Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Sushi Rice

01 - 200 g sushi rice or other short-grain rice
02 - 30 ml rice vinegar
03 - 6 g granulated sugar
04 - 2 g Kosher salt
05 - 120 ml grapeseed oil or other neutral oil, for pan frying

→ Spicy Tuna Mixture

06 - 225 g sushi-grade ahi tuna
07 - 3 scallions, thinly sliced

→ Spicy Mayo

08 - 120 g Kewpie mayonnaise
09 - 60 ml Sriracha
10 - 45 ml ponzu sauce

→ Garnishes

11 - 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced
12 - Black sesame seeds, to taste

# Instructions:

01 - Rinse the sushi rice thoroughly in a fine mesh strainer under cool water until the water runs clear. Cook the rice according to package or rice cooker instructions.
02 - Combine rice vinegar, sugar, and Kosher salt in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat and whisk until fully dissolved. Set aside.
03 - While the rice is still warm, gently fold the sushi vinegar into the rice using a rice paddle or spatula, being cautious not to mash the grains.
04 - Line a small rectangular tray or Tupperware with plastic wrap. Evenly press the seasoned rice into a flat, compact layer about 1.5 cm thick. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for several hours or overnight.
05 - Dice the sushi-grade tuna into small cubes, then further chop until the texture is finely minced. Place into a large mixing bowl with sliced scallions.
06 - In a bowl, whisk together Kewpie mayonnaise, Sriracha, and ponzu sauce until smooth. Pour over the chopped tuna mixture and mix thoroughly to combine. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.
07 - With slightly damp hands, cut the chilled rice into rectangles approximately 5 cm x 2 cm. Heat neutral oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then fry the rice pieces in batches for about 2 minutes per side, or until golden and crisp. Transfer to a rack lined with paper towels to drain.
08 - Place a generous tablespoon of spicy tuna mixture atop each crispy rice piece. Garnish with black sesame seeds and a thin slice of jalapeño. Drizzle with extra spicy mayo if desired, then serve immediately.

# Notes:

01 - Using day-old and thoroughly cooled rice ensures the pieces hold shape and remain crisp during frying.
02 - Ensure the tuna is sashimi-grade for safe raw consumption.