Tuna-Rice Balls
Tuna-Rice Balls offer a savory blend of flaked tuna, herbs, and rice, simmered in a flavorful tomato-based broth—perfect for a comforting, easy meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine drained and flaked tuna, chopped onion, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Blend tomato soup, water, and sugar in a skillet and bring to a boil.
- Mix 2 tablespoons of the soup mixture into the rice mixture along with the slightly beaten eggs.
- Press the rice mixture into twenty 1-inch balls.
- Add the rice balls to the boiling soup mixture.
- Reduce heat to simmer.
- Cover and simmer for 15 minutes, basting occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use freshly cooked Minute rice instead of leftover rice to ensure the right texture. You can substitute canned salmon for tuna if desired, or use a mix of vegetables like bell peppers or corn for added flavor. If you prefer a bit of spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tuna mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the tuna-rice balls with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. They pair beautifully with Maxcine'S Tuna And Rice Casserole for a hearty dinner. A dollop of sour cream or a light yogurt dressing can enhance the flavors and add creaminess to the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover tuna-rice balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat or microwave them for 30-60 seconds until heated through. Adding a splash of water can help keep them moist during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tuna-Rice Balls contains roughly 393 calories, with 32g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (212% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (125% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2145mg per serving (93% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of Minute rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it requires a longer cooking time. Be sure to adjust the amount of water and cooking duration according to the package instructions for brown rice.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the rice balls in advance and store them in the fridge. Just cook them in the soup mixture closer to serving time to ensure they remain moist and flavorful.
What can I serve with these tuna-rice balls?
These rice balls are versatile and can be served with a variety of sides. Consider pairing them with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or even a tangy dipping sauce to complement the flavors.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).