Got leftover rice and a can of tuna? Transform them into a hearty, flavor-packed meal in just 25 minutes with this Filipino-style Tuna Fried Rice! Perfect for busy weeknights, lazy lunches, or even breakfast, this dish proves that simple ingredients can create something truly delicious.
✔ Zero waste hero – Revives leftover rice effortlessly.
✔ Budget-friendly – Canned tuna + basic pantry staples.
✔ Balanced meal – Packed with protein, veggies, and carbs.
✔ Customizable – Adjust spices and add-ins to your taste!
🍳 Use day-old rice – Less moisture = better texture!
🔥 High heat stir-fry – Prevents soggy rice.
🌶️ Spice it up – Add chopped chili or a dash of patis (fish sauce) for depth.
🍽️ Top with a fried egg – Runny yolk = instant sauce!
🥢 Pair with atchara – The pickled tang cuts through the richness.
🍋 Squeeze calamansi – Brightens all the flavors.
Fun Fact: In the Philippines, fried rice isn’t just a side dish – it’s meal-worthy comfort food, especially when loaded with tuna!
One bite and you’ll never look at leftovers the same way again! 😋🍚
For more recipes feel free to browse our recipe archive. A video guide link is available here: Tuna Fried Rice Recipe.
Tuna Fried Rice Filipino Recipe. Feel free to substitute your favorite tuna for the canned tuna. Although I used basic tuna flakes in oil in this dish. If you want a little more heat, spicy tuna is a great option. Tuna fried rice is something I prepare frequently. The fact that it contains vegetables is an extra benefit, so I often add carrot and cabbage. But you may add other vegetables you want as well, like bell pepper and spring onions.
In a pan, heat 2 tbsp. cooking oil, then sauté minced garlic and onion.
Add the cooked rice, and then add the diced carrots. Cook on low heat and mix to incorporate.
Add the canned tuna and stir fry to combine, then add soy sauce, hot chili liquid seasoning, salt, and ground black pepper. Continue to stir-fry.
Add grated cheese (if desired) and Chinese pechy or cabbage, followed by finely chopped spring onion. Stir-fry for a few more seconds.
Serve while still warm.
Servings 4
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.