Yaki Onigiri (Grilled Rice Balls)

Yaki Onigiri (Grilled Rice Balls) are a delicious and versatile snack, perfect for any occasion. These Japanese grilled rice balls feature a delightful contrast between their crispy, charred exterior and soft, steamy interior. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, a side dish, or a light meal, they are sure to impress friends and family with their unique flavors and textures.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can whip up these rice balls in no time.
• Flavorful: The combination of sesame oil and soy sauce gives Yaki Onigiri a rich umami flavor that is simply irresistible.
• Versatile: Enjoy them as a main dish, snack, or packed lunch; they can be served warm or at room temperature.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite fillings or toppings to make these rice balls uniquely yours.
• Perfect for Sharing: Cut them into bite-sized pieces for parties or gatherings; they’re a hit with everyone!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making Yaki Onigiri, gather your tools for a smooth cooking experience. Having the right equipment will help you create perfectly shaped rice balls.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Rice cooker or pot
• Mixing bowl
• Skillet
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Rice cooker: Ensures perfectly cooked sushi rice every time without fuss.
• Mixing bowl: Necessary for combining ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
• Skillet: Ideal for achieving that crisp outer layer on the rice balls while grilling.

Ingredients

To make Yaki Onigiri (Grilled Rice Balls), you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cup uncooked sushi rice (short grain or medium grain)
• 2 cups water
• 2 teaspoon toasted black sesame seeds
• 2 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoon mirin
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Nori sheets (cut into 2 inch pieces)
• Furikake seasoning (optional)

How to Make Yaki Onigiri (Grilled Rice Balls)

Step 1: Cook the Rice

Wash the uncooked rice under running water until the water runs clear. Combine the rice and water in a rice cooker or on the stovetop and cook until done.

Step 2: Season the Rice

Once cooked, season the rice with toasted sesame seeds and sesame oil. Mix until combined. Allow it to cool until you can handle it comfortably.

Step 3: Mold the Rice

Wet your hands with water. Take about 1/2 cup of seasoned rice in your hands and firmly press it into a triangle shape. Alternatively, use a mold if available.

Step 4: Make Soy Mixture

In a small mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, mirin, and sugar. Mix well until the sugar is dissolved. Set aside this flavorful mixture for later use.

Step 5: Grill

Lightly coat your skillet with oil over medium heat. Grill each onigiri until all sides are crispy and golden brown; this should take about 2–3 minutes on each side. Avoid flipping too often to keep them intact.

Step 6: Season with Soy Sauce Mixture

Reduce heat to low. Brush one side of each onigiri with the soy sauce mixture before flipping to caramelize; cook for about 10–15 seconds per side. Be cautious as they can burn quickly! Once done, sprinkle furikake seasoning while warm if desired, wrap with nori strips, and enjoy!

Servings: 6 pieces
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Course: Appetizer, Lunch & Dinner Recipes
Cuisine: Japanese

How to Serve Yaki Onigiri (Grilled Rice Balls)

Yaki Onigiri (Grilled Rice Balls) are wonderfully versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience with these delicious snacks.

Pair with Dipping Sauces

• Soy Sauce: A classic choice, providing a savory flavor that complements the rice balls.
• Spicy Mayo: Mix mayonnaise with sriracha for a creamy, spicy dip that adds a kick.
• Sesame Dressing: Drizzle this nutty dressing for an extra layer of flavor.

Create a Bento Box

• Veggies: Add sliced cucumbers, carrots, or pickled radishes for freshness.
• Fruits: Include seasonal fruits like grapes or melon for a sweet contrast.
• Protein: Pair with grilled chicken or tofu for a complete meal.

Top with Furikake

• Furikake Sprinkle: This Japanese seasoning blend enhances the flavor and adds texture. Sprinkle it generously on warm onigiri.

Wrap in Nori

• Nori Strips: Use cut nori sheets to wrap around each grilled rice ball, adding umami and making them easier to hold.

How to Perfect Yaki Onigiri (Grilled Rice Balls)

Creating the perfect Yaki Onigiri requires attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your rice balls turn out delicious every time.

• Use Sushi Rice: The sticky texture of sushi rice helps the balls hold their shape better than regular rice.
• Wet Your Hands: Before molding the rice, wet your hands to prevent sticking and make shaping easier.
• Don’t Overcook: Avoid overcooking the rice; it should be fluffy and slightly firm for optimal grilling results.
• Medium Heat is Key: Grill on medium heat to achieve that crispy exterior without burning the outside while leaving the inside undercooked.
• Brush Soy Sauce Sparingly: When caramelizing with soy sauce, use just enough to coat without oversaturating the rice balls.
• Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to add fillings like grilled chicken or vegetables inside the onigiri for added flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Yaki Onigiri (Grilled Rice Balls)

To complement your Yaki Onigiri, consider these delightful side dishes that will enhance your meal experience.

1. Edamame: Lightly salted edamame provides a healthy snack rich in protein.
2. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup pairs well, offering comforting flavors.
3. Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickles balance the richness of grilled rice balls nicely.
4. Teriyaki Chicken Skewers: These sweet and savory skewers make for a hearty addition alongside onigiri.
5. Seaweed Salad: A fresh seaweed salad enhances the meal with its crunch and umami flavor.
6. Tempura Vegetables: Crispy tempura adds texture and complements the soft onigiri beautifully.
7. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in vinegar offers a light contrast to grilled rice balls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Yaki Onigiri (Grilled Rice Balls) can be simple, but a few common mistakes can affect the final result. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Using the wrong rice: Always use sushi rice or short-grain rice for the best texture. Long-grain rice will not hold its shape well.
• Not washing the rice: Failing to wash the rice can lead to excess starch, making the onigiri mushy. Rinse until the water runs clear for perfect grains.
• Ignoring cooling time: Working with hot rice makes it difficult to mold. Let the rice cool to a manageable temperature before shaping your onigiri.
• Overcooking or undercooking the onigiri: Keep an eye on grilling time; overcooked onigiri can burn while undercooked ones may fall apart. Aim for a crispy, golden brown surface.
• Skipping seasoning adjustments: Each soy sauce brand varies in saltiness. Taste your soy mixture and adjust according to your preference for optimal flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow Yaki Onigiri to cool completely before refrigerating to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Yaki Onigiri (Grilled Rice Balls)

• Wrap each onigiri individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Yaki Onigiri (Grilled Rice Balls)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place onigiri on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Lightly coat a pan with oil over medium heat. Sear on each side for about 2-3 minutes until heated and crispy again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions people have about making Yaki Onigiri (Grilled Rice Balls):

How do I make Yaki Onigiri (Grilled Rice Balls) spicy?

You can add chili flakes or spicy sauces into the soy mixture while brushing it onto the onigiri during grilling for extra heat.

Can I customize my Yaki Onigiri fillings?

Absolutely! Feel free to add cooked chicken, vegetables, or other seasonings into the rice before shaping them into balls.

What type of soy sauce is best for Yaki Onigiri?

Use low-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching your salt intake; otherwise, regular soy sauce provides robust flavor.

How long does it take to prepare Yaki Onigiri?

The total time is around 30 minutes, including preparation and cooking, but allow time for cooling before shaping.

Can I use leftover rice for making Yaki Onigiri?

Yes! Leftover sushi or short-grain rice works well as long as it’s not too dry. Add a little water if needed before molding.

Final Thoughts

Yaki Onigiri (Grilled Rice Balls) are not only delicious but also versatile! You can easily customize them with various fillings and seasonings. Perfect as appetizers or snacks, they offer delightful textures and flavors that everyone will enjoy. Give this recipe a try, and don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite ingredients!

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Yaki Onigiri (Grilled Rice Balls)

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Makes approximately 6 pieces 1x

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Description

Enjoy delicious Yaki Onigiri (Grilled Rice Balls) at home! With crispy textures and rich flavors, this recipe is a must-try snack.

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Ingredients

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• 1 1/2 cups uncooked sushi rice
• 2 cups water
• 2 teaspoons toasted black sesame seeds
• 2 teaspoons sesame oil
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Nori sheets (cut into strips)
• Furikake seasoning (optional)

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Instructions

1. Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until clear. Cook with water in a rice cooker or pot until fully cooked.
2. Once cooked, combine the rice with sesame seeds and sesame oil; let it cool slightly.
3. Wet your hands and form about 1/2 cup of the rice mixture into triangle shapes.
4. Mix soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar in a bowl for later use.
5. Heat a skillet over medium heat with oil; grill each onigiri until golden brown on all sides (about 2–3 minutes per side).
6. Brush one side of each grilled onigiri with the soy mixture to caramelize before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Japanese

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 23g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 0mg