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Tuna Rice Balls

Recipe by Matteo on InstagramAdded 22 September 2026.
  • 10 min
  • Serves 6
  • 6 ingredients

10 minutes to prep. Savory tuna rice balls made with cooked rice, canned tuna, and a hint of low‑fat mayo. Coated in toasted sesame seeds, they are a protein‑rich snack that can be enjoyed immediately or stored for a quick lunch.

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Ingredients

6 servingsMetric

Amounts as Matteo gives them. Metric converts supported weights and liquids, and oven temperatures; spoon measures and counts stay as written.

Method

  1. 1

    Gather all ingredients and have a large mixing bowl ready.

  2. 2

    If the canned tuna is packed in water, drain it well and flake it with a fork.

  3. 3

    Place the cooked rice into the bowl, then add the flaked tuna, low‑fat mayo, and a pinch of salt or a few drops of soy sauce, depending on your taste preference.

    Kitchen notes · Added by ReelsMeals: Tuna and mayo distribute through the rice. Fold gently to keep the grains intact.

  4. 4

    Using a fork, gently stir the mixture until the rice, tuna, and mayo are evenly combined, being careful not to mash the rice.

  5. 5

    Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the mixture rest for 2–3 minutes so the flavors can meld.

  6. 6

    Wet your hands lightly with water to prevent sticking, then portion the mixture into six equal parts (about 70 g each).

  7. 7

    Shape each portion into a compact ball, pressing firmly but gently to hold its shape.

    Kitchen notes · Added by ReelsMeals: Rice mixture holds its ball shape. Press firmly but gently as you shape it.

  8. 8

    Place the sesame seeds in a shallow dish; lightly toast them in a dry skillet for 1–2 minutes if they are raw, then let them cool.

    Kitchen notes · Added by ReelsMeals: Sesame seeds toast lightly. Stir them in the dry skillet until fragrant.

  9. 9

    Roll each rice ball in the sesame seeds, ensuring an even coating on all sides.

    Kitchen notes · Added by ReelsMeals: Rice balls have an even sesame coating. Roll them while the surface is slightly tacky.

  10. 10

    Arrange the coated rice balls on a serving plate. If serving immediately, enjoy them while fresh.

  11. 11

    If you plan to store them, place the balls in an airtight container and refrigerate; they will keep well for up to two days.

  12. 12

    Before serving leftovers, let the rice balls sit at room temperature for a few minutes or microwave briefly (10‑15 seconds) to soften the rice if desired.

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The recipe comes from Matteo’s Instagram reel. ReelsMeals wrote it down from the caption and the voiceover. Check the original if something looks off, and for anything about allergens.

Are you Matteo and want this changed? Email [email protected].

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