Description
Yaki Onigiri, or grilled rice balls, are a delightful Japanese snack that perfectly balance crispy exteriors with soft, fluffy interiors. These savory bites are seasoned with a flavorful soy marinade, making them an exciting treat for any occasion—whether enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or part of a meal. Easy to customize with various fillings and toppings, Yaki Onigiri offers endless possibilities to cater to your taste buds. Prepare these delicious rice balls at home and delight in their unique combination of textures and flavors!
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 alternative (like fruit juice or vinegar)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Nori sheets (for wrapping)
- Furikake seasoning (optional)
Instructions
- Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until it runs clear. Combine the rice and water in a rice cooker or pot and cook until done.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice with toasted sesame seeds and sesame oil. Allow it to cool until manageable.
- Wet your hands and mold about 1/2 cup of rice into triangle shapes or use an onigiri mold.
- Mix soy sauce, mirin alternative, and sugar in a small bowl until well combined.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and lightly coat with oil. Grill each onigiri for about 2-3 minutes per side until crispy.
- Brush one side with the soy mixture, flip to caramelize for about 10-15 seconds, then brush other sides before removing from the skillet. Optionally sprinkle with furikake and wrap with nori.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Snack/Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Japanese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg