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Spicy Tuna Buns fresh out of the oven with sesame seeds

SPICY TUNA BUNS: A PERFECT BLEND OF HEAT AND FLAVOR

These Spicy Tuna Buns combine the bold flavors of spicy sushi tuna with soft, fluffy dough, creating an irresistible snack or meal. You can either bake them for a golden crust or steam them for a light, airy texture. Perfect for sushi lovers who enjoy a comforting twist!
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Appetizer, Main Course, Snack
Cuisine Asian Fusion, Japanese
Servings 4 people
Calories 200 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • For the Dough:
  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons instant yeast
  • ¾ cup warm water
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • For the Spicy Tuna Filling:
  • 1 cup sushi-grade tuna, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons Kewpie mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 green onion, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
  • For Brushing (Baked Buns Only):
  • 1 egg yolk + 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Prepare the Dough
  • In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and yeast.
  • Add warm water and vegetable oil, then mix until a soft dough forms.
  • Knead the dough for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  • Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1 hour.
  • Step 2: Make the Spicy Tuna Filling
  • In a bowl, mix tuna, mayonnaise, Sriracha, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes.
  • Stir in chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
  • Cover and refrigerate for 15 minutes.
  • Step 3: Assemble the Buns
  • Divide the risen dough into 8 equal pieces and roll each into a ball.
  • Flatten each ball into a 4-inch circle, keeping the center slightly thicker.
  • Add 1 ½ tablespoons of spicy tuna filling to the center.
  • Gather the edges and pinch tightly to seal, placing them seam-side down.
  • Let the shaped buns rest for 15 minutes before cooking.
  • Step 4: Cook the Buns
  • 🔥 Baking Method:
  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Brush buns with egg wash.
  • Bake for 15–18 minutes until golden brown.
  • 🌫️ Steaming Method:
  • ✔️ Place buns in a parchment-lined steamer.
  • ✔️ Steam over medium heat for 12–15 minutes.
  • Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
  • 🍽️ Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
  • 🥢 Serve with soy sauce, spicy mayo, or ponzu sauce for dipping.

Notes

✔️ Adjust spice level by adding more or less Sriracha or red pepper flakes.
✔️ Canned tuna can be used as an alternative to sushi-grade tuna.
✔️ Store leftovers in an airtight container: Refrigerate for 3 days or Freeze for 1 month.
✔️ Reheating Tips: Steamed buns: Steam for 5 minutes | Baked buns: Oven at 350°F for 5 minutes.
Keyword Baked Buns, Japanese Snacks, Spicy Tuna Buns, Sushi Buns, Steamed Buns, Sushi-Inspired Recipes