
Take ordinary canned tuna to the next level with this tasty and quick Tuna Sushi Bowl. I stumbled upon this idea during a hectic workweek, and it's now my favorite fix for nights when I'm in the mood for sushi flavors but need something fast and wallet-friendly. The mix of crunchy fried rice, smooth avocado, and zesty tuna makes a bowl that's both cozy and thrilling.
Just yesterday, I made this for my doubtful teenager who normally eats tuna only in traditional sushi rolls. She took one bite and immediately asked if we could put it on our regular menu!
Key Ingredients Breakdown
- Sushi rice: Makes a perfect sticky foundation - don't swap out short-grain rice
- Canned tuna: Go for premium solid white tuna for the best flavor
- Bang bang sauce: The magic ingredient that elevates plain tuna
- Furikake: This tasty Japanese mix adds real flavor and crunch
- Avocado: Pick ones that yield slightly but aren't mushy
- Spring onions: Gives a fresh snap and bright color
Easy Preparation Guide
- Step 4:
- Put it all together: Start with crispy rice at the bottom. Spread spicy tuna evenly on top. Fan out avocado pieces nicely. Sprinkle green onions for a pop of color. Top it off with plenty of furikake.
- Step 3:
- Mix up your spicy tuna: Get all water out of the tuna to keep it dry. Break it into consistent small bits. Add bang bang sauce bit by bit until well coated. Try a little and add more flavor if needed.
- Step 2:
- Get that rice crispy: Heat up oil until it's shimmery but not smoking. Put rice down in a flat layer. Press down gently with your spatula for good contact. You want to hear that sizzling sound. Wait for golden edges before you flip it.
- Step 1:
- Nail the rice foundation: Wash rice until the water looks clear. Cook it using the water absorption way. Add seasoning while it's still hot so it soaks in better. Let it cool a bit before crisping it up.

Flavorful Harmony
Knowing how all parts work together makes all the difference. The crunchy rice gives you that nice texture, spicy tuna adds protein and kick, while avocado brings that smooth richness. Try to get a bit of everything in each mouthful.
Getting Heat Right
Here's the trick to an amazing bowl: Your rice should feel warm but not hot when you crisp it up. The tuna mix can sit at room temp. Cut your avocado just before using when it's cool. Eat right away to enjoy that rice crunch.
This dish came about during a what's-in-my-cupboard dinner test, and now it's my go-to way to jazz up canned tuna. My buddy who runs a sushi place actually wanted to know how I make it!

Want me to share some different versions and storage advice?
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What’s in bang bang sauce?
- This creamy mix blends mayo, sriracha, and sweet chili sauce for a spicy-sweet kick.
- → Can I use regular rice?
- Sure! Short-grain rice works fine, though sushi rice gives the stickiest texture.
- → What does furikake taste like?
- Furikake is a savory Japanese topping with seaweed, sesame seeds, and dried fish flakes.
- → Can this be prepped beforehand?
- Yes, prep the parts ahead of time. Put it all together right before eating for the best texture.
- → Can I switch out the toppings?
- Absolutely! Try cucumber, carrots, or pickled veggies for variety.