Packed with protein, creamy heat, and crisp vegetables, this spicy mayo tuna rice bowl is a fast, flavorful dish that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Featuring seasoned tuna over sushi rice with fresh toppings, it’s a satisfying, Japanese-inspired bowl ready in just 15 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This bowl combines all the best textures and flavors—creamy, spicy tuna, fluffy sushi rice, and crunchy fresh vegetables—for a meal that feels indulgent yet wholesome. It’s ideal for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or when you’re craving sushi flavors without the fuss. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable to suit your taste and dietary needs.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 cups cooked sushi rice
For the spicy tuna:
- 1 can tuna, drained
- 2 tablespoons Kewpie mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust for heat preference)
- ½ teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon toasted sesame oil
Toppings:
- Sliced avocado
- Diced cucumber
- Sliced green onions
- Roasted sesame seeds
Directions
- Drain the canned tuna thoroughly and press out any remaining moisture using your hands or a paper towel.
- In a small bowl, combine the tuna with Kewpie mayonnaise, sriracha, lemon juice, and sesame oil. Mix until smooth and evenly coated.
- Divide the cooked sushi rice into a bowl. Spoon the spicy tuna mixture over the top.
- Add sliced avocado, diced cucumber, and green onions.
- Finish with a drizzle of extra sriracha or mayo if desired, and sprinkle with roasted sesame seeds.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Servings and timing
Servings: 1 serving
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Calories: 520 kcal per serving
Variations
- Brown Rice or Quinoa: Swap sushi rice for brown rice or quinoa for a fiber-rich option.
- Add Crunch: Top with crispy fried onions, nori strips, or tempura bits for extra texture.
- Vegan Option: Use mashed chickpeas or tofu in place of tuna and vegan mayo.
- Spice Level Control: Adjust the amount of sriracha or replace with chili oil or gochujang.
- Pickled Veggies: Add pickled ginger, daikon, or radish for a tangy contrast.
Storage/Reheating
This rice bowl is best served immediately for optimal texture and freshness. If storing, keep components separate in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Reheat the rice separately and assemble just before serving. Avoid microwaving the spicy mayo tuna to preserve its creamy texture.
FAQs
What type of tuna should I use?
Use high-quality canned tuna in water or oil, depending on your preference. Drain thoroughly before mixing.
Can I use regular mayonnaise instead of Kewpie?
Yes, but Kewpie mayonnaise adds a richer, umami flavor. You can mimic it by mixing regular mayo with a touch of rice vinegar and sugar.
Is this dish spicy?
It has a moderate level of heat from sriracha. Reduce or omit the sriracha for a milder version.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
You can prep components like rice, tuna mix, and chopped vegetables ahead. Store separately and assemble before eating.
What’s the best rice for this bowl?
Sushi rice is ideal for its sticky texture, but jasmine or short-grain white rice also works well.
Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?
Yes, you can use raw sushi-grade tuna diced finely, but it should be kept cold and consumed immediately.
Is this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free sriracha and soy sauce (if adding) to ensure the dish is gluten-free.
How do I keep the avocado from browning?
Add avocado just before serving or toss slices in lemon juice to slow oxidation.
Can I make this bowl low-carb?
Yes, replace the rice with cauliflower rice or shredded cabbage for a low-carb alternative.
Are there other sauces I can use?
Yes, drizzle with ponzu, soy sauce, or a sesame-ginger dressing for a different flavor profile.
Conclusion
This spicy mayo tuna rice bowl is a fast, satisfying dish that blends bold flavors and nourishing ingredients into one delicious bowl. Whether you’re craving sushi-inspired flavors or need a quick high-protein meal, this recipe delivers on all fronts. Make it your own with your favorite toppings and enjoy a restaurant-style experience at home in just 15 minutes.
PrintSpicy Mayo Tuna Rice Bowl
Packed with protein, creamy heat, and crisp veggies, this spicy mayo tuna rice bowl is a quick and customizable meal ideal for busy weeknights—ready in just 15 minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Assembly
- Cuisine: Japanese Fusion
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked sushi rice
- 1 can tuna, drained
- 2 tablespoons Kewpie mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (or more mayo for a milder version)
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- Sliced avocado
- Diced cucumber
- Sliced green onions
- Roasted sesame seeds
Instructions
- Drain canned tuna well and squeeze out excess moisture using your hands or a paper towel.
- In a small bowl, combine tuna, Kewpie mayonnaise, sriracha, lemon juice, and sesame oil. Mix until fully blended.
- In a large bowl, add cooked sushi rice and top with spicy tuna mixture.
- Add sliced avocado, diced cucumbers, and green onions over the top.
- Drizzle with extra mayo or sriracha if desired, then sprinkle with roasted sesame seeds.
- Serve immediately and enjoy fresh.
Notes
- Use short-grain or sushi rice for best texture and authenticity.
- Substitute canned salmon or cooked shrimp for variation.
- Chill the tuna mix slightly for a refreshing contrast to the warm rice.
- Add pickled ginger or nori strips for extra flavor and texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 650 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 22 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 26 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg