Easy Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice Waffle Sushi
Easy Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice Waffle Sushi!! is a easy American Fusion recipe that serves 2. 225 calories per serving. Recipe by Kelly Kruger Brooks on YouTube.
Prep: 4 min | Cook: 5 min | Total: 14 min
Cost: $6.08 total, $3.04 per serving
Ingredients
- 1 can (5 oz) Canned Tuna in Water (drained, preferably solid white tuna)
- 1 tablespoon White Miso Paste (Japanese white miso for mild flavor)
- 2 tablespoons Mayonnaise (regular or gluten‑free mayo)
- 1 teaspoon Sriracha Sauce (adjust heat to taste)
- 1 tablespoon Green Onion (finely chopped, optional garnish)
- 0.5 teaspoon Sesame Oil (adds nutty aroma, optional)
- 1 teaspoon Gluten‑Free Cooking Spray (to prevent sticking in waffle iron)
Instructions
Prepare Tuna
Open the canned tuna, drain well, and place the meat into a mixing bowl.
Time: PT2M
Mix Flavorings
Add white miso paste, mayonnaise, Sriracha, sesame oil, and chopped green onion to the tuna. Stir until a cohesive, slightly sticky mixture forms.
Time: PT2M
Preheat Waffle Iron
Plug in the waffle maker and let it heat for about 2 minutes. Lightly spray the plates with gluten‑free cooking spray.
Time: PT2M
Temperature: Medium‑high heat (approx. 375°F)
Cook the Tuna Waffle
Spoon the tuna mixture onto the center of the waffle plates (about ¼ cup per waffle). Close the lid and cook for 2‑3 minutes, or until the edges turn golden and the interior is heated through.
Time: PT3M
Temperature: Medium‑high heat (approx. 375°F)
Serve
Carefully remove the waffle with a silicone spatula, let it rest for a minute, then serve warm. Optional: drizzle a little extra Sriracha or sprinkle toasted sesame seeds.
Time: PT1M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 225
- Protein
- 20g
- Carbohydrates
- 2g
- Fat
- 15g
- Fiber
- 0g
Dietary info: Gluten-Free, Keto-Friendly, Low-Carb, Dairy-Free (if using dairy‑free mayo)
Allergens: Fish, Egg, Soy
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Canned Tuna in Water: canned salmon, cooked shredded chicken
- Instead of White Miso Paste: red miso (stronger), soy sauce (less authentic)
- Instead of Mayonnaise: Greek yogurt, vegan mayo
- Instead of Sriracha Sauce: hot sauce, chili garlic sauce
- Instead of Green Onion: chives, scallions
- Instead of Sesame Oil: olive oil, avocado oil
- Instead of Gluten‑Free Cooking Spray: vegetable oil brushed with a pastry brush
Equipment Needed
- Waffle Maker (heart‑shaped)
- Mixing Bowl
- Spatula or Spoon
- Can Opener
- Cooking Spray Bottle (optional)
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Mix tuna with miso mayo and Sriracha until uniform
- Preheat waffle maker fully before adding mixture
- Cook until golden‑brown to achieve crisp texture
Chef Tips from the Video
- For extra crunch, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top before serving.
- Use a heart‑shaped waffle iron for a fun toddler‑friendly presentation.
- Adjust Sriracha amount to suit your family’s spice tolerance.
Troubleshooting
Mixture is too wet and spreads beyond the waffle plates.
Add 1‑2 teaspoons of gluten‑free breadcrumbs or almond flour to bind the mixture.
Waffle sticks to the iron.
Generously spray or brush the plates with oil before each batch; ensure the iron is fully preheated.
Tuna waffle is not crisp on the outside.
Cook a minute longer or increase heat slightly; a fully preheated iron gives a crisp crust.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store leftover waffles in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Freezer: Not recommended; texture may become soggy after thawing.
Room temperature: Best served warm; can sit at room temperature for up to 1 hour.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the tuna‑miso‑mayo mixture up to 2 days ahead and keep refrigerated in a sealed container.
- Re‑heat cooked waffles briefly in the waffle iron or a microwave before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of tuna with miso mayo and Sriracha in American fusion cuisine?
The combination reflects the growing popularity of Japanese umami ingredients like miso in Western quick‑snack dishes. Mixing tuna—a staple protein in many cultures—with Sriracha’s Southeast Asian heat creates a modern, globally‑inspired flavor that appeals to busy families.
How did miso paste become popular in Western quick‑snack recipes like this tuna waffle?
Miso’s rich, salty depth was introduced to Western home cooks through the rise of Japanese cuisine and health‑focused cooking blogs. Its ability to add umami without extra salt makes it a favorite for fast, nutritious snacks.
What traditional Japanese ingredients are used in this tuna waffle and why?
White miso paste provides a gentle umami base, while sesame oil adds a nutty aroma common in Japanese dressings. These ingredients balance the richness of mayo and the heat of Sriracha, creating a harmonious flavor profile.
In what occasions or celebrations is a tuna waffle like this served in modern American families?
Because it’s quick, gluten‑free, and kid‑friendly, families often serve it as a snack after school, at picnics, or as a light lunch during busy weekdays. Its heart shape makes it popular for birthday parties or Valentine’s Day treats.
What regional variations exist for tuna‑based snacks in Japanese and American cuisines?
In Japan, tuna is often served as tataki or mixed with mayo in sushi rolls. In the U.S., tuna salads and tuna melts are common. This waffle merges the Japanese miso‑mayo concept with the American love of handheld, crispy snacks.
What authentic traditional ingredients are in this tuna waffle versus acceptable substitutes?
Authentic ingredients include white miso, Sriracha, and sesame oil. Acceptable substitutes are red miso for a stronger flavor, hot sauce instead of Sriracha, or olive oil in place of sesame oil while still keeping the dish gluten‑free.
What other gluten‑free toddler‑friendly dishes pair well with this tuna waffle?
Serve alongside steamed veggie sticks, a simple cucumber‑yogurt dip, or a side of quinoa salad. Fresh fruit or a dairy‑free vanilla yogurt makes a balanced meal for little ones.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making tuna with miso mayo and Sriracha in a waffle maker?
Common errors include over‑filling the waffle plates, not preheating the iron, and using too much mayo which makes the mixture soggy. Ensure the mixture is firm enough to hold shape and the iron is hot before adding the batter.
How do I know when the tuna waffle is done cooking and ready to flip or remove?
The waffle is done when the edges turn a deep golden‑brown and the interior is hot throughout (about 165°F). The surface should feel firm to the touch and release easily from the plates.
Can I make the tuna mixture ahead of time and how should I store it before cooking?
Yes, mix the tuna, miso, mayo, Sriracha, and seasonings up to two days in advance. Store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator; give it a quick stir before spooning onto the waffle iron.
What does the YouTube channel Kelly Kruger Brooks specialize in?
The YouTube channel Kelly Kruger Brooks focuses on quick, easy, gluten‑free recipes that are toddler‑friendly. Kelly often showcases kitchen gadgets like mini waffle makers to create fun, healthy meals for families.
How does the YouTube channel Kelly Kruger Brooks approach gluten‑free toddler‑friendly recipes compared to other cooking channels?
Kelly emphasizes minimal ingredients, short prep times, and kid‑approved flavors, often using familiar pantry items with a gluten‑free twist. Unlike many channels, Kelly frequently demonstrates how to use cute kitchen tools to make meals visually appealing for young children.
Last updated: September 6, 2026
