Delicious Yaki Onigiri Grilled Rice Balls Recipe and Tips
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Author:souzanfood
Total Time:30 minutes
Yield:4 servings 1x
Description
Savor authentic Yaki Onigiri with our easy recipe Discover tips for grilling perfect rice balls that are crispy on the outside and fluffy inside
Ingredients
Scale
2 cups of cooked short-grain rice
1 tablespoon of soy sauce
1 tablespoon of mirin
Salt to taste
Optional Stuffing: cooked salmon, umami-rich mushrooms, or grilled veggies
Optional Garnishes: sesame seeds, chopped green onions, or nori strips
Instructions
Prepare Your Rice: If you haven’t already cooked your rice, make sure to use sushi rice or any short-grain variety. Rinse it under cold water until the water runs clear, then cook it according to package instructions. It should be sticky and fluffy. If you have leftovers, even better!
Season the Rice: Once your rice is cooked, while it’s still warm, stir in the soy sauce, mirin, and a pinch of salt. This is where the magic starts! Taste it and adjust, if needed.
Shape the Rice Balls: Wet your hands with water (this helps keep things non-sticky) and take about 1/4 cup of the seasoned rice in your palm. Gently press it into a ball or triangle shape. Don’t rush this step—it’s where the magic happens!
Add Stuffing (Optional): If you're adding fillings, create a little indentation in the center of the rice ball and place your chosen stuffing. Then mold the rice around it to seal it in!
Grill the Rice Balls: Heat a grill pan or a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Lightly oil the surface and place your rice balls in the pan. Cook until golden brown, about 4–5 minutes on each side. The goal is to achieve a crispy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the soft inside.
Garnish and Serve: If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onions on top, or wrap a strip of nori around each rice ball for that extra flair. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
Yaki Onigiri are grilled rice balls that embody comfort food, made from simple ingredients and perfect for customizing with various toppings and stuffings.
