5 from 2 votes

Servings onigirazu

This onigirazu is easy, delicious, and perfect for a quick lunch or snack. The creamy tuna and mayo make the perfect filling for this Japanese rice sandwich! Give it a try!

More onigirazu recipes you will love- Vegerarian Tamagoyaki Onigirazu, Vegan Mapo Tofu Onigirazu, 3 Easy Onigirazu Recipes!

Onigirazu

Onigirazu means “not shaped like a rice ball” in Japanese. Unlike traditional onigiri, it’s a rice sandwich—just layer the filling, fold it into a square, and wrap it in nori. Easy, portable, and perfect for a satisfying meal on the go!

Recipe Ingredients

You’ll need the following ingredients to make this tuna mayo onigirazu:

Rice: Japanese rice such as Koshihikari or sushi rice, is ideal because it’s sticky and holds its shape well. While white rice is most common, you can also use brown rice for added nutrition.
Nori: A dried, crispy seaweed sold in sheets. Use full-size nori sheets (about 8.3″ x 7.5″ or 21 x 19 cm) from a Japanese or Asian grocery store.
Tuna & Mayonnaise: A classic and creamy combination! Mix canned tuna with Japanese mayo for the best flavor. Adjust the mayo amount based on your preference.
Carrot & Lettuce: Adds crunch and freshness! Feel free to swap with other fresh veggies like cucumber, spinach, or avocado.

How To Make Tuna Mayo Onigirazu: STEP BY STEP

Here are some quick visual instructions! The video, detailed ingredients, and instructions are on the printable recipe card below.

Step 1

Place a sheet of plastic wrap on a flat surface and lay a nori sheet on top.

Step 2

Spread some rice in the center.

Step 3

Add the tuna mayo filling on top of the rice.

Step 4

Cover with another layer of rice.

Step 5

Fold the corners of the nori over the filling to form a square shape.

Step 6

Wrap the onigirazu tightly with plastic wrap.

Cut it in half and enjoy this colorful onigirazu sandwich. Perfect for lunch on the go!

Recipe Tips

Don’t put too much rice—too much makes it hard to wrap the nori properly. Spread it evenly and thinly for easier wrapping.
Wrap the nori tightly so the filling stays in place and doesn’t fall apart when eating.
When slicing, wet your knife for a clean cut!

Storage

onigirazu stored in an airtight container.

To store onigirazu, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to keep the filling in place and prevent the rice from drying out. Then, please place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for a few days.

What To Serve With

Since onigirazu already includes a flavorful filling, a simple way to serve it is with miso soup and sides to make a well-balanced meal. I recommend serving it with Daikon miso soup and Tofu seaweed salad!

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Tuna Mayo Onigirazu

5 from 2 votes

Prep: 10

Cook: 10

Total: 20

Servings: onigirazu

Author: Juri Austin

This onigirazu is easy, delicious, and perfect for a quick lunch or snack. The creamy tuna and mayo make the perfect filling for this Japanese rice sandwich! Give it a try!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients

Instructions

Prepare the Fillings: Drain the canned tuna and mix it with mayonnaise and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Shred the carrot, microwave it for 30 seconds to soften, and add a little salt. Wash the lettuce and tear it into bite-sized pieces.
Assemble the Onigirazu: Lay a sheet of plastic wrap on a flat surface. Place a nori sheet on top, shiny side down. Spread some rice in the center, shaping it into a small square. Add the tuna mayo, lettuce, and carrots on top. Cover it with another layer of rice.
Fold the Nori: Fold the corners of the nori toward the center, wrapping the fillings into a square. Use the plastic wrap to tightly wrap the onigirazu and gently press it so it holds its shape.
Slice and Serve: Let it sit for a few minutes so the nori softens and sticks. Then, cut it in half (wet it slightly to prevent sticking) and enjoy!

Video

Notes

Storage: Wrap each in plastic wrap, put it in an airtight container, and refrigerate it for a few days.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 249kcal

This nutritional information is estimated and provided for general reference only.

Course: Rice

Cuisine: Japanese

Keyword: onigirazu

Did You Make This Recipe?

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Juri Austin

Hi! I’m Juri, founder of Chef JA Cooks and the creator and photographer of this site. I’m here to guide you in authentic yet easy-to-follow Japanese recipes! Let’s explore the world of Japanese cuisine together!

Learn More About Juri

3 Comments

Kanksha says:

May 26, 2025 at 12:06 PM

So easy and looks delicious!

1. Juri Austin says:
  
  May 26, 2025 at 1:51 PM
  
  Thank you for your comment! Yes! It’s so easy!
  
Juri Austin says:

Mar 21, 2025 at 9:55 AM

Thank you for visiting the comment section. Here, you can leave me feedback with a star rating. Readers like yourself may find comments helpful when making one of my recipes. I hope you love this one as much as I do!