Yaki Onigiri (Grilled Rice Balls)

Yaki Onigiri (Grilled Rice Balls) are a delightful and versatile snack that can elevate any meal or occasion. These Japanese grilled rice balls offer a unique blend of crispy, charred exteriors and soft, steamy interiors, making them a perfect choice for appetizers, lunch, or even a light dinner. With a simple soy marinade enhancing their flavor, these yaki onigiri are not only delicious but also easy to customize with your favorite seasonings and toppings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy and Charred: The grilling process creates a satisfying crunch on the outside while keeping the rice tender inside.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly and quick to prepare.
• Customizable Flavors: You can adapt the soy marinade or add different toppings like furikake to suit your taste preferences.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet night in, these rice balls are an ideal snack or side dish.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients, they offer a good balance of carbohydrates and flavor without any artificial additives.

Tools and Preparation

To make Yaki Onigiri successfully, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment can streamline your cooking process and ensure your rice balls turn out perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Rice cooker or pot
• Mixing bowl
• Skillet
• Spatula
• Nori sheets (for wrapping)

Importance of Each Tool

• Rice cooker: Ensures perfectly cooked sushi rice with minimal effort.
• Skillet: Ideal for achieving that crispy exterior while grilling your onigiri.
• Mixing bowl: Useful for combining ingredients smoothly without spilling.

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Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious Yaki Onigiri (Grilled Rice Balls):

For the Rice

• 1 1/2 cup uncooked sushi rice (short grain or medium grain)
• 2 cups water

For Seasoning

• 2 teaspoon toasted black sesame seeds
• 2 teaspoon sesame oil

For the Marinade

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoon mirin
• 1 teaspoon sugar

Additional Ingredients

• Nori sheets (cut into 2 inch pieces)
• Furikake seasoning (optional)

How to Make Yaki Onigiri (Grilled Rice Balls)

Follow these simple steps to create your own Yaki Onigiri at home.

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

After cooking, season the rice with toasted sesame seeds and sesame oil. Mix well until combined. Let it cool until you can handle it comfortably.

Step 3: Mold the Rice

Wet your hands with water to prevent sticking. Take about 1/2 cup of rice in your hands and firmly press it into a triangle shape. If using a mold, fill it with rice and press down firmly.

Step 4: Make Soy Mixture

In a small mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, mirin, and sugar. Stir until well mixed and sugar dissolves completely. Set aside for later use.

Step 5: Grill the Onigiri

Lightly coat your skillet with oil over medium heat. Grill each onigiri until all sides are crispy and golden brown—about 2-3 minutes per side. Be careful not to flip too often to keep them intact.

Step 6: Season with Soy Sauce Mixture

Lower heat to low. Brush one side of each grilled rice ball with soy sauce mixture, then flip to caramelize for about 10-15 seconds. Repeat for other sides quickly to avoid burning. Sprinkle with furikake while warm, wrap with nori strips, and enjoy!

How to Serve Yaki Onigiri (Grilled Rice Balls)

Yaki onigiri (grilled rice balls) are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. They make a delightful snack or can be part of a more substantial meal. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

As a Snack

• Pair with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
• Enjoy them warm or at room temperature; they retain their deliciousness either way.

With Nori Wraps

• Wrap each grilled rice ball with a strip of nori for added texture and taste.
• The seaweed adds a savory umami flavor that complements the rice perfectly.

In a Bento Box

• Include yaki onigiri in a bento box alongside pickles, vegetables, and fruit.
• This makes for a colorful and nutritious lunch option.

Served with Soup

• Pair yaki onigiri with miso soup or any light broth for a comforting meal.
• The warm soup enhances the overall dining experience.

How to Perfect Yaki Onigiri (Grilled Rice Balls)

Perfecting yaki onigiri is all about technique and attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your rice balls turn out delicious every time.

• Use sushi rice – Sushi rice has the perfect stickiness needed to hold the shape of your onigiri.
• Soak the rice – Soaking uncooked sushi rice for at least 30 minutes helps achieve a better texture when cooked.
• Press firmly – When shaping the rice, press it firmly but gently to prevent it from falling apart while grilling.
• Control the heat – Grill on medium heat to get that perfect crispy exterior without burning.
• Don’t over-flip – Limit flipping the onigiri while grilling to maintain their shape and prevent crumbling.
• Brush promptly – Apply the soy sauce mixture quickly towards the end of cooking for optimal flavor without burning.

Best Side Dishes for Yaki Onigiri (Grilled Rice Balls)

Yaki onigiri pairs well with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some great options you might consider serving alongside:

1. Edamame – Lightly salted steamed edamame provides a protein-packed side that balances the meal.
2. Pickled Vegetables – A vibrant assortment of pickled cucumbers or radishes adds tanginess and crunch.
3. Miso Soup – A warm bowl of miso soup offers comforting warmth and rich flavors that enhance the meal.
4. Seaweed Salad – This refreshing salad brings an oceanic flavor, making it an ideal pairing with onigiri.
5. Tempura Vegetables – Crispy tempura adds texture and variety, creating a satisfying contrast with grilled rice balls.
6. Sautéed Greens – Quick-cooked greens like spinach or bok choy provide nutrients and balance out the dish’s richness.
7. Tamagoyaki – This Japanese omelet is sweet and fluffy, making it an excellent companion for onigiri.
8. Fruit Slices – Fresh fruit like melon or citrus can cleanse the palate and add a refreshing touch after hearty bites.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making yaki onigiri can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the texture and flavor. Here are some mistakes to avoid.

• Not rinsing the rice – Failing to wash the sushi rice properly can lead to a sticky texture. Always rinse until the water runs clear to achieve fluffy rice.
• Using dry hands – Molded rice balls may fall apart if your hands are dry. Wet your hands with water before handling the rice for better adhesion.
• Overcooking or undercooking – Cooking rice at the wrong temperature or for too long can ruin its texture. Follow cooking instructions carefully for perfect rice.
• Skipping the seasoning – Neglecting to season the rice means missing out on essential flavor. Always mix in sesame oil and toasted sesame seeds after cooking.
• Flipping too often while grilling – Constantly flipping onigiri can cause them to break apart. Allow each side to crisp up before turning them just once.
• Not using enough oil while grilling – Insufficient oil can lead to sticking and uneven cooking. Lightly coat your skillet or grill pan for best results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store yaki onigiri in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Yaki Onigiri (Grilled Rice Balls)

• Place cooled yaki onigiri in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Yaki Onigiri (Grilled Rice Balls)

• Oven – Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Place onigiri on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 1-2 minutes.
• Stovetop – Heat a skillet over medium-low heat and grill each side for about 3-5 minutes until warmed up.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making yaki onigiri.

What is Yaki Onigiri (Grilled Rice Balls)?

Yaki onigiri is a Japanese dish made of grilled rice balls that have a crispy exterior and soft interior, often flavored with soy sauce.

Can I customize fillings for Yaki Onigiri?

Yes! You can add various fillings like cooked chicken, vegetables, or even tofu before shaping them into balls.

How do I ensure my Yaki Onigiri holds its shape?

Make sure to wet your hands while shaping and press firmly when molding the rice balls.

What type of rice is best for Yaki Onigiri?

Short grain or medium grain sushi rice works best due to its sticky texture, making it easier to mold.

Can I make Yaki Onigiri ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them in advance, store them in the fridge or freezer, and then reheat when ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

Yaki onigiri is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to experiment with different flavors and fillings. Whether served as a snack or part of a meal, these grilled rice balls are sure to impress. Try making this recipe today and feel free to customize it according to your taste!

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Yaki Onigiri (Grilled Rice Balls)

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Enjoy delicious Yaki Onigiri (Grilled Rice Balls) with crispy exteriors and soft interiors. Try this easy recipe today!

• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: Makes approximately 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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 vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Nori sheets (for wrapping)
• Optional: Furikake seasoning

Instructions

1. Rinse sushi rice under running water until clear. Cook with water in a rice cooker or pot.
2. Once cooked, mix in sesame seeds and sesame oil. Allow to cool slightly.
3. Wet your hands and shape about 1/2 cup rice into triangles.
4. In a bowl, combine soy sauce, vinegar, and sugar; stir until dissolved.
5. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat; grill onigiri until golden brown on all sides (about 2-3 minutes each side).
6. Brush grilled rice balls with the soy mixture for caramelization; sprinkle with furikake if desired and wrap with nori.

• Author: Emmeline
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Snack
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Japanese

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 rice ball (approximately 70g)
• Calories: 120
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 3g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 21g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Use short grain sushi rice for optimal stickiness. Soak the rice for at least 30 minutes before cooking for better texture. Experiment with different toppings like vegetables or cooked chicken for added flavor.