Crispy Tuna Mayo Cucumber Rolls
How to Make Tuna Mayo Cucumber Rolls: The Perfect Bite-Sized Finger Food
Discover a delightful way to use up leftover cucumbers! This recipe transforms them into refreshing and delicious Cucumber Sushi Rolls, perfect as finger food. We’ve created two fantastic tuna mayo fillings: an original classic and a zesty kimchi version. The combination of crisp cucumber and creamy tuna mayo is simply divine. The kimchi adds a pleasant tang and a hint of spice, making both options incredibly tasty! These rolls are a delightful balance of textures and flavors.
Main Ingredients
- 1-2 cucumbers
- 1 can tuna (approx. 150g)
- 40g finely chopped kimchi
- A little butter
- 1/2 tbsp sesame oil
- A pinch of toasted sesame seeds
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- A pinch of black pepper
- Wasabi, to taste
Sushi Rice Seasoning
- 2 bowls of warm cooked rice
- 3 pinches of salt
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 3 tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 bowls of warm cooked rice
- 3 pinches of salt
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 3 tbsp rice vinegar
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, drain the tuna thoroughly by placing it in a sieve. This step is crucial to remove excess oil, resulting in a cleaner and less greasy tuna filling.
Step 2
Let’s prepare the kimchi for the kimchi tuna mayo. 1) Finely chop about 40g of kimchi. 2) Heat a small amount of butter in a non-stick pan over medium-low heat. Add the chopped kimchi and sauté until fragrant and the moisture has evaporated. 3) Once the kimchi is sautéed, turn off the heat. Stir in 1/2 tbsp of sesame oil and a pinch of toasted sesame seeds. 4) Transfer the sautéed kimchi to a separate dish to cool completely. This step ensures a delicious kimchi flavor without excess moisture.
Step 3
Wash the cucumbers well and pat them dry. Using a vegetable peeler or mandoline slicer, thinly slice the cucumber lengthwise, avoiding the seedy core as much as possible. For an extra crisp texture, you can overlap 2-3 slices when rolling. The number of cucumbers can be adjusted based on your preference.
Step 4
After slicing, place the cucumber strips on paper towels to absorb any excess moisture. This prevents the rolls from becoming soggy and helps them hold their shape better.
Step 5
Now, let’s make the tuna mayo fillings. Divide the drained tuna into two separate bowls. In one bowl, add the cooled sautéed kimchi. In the other bowl, prepare the original tuna mayo. To both bowls, add a pinch of black pepper and 1 tbsp of mayonnaise. Gently mix each filling until well combined, being careful not to mash the ingredients. The kimchi version offers a delightful tangy and slightly spicy kick.
Step 6
Time to season the sushi rice! In a small bowl, combine 3 tbsp rice vinegar, 3 pinches of salt, and 1 tbsp sugar. Stir until the sugar and salt are completely dissolved. Pour this seasoned vinegar mixture over 2 bowls of warm cooked rice. Gently fold the vinegar into the rice using a rice paddle or spatula, ensuring each grain is coated without making it mushy. The goal is to achieve a glossy, perfectly seasoned sushi rice.
Step 7
Assemble the cucumber rolls. Take a small portion of the seasoned sushi rice and form it into a compact oval shape. Place the rice on a thin cucumber slice (or overlapping slices). Carefully wrap the cucumber around the rice, pressing gently to secure the roll. Aim to make about 18 rolls. Slightly flatten the rice end where the cucumber meets to create a small surface for toppings.
Step 8
Apply a small dab of wasabi onto the top of each assembled cucumber roll, adjusting the amount to your preference. The wasabi adds a subtle kick that complements the creamy tuna mayo.
Step 9
Top each wasabi-kissed roll with a generous spoonful of your prepared tuna mayo filling (either the original or the kimchi version). Be mindful not to overload, as this can cause the roll to unravel.
Step 10
Finally, arrange the finished cucumber tuna mayo rolls beautifully on a serving plate. Sprinkle a few toasted sesame seeds over the top for a delightful finish. Enjoy these charming, bite-sized rolls as a delightful appetizer, a healthy snack, or a special party treat!
