Yaki Onigiri, or grilled rice balls, are a delightful treat that can make any dinner feel special. I remember the first time my son, Jake, tried them; he was hooked after just one bite! These tasty rice balls are a fantastic option for dinner, especially when you're looking for non-American dinner ideas. Plus, they're simple to make and packed with flavor!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love It
- They’re easy to prepare and require minimal ingredients.
- Perfect for using up leftover rice, making them a great food to make with rice.
- They can be customized with various fillings and toppings.
- They’re a healthy Asian recipe that the whole family will love.
Pure Comfort
Yaki Onigiri brings a sense of comfort that’s hard to beat. The crispy exterior and soft, warm rice inside create a satisfying bite that feels like a hug from the inside out. Whether it’s a rainy day or a family gathering, these grilled rice balls are sure to bring smiles and warmth to your table.
What You Need
- 2 cups cooked Japanese short-grain rice – Use sushi rice for the best texture.
- 1/2 tsp salt – Adjust to taste.
- 2 nori sheets – Substitute with lettuce leaves for a different wrap.
- 2 tbsp soy sauce – Use tamari for a gluten-free option.
- 1 tbsp sesame oil – Can use olive oil as a substitute.
- 1/2 cup optional fillings (like grilled chicken, tuna, or veggies) – Feel free to get creative!
Time to Cook
Prep: 15 minutes | Cook: 10 minutes | Total: 25 minutes | Difficulty: Easy | Make-Ahead: Yes, you can prepare the rice in advance.
Steps to Make It
- Start by cooking your rice according to package instructions. The rice should be sticky and hold together well, making it easier to shape.
- Once the rice is ready, let it cool slightly. This way, it’s easier to handle without burning your hands.
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked rice with salt. If you’re adding any fillings, now’s the time to fold them in gently.
- Wet your hands with a little water to prevent sticking, then take a handful of rice and shape it into a triangle or ball. Aim for about the size of a golf ball.
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add sesame oil. Once hot, carefully place the rice balls in the pan, giving them space to cook.
- Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy. The smell will be irresistible!
- Once done, remove the rice balls from the skillet and brush them lightly with soy sauce for added flavor.
- Serve warm, optionally wrapping them in nori sheets for a fun presentation.
Make It Perfect
- Make sure your rice is sticky enough to hold together; short-grain rice works best.
- Experiment with different fillings to keep things interesting.
- Don’t rush the cooking process; let them get nice and crispy for the best texture.
- Keep your hands wet while shaping the rice to prevent sticking.
- If grilling, use a grill basket to prevent the rice balls from falling through.
Mix It Up
- Try adding a bit of cheese for a gooey surprise inside.
- Incorporate herbs like green onions or shiso for a fresh twist.
- For a spicy kick, mix in some sriracha or chili flakes.
Perfect Partners
- Serve with miso soup for a complete meal.
- Pair with a fresh salad for a light dinner.
- Enjoy alongside pickled vegetables for a tangy contrast.
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FAQs
Can I store leftover Yaki Onigiri?
Yes, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze Yaki Onigiri?
Absolutely! Freeze them before cooking, and just thaw and grill when you’re ready.
What can I substitute for Japanese rice?
You can use any sticky rice, but short-grain rice is best for texture.
Can I make these without fillings?
Yes, they’re tasty on their own, but fillings add extra flavor.
Conclusion
Yaki Onigiri is a delightful addition to your dinner table, offering a taste of Japan that’s both simple and satisfying. These grilled rice balls make for a great non-American dinner idea that the whole family will enjoy. So, gather your ingredients and give this healthy Asian recipe a try! You’ll be glad you did.
Yaki Onigiri Easy Japanese Grilled Rice Balls
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook rice according to package instructions until sticky.
- Let rice cool slightly to handle safely.
- Mix cooked rice with salt and fold in any optional fillings gently.
- Wet hands and shape rice into golf ball–sized triangles or balls.
- Heat non-stick skillet over medium heat and add sesame oil.
- Cook rice balls 3-4 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
- Remove from skillet and brush with soy sauce.
- Serve warm, optionally wrapped in nori sheets.