Yaki Onigiri (Grilled Rice Balls)
Yaki Onigiri, or grilled rice balls, are a delightful fusion of crispy exteriors and soft, fluffy centers that make for an irresistible snack or appetizer. These Japanese treats are easy to prepare at home and offer a savory flavor profile thanks to a rich soy marinade. Perfect for any occasion, Yaki Onigiri can be customized with your choice of fillings and served alongside dipping sauces or fresh sides. Whether you enjoy them as a quick bite or part of a larger meal, these grilled rice balls are sure to impress family and friends.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 4 servings (8 rice balls) 1x
- Category: Snack/Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients
Scale
- 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 plant-based mirin substitute (such as fruit juice)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Nori sheets (for wrapping)
Instructions
- Rinse sushi rice under running water until clear. Cook in a rice cooker or pot with water until tender.
- Once cooked, mix in toasted sesame seeds and sesame oil; let cool.
- Wet hands and shape about 1/2 cup of rice into triangles.
- Combine soy sauce, mirin substitute, and sugar in a bowl; set aside.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat with a little oil, then grill onigiri until golden brown on all sides, about 2-3 minutes each.
- Brush with the soy sauce mixture to caramelize, sprinkle with furikake if desired, wrap with nori, and serve.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 rice balls (90g)
- Calories: 170
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 470mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Find it online: https://recipesbypenelope.com/yaki-onigiri-grilled-rice-balls/