Spicy Tuna Kimbap: A Flavorful Twist on Classic Korean Rolls

Name: Spicy Tuna Kimbap
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked short-grain rice; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 8 sheets nori (roasted seaweed); 1 can (5 oz) tuna, drained; 2 tablespoons mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste); 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 1 teaspoon soy sauce; 1 small carrot, julienned; 1 small cucumber, julienned; 4-6 strips pickled radish (danmuji); optional toasted sesame seeds for garnish

Posted on June 27, 2025

Apptizer Recipes

If you’re looking for a dish that’s as satisfying as it is simple, then look no further than Spicy Tuna Kimbap. This recipe takes the classic Korean seaweed rice roll to a whole new level with a creamy, spicy tuna filling that blends perfectly with fresh veggies and fragrant rice, all wrapped in crisp seaweed. It’s the kind of dish you’ll want to make for lunch, snack time, or even a picnic in the park.

The best part? It’s quick to assemble, so whether you’re prepping for a busy week or need a fun, hands-on meal for the whole family, Spicy Tuna Kimbap is your answer. Let’s dive into this easy, customizable recipe that brings all the flavors of Korean comfort food into your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to love this Spicy Tuna Kimbap recipe, and it’s more than just the unbeatable flavor. First off, it’s quick and easy, ready in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for those busy weeknight dinners or when you’re craving something fresh and light. Healthy comfort food doesn’t get much easier than this!

Packed with high-protein meals thanks to the tuna, these rolls are filling enough to keep you satisfied while still feeling light and healthy. You’ll be able to satisfy your craving for easy high protein high calorie meals without worrying about it being too heavy or greasy. Plus, they’re great for meal prep, so you can make a batch for lunchboxes, snacks, or even quick family meals throughout the week.

The combination of spicy tuna, fresh veggies, and the slight crunch of seaweed makes for a tasty yet balanced meal that is perfect for those who love budget-friendly recipes that don’t compromise on flavor or nutrition. Whether you’re on a keto meal plan or just looking to eat healthier, you can easily adjust the spice and flavor profile to suit your dietary needs.

What Makes This Recipe Special?

What truly makes this Spicy Tuna Kimbap special is how versatile it is. You can customize the ingredients to fit your personal taste and preferences. If you like your rolls with a little more crunch, feel free to add in cucumber, avocado, or even pickled radish for a tangy contrast. You can make it gluten-free by simply checking your ingredients like soy sauce and mayonnaise or swapping in alternatives.

Also, the beauty of kimbap lies in the balance of flavors. The tuna filling is spicy and savory, but it’s cooled down by the refreshing greens and sweet, crunchy vegetables. The rice is seasoned with sesame oil, giving it a slightly nutty taste that enhances the flavors of the fish and veggies. Wrapped in crispy roasted seaweed, each bite is an explosion of textures and flavors that make this dish irresistible.

This recipe can easily become a go-to meal prep option, especially for healthy meal plans for two. The rolls are light but filling, making them the perfect snack or meal for when you’re on the go.

Ingredients

Cooked short-grain rice
Sesame oil
Sesame seeds
Salt
Roasted seaweed sheets (gim or nori)
Canned tuna, drained
Mayonnaise (Kewpie preferred)
Sriracha or gochujang (Korean chili paste)
Scallions, finely chopped
Perilla leaves or green leaf lettuce

These simple ingredients come together to create a fresh, flavorful roll that you’ll want to eat again and again. The key is in the quality of the rice and tuna – make sure to use sticky short-grain rice for the perfect texture, and choose a tuna that is packed in water for a lighter, healthier filling.

How to Make It Step-by-Step

Making Spicy Tuna Kimbap is incredibly simple and fast. Here’s how to do it:

Season the rice: Start by cooking your rice and then season it while it’s still warm. In a bowl, mix the cooked rice with sesame oil, sesame seeds, and a pinch of salt. The sesame oil is what gives the rice that characteristic nutty flavor that complements the tuna filling.
Prepare the tuna: In a separate bowl, combine the drained tuna with mayonnaise, sriracha (or gochujang), and finely chopped scallions. You can adjust the amount of sriracha or gochujang depending on your preferred spice level. Mix it all together until the tuna is well-coated and the mixture is creamy and flavorful.
Prepare the seaweed sheets: Place a sheet of roasted seaweed (shiny side down) on a bamboo mat or a clean surface. The bamboo mat helps you roll the kimbap tightly and evenly, which is key to keeping the rolls intact.
Assemble the kimbap: Spread a thin, even layer of the seasoned rice over ¾ of the seaweed sheet, leaving the top ¼ of the sheet bare. This will help seal the roll when you finish.
Add the fillings: Lay perilla leaves (or lettuce) in the center of the rice, then add a line of your spicy tuna mixture. You can also add julienned carrots, cucumber, or avocado at this stage for extra crunch and flavor.
Roll it up: Using the bamboo mat, gently roll the kimbap from the bottom up, applying a little pressure to ensure the roll is firm. When you reach the top edge of the seaweed, dampen it with a little water and seal the roll tightly.
Slice and serve: Brush the roll with a little sesame oil and use a sharp knife to slice it into bite-sized pieces. Arrange the slices on a plate, sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds, and serve immediately or store for later.

Tips for Best Results

Use warm rice: When seasoning your rice, make sure it’s still warm so the sesame oil and seasoning mix easily into the rice.
Roll tightly: A tight roll helps the kimbap hold its shape and keeps the filling from falling out. Don’t be afraid to apply a bit of pressure as you roll.
Use a sharp knife: To get clean, neat slices, make sure you’re using a sharp knife. Wetting the knife between cuts can help prevent the rice from sticking to the blade.
Adjust the spice level: Depending on your tolerance for spice, you can adjust the amount of sriracha or gochujang in the tuna mixture. Start with a little and add more if you like it spicy.
Add extra toppings: If you like extra crunch, try adding pickled radish or cucumber into the filling for a refreshing contrast to the spicy tuna.

Ingredient Substitutions & Variations

Cucumber and Avocado: For more crunch and freshness, add cucumber and avocado to the filling. They balance out the spicy tuna with a cool, creamy texture.
Tofu or Cooked Salmon: If you’re looking for a vegan meal prep option, you can substitute the tuna with mashed tofu mixed with vegan mayo and chili paste. For a non-vegetarian alternative, you can use cooked salmon for a slightly richer filling.
Lettuce for Perilla Leaves: If you can’t find perilla leaves (a common herb used in Korean cooking), don’t worry. Green leaf lettuce or even romaine can work well as a substitute.
Spicy Mayo: If you want to take it up a notch, add a drizzle of spicy mayo on top of the rolls for an extra layer of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

As a Snack: These rolls are perfect for meal prep microwave lunches or as a quick snack. They’re easy to grab and go, making them ideal for busy days.
With Soy Sauce: For an extra burst of flavor, serve your kimbap with a little soy sauce mixed with sesame oil. It adds a salty, savory touch that pairs beautifully with the spicy tuna.
On the Go: Wrap up the kimbap and pack it in a lunchbox for a satisfying lunch or picnic snack. The rolls are easy to eat without utensils, making them a great choice for eating on the go.

Pairing Ideas (Drinks, Sides, etc.)

Beverages: Pair these spicy tuna rolls with a cold glass of iced green tea or a refreshing lemonade to balance the richness of the tuna.
Sides: Serve with a light, crunchy side like kimchi or a simple cucumber salad for added texture and a pop of flavor. For a more filling meal, you could add a bowl of miso soup or edamame.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, here’s how to store them:

Storage: Store the rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. They’re best eaten fresh, but you can still enjoy them the next day.
Reheat: To reheat, wrap the kimbap in a damp paper towel and microwave for 10-15 seconds to soften the rice and bring it back to life.

Make-Ahead and Freezer Tips

Make-Ahead: You can prep these rolls ahead of time by assembling them in the morning or the night before. Just make sure to wrap them tightly to prevent the rice from drying out.
Freezer Tips: While kimbap doesn’t freeze particularly well due to the rice texture, you can make the tuna filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using the wrong rice: Short-grain rice is essential for this recipe. It’s sticky and will hold the kimbap together. Long-grain rice doesn’t have the same texture and will cause the rolls to fall apart.
Not rolling tightly enough: If your rolls aren’t tightly packed, the filling will fall out. Make sure to roll firmly using the bamboo mat.
Overfilling: Too much filling can make it difficult to roll the kimbap and could cause it to fall apart. Keep the fillings to a moderate amount.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use leftover rice?
Yes, you can use leftover rice, but make sure to warm it slightly and season it with sesame oil and salt before using it for kimbap.

What’s a good substitute for perilla leaves?
If you can’t find perilla leaves, you can substitute with green leaf lettuce, romaine, or shiso if available.

How can I make this vegan?
Substitute the tuna with mashed tofu or chickpeas mixed with vegan mayo and chili paste for a vegan-friendly version.

How do I keep the kimbap from falling apart?
Use sticky short-grain rice and roll tightly. A bamboo mat helps with even pressure for a firm roll.

Cooking Tools You’ll Need

Bamboo mat (or a clean surface)
Sharp knife
Small bowl for mixing
Measuring spoons

If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and satisfying meal, Spicy Tuna Kimbap is a winner. Perfect for busy days, meal prep, or a fun family activity, this recipe is full of flavor and super easy to make. Save it on Pinterest or share it with a friend—I guarantee you’ll be making these rolls all week!