01 -
Place sushi rice in a fine mesh strainer. Rinse thoroughly under cold running water for about 1 minute until the water runs clear.
02 -
Cook rinsed sushi rice according to the package instructions or using a rice cooker.
03 -
In a small saucepan, combine rice vinegar, granulated sugar, and Kosher salt. Bring to a simmer and whisk until dissolved. Pour the seasoned vinegar over the cooked rice in its pot and gently fold using a rice paddle or spatula to incorporate without mashing the grains.
04 -
Transfer seasoned rice to a quarter sheet pan or a rectangular container lined with plastic wrap. Press into an even layer approximately 1.5 cm thick. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to firm.
05 -
Dice ahi tuna into small cubes, then finely chop using a sharp knife. Place in a mixing bowl and add thinly sliced scallions.
06 -
In a separate bowl, combine Kewpie mayonnaise, Sriracha, and ponzu sauce. Whisk until smooth. Add the mixture to the chopped tuna and mix gently to combine. Cover and refrigerate until assembly.
07 -
Remove chilled rice from the container. With a sharp knife dipped in water, cut rice into bite-sized rectangles about 5 cm x 2 cm. Heat grapeseed oil in a large skillet over medium heat to coat the base evenly. Carefully fry batches of rice rectangles for about 2 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer to a cooling rack lined with paper towel.
08 -
Top each crispy rice rectangle with a generous spoonful of spicy tuna mixture. Garnish with black sesame seeds and a slice of jalapeño. Drizzle with additional spicy mayonnaise if desired and serve immediately.