tuna?

Use cooked tuna or substitute with salmon (sashimi-grade) instead.

Can I store leftovers?

Eat within 24 hours for best freshness and food safety.

Can I make this without raw fish?

Yes, substitute the tuna with cooked shrimp, crab, or even a spicy tofu filling.

Conclusion

Spicy Seattle Tuna Rolls are a simple yet flavorful sushi recipe that brings fresh seafood and bold spice together. Perfect for sushi lovers who want to make their favorite rolls at home, this recipe offers a balance of heat, freshness, and savory umami in every bite.