Spicy Tuna Jalapeno Bites

Name: Spicy Tuna Jalapeno Bites
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 24 bites
Ingredients: 8 oz fresh sushi-grade tuna, diced; 1 jalapeno, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat); 1 ripe avocado, mashed; 2 tbsp mayonnaise; 1 tbsp sriracha sauce; 1 tbsp lime juice; Salt to taste; 24 wonton wrappers; Oil for frying; Chopped cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Culinary Recipe Ideas

I love making Spicy Tuna Jalapeno Bites for gatherings and parties! These little bites pack a punch of flavor with just the right amount of heat. It's a quick recipe that combines fresh tuna with spicy jalapenos and creamy avocado, all nestled in a crispy wonton shell. Trust me, they disappear fast, and everyone always asks for the recipe. They’re perfect as appetizers or snacks to impress your guests, and I can’t wait for you to try them out!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-15T11:51:30.978Z

When I first made Spicy Tuna Jalapeno Bites, I wanted something that could surprise and delight my guests. Combining fresh ingredients with a kick, I found the balance of flavors that keeps everyone coming back for more. The way the creamy avocado mellows the heat of the jalapenos is simply sensational!

One key tip I discovered is to chill the tuna mixture before assembling. This ensures that the flavors meld beautifully and helps the bites hold together better during frying. I can assure you, trying these will elevate any occasion!

        You Will Love These Bites Because
        A perfect blend of spicy and creamy textures
Easy to make yet impressive for guests
Crispy wonton shell adds a delightful crunch

      

Mastering the Wonton Shell

Getting the wonton shells just right is crucial for the success of your Spicy Tuna Jalapeno Bites. When you fry them, keep an eye on the oil temperature, aiming for around 350°F (175°C). At this temperature, the wontons will puff up nicely and achieve that irresistible golden-brown color. If the oil is too cool, they’ll absorb too much oil, becoming soggy; if it’s too hot, they’ll burn before cooking through. Use a thermometer for accuracy if you're unsure.

For an even more delightful crunch, consider double-frying the wontons. Fry them lightly on the first go until they’re set but not yet brown, then remove them and allow to cool slightly. Return them to the hot oil for a second fry until they achieve that perfect golden hue. This technique enhances the texture, giving your bites an added crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.

Ingredient Spotlight: Fresh Tuna

Using high-quality sushi-grade tuna is key to achieving the best flavor and texture in these bites. Fresh tuna should have a vibrant red color and a slight sheen. When sourcing your tuna, don’t be shy—ask questions and ensure it’s been handled properly. Sushi-grade means it’s safe to eat raw, which is essential for this recipe. If you're in a pinch, you can substitute with diced cooked shrimp or even canned tuna, but freshness will give you the most vibrant flavor and texture.

In addition to tuna, the balance of flavors in the filling is vital. The creaminess of the avocado plays a significant role in tempering the heat from the jalapenos and the kick of sriracha. If you're aiming for a milder flavor profile, experiment with the amount of sriracha or opt for a milder hot sauce. You can also mix in some finely chopped cucumber or scallions to add a crunchy texture without overwhelming the existing flavors.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before you start:

For the Spicy Tuna Filling

8 oz fresh sushi-grade tuna, diced
1 jalapeno, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat)
1 ripe avocado, mashed
2 tbsp mayonnaise
1 tbsp sriracha sauce
1 tbsp lime juice
Salt to taste

For Assembly

24 wonton wrappers
Oil for frying
Chopped cilantro for garnish

Make sure to check for any allergies before serving!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Spicy Tuna Jalapeno Bites:

Prepare the Tuna Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the diced tuna, chopped jalapeno, mashed avocado, mayonnaise, sriracha, lime juice, and salt. Mix gently until just combined. Cover and refrigerate for about 15 minutes.

Assemble the Bites

Take a wonton wrapper and place about a tablespoon of the tuna mixture in the center. Moisten the edges with water, fold the wrapper over to create a triangle, and press to seal. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.

Fry the Bites

Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully fry the wonton triangles until golden and crispy. This should take about 2-3 minutes per side.

Remove and drain on paper towels.

Serve

Plate the crispy bites, garnish with chopped cilantro, and serve with additional sriracha on the side for dipping!

Enjoy these flavorful bites hot and fresh!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, serve with a side of pickled jalapenos or your favorite hot sauce.

Make-Ahead Tips

These Spicy Tuna Jalapeno Bites can be made ahead of time without compromising on quality. Prepare the filling up to a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This not only saves time on the day of your gathering but also allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste. Just remember to assemble and fry the wontons shortly before serving to retain their crispy texture.

If you want to prepare the whole dish in advance, consider freezing the assembled wontons. Lay them flat in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can go directly from the freezer to the hot oil, cooking for about 1-2 minutes longer than fresh ones. This method ensures you can whip up a batch even when unexpected guests drop by!

Serving Variations

While the bites are fantastic on their own, don’t hesitate to customize your dipping options. Besides sriracha, a soy sauce-based dip or a tangy ponzu sauce can complement the tuna beautifully. Consider adding a splash of sesame oil to your dipping sauce for an extra layer of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the freshness of the tuna.

For a stunning presentation, serve the bites on a platter with a garnish of lime wedges and additional cilantro. You can arrange them in a circular pattern around a small bowl of dipping sauce, creating a vibrant and inviting centerpiece for your gathering. Adding thinly sliced radishes or pickled vegetables can further elevate the dish, providing a colorful showcase that will impress your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the filling in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the filling a few hours ahead and keep it refrigerated until you're ready to assemble.

→ What if I can't find wonton wrappers?

You can substitute with spring roll wrappers or even use slices of cucumber for a fresh twist.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free wonton wrappers or skip the wrappers entirely to make it gluten-free.

→ How do I ensure the wontons stay crispy?

Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying and drain them properly on paper towels after frying.