Yaki Onigiri (Grilled Rice Balls)

Yaki Onigiri (Grilled Rice Balls) are a delightful Japanese treat that combines crispy, charred exteriors with soft, warm interiors. This makes them an ideal snack for any occasion, whether it’s a casual lunch, a picnic, or a cozy dinner at home. The unique flavor profile of these grilled rice balls, enhanced by a savory soy marinade, ensures they will be a hit with family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Flavorful: The soy sauce and mirin marinade brings out the umami flavors, making every bite irresistible.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, even novice cooks can whip these up in no time.
• Customizable: Add your favorite fillings or toppings to create your unique twist on yaki onigiri.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether as an appetizer, snack, or part of a bento box, these rice balls fit perfectly into any meal plan.
• Fun to Eat: Their unique shape and crispy texture make yaki onigiri not just food but also an enjoyable experience.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Yaki Onigiri (Grilled Rice Balls), you’ll need some basic tools that will make your cooking process easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Rice cooker or pot
• Mixing bowl
• Skillet
• Spatula
• Onigiri mold (optional)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Rice cooker: Ensures perfectly cooked sushi rice every time without the risk of burning.
• Skillet: Ideal for grilling the rice balls evenly while achieving that desired crispy texture.
• Onigiri mold: Makes shaping the rice balls quick and easy if you prefer consistent sizes.

Ingredients

Yaki onigiri (焼きおにぎり), or Japanese grilled rice balls have crispy, charred outer layers and soft and steamy insides which makes them the most mouthwatering snack to make at home! These grilled onigiri are seasoned with a soy marinade which makes this yaki onigiri recipe a delicious balance of flavors, textures, and techniques.

For the Rice Balls

• 1 1/2 cup uncooked sushi rice (short grain or medium grain)
• 2 cups water
• 2 teaspoons toasted black sesame seeds
• 2 teaspoons sesame oil

For the Marinade

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

For Assembly

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

this recipe

How to Make Yaki Onigiri (Grilled Rice Balls)

Step 1: Cook the Rice

Wash the uncooked rice under running water until it runs clear. Combine the rice and water in your rice cooker or pot. Cook according to your device’s instructions until done.

Step 2: Season the Rice

Once cooked, season the rice with toasted sesame seeds and sesame oil. Mix gently until combined. Allow it to cool until it’s manageable by hand.

Step 3: Mold the Rice

Wet your hands with water. Take about 1/2 cup of seasoned rice in your palms. Firmly press it into a triangle shape using both hands. If using an onigiri mold, fill it with rice and press firmly to form a shape.

Step 4: Make Soy Mixture

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

Step 5: Grill

Heat a lightly oiled skillet over medium heat. Grill each side of the onigiri until crispy and golden brown—about 2-3 minutes per side. Avoid flipping too often to keep them intact.

Step 6: Season with Soy Sauce Mixture

Reduce heat to low. Brush one side with soy sauce mixture before flipping to caramelize for about 10-15 seconds; do this quickly as it can burn easily. Repeat for all sides. Sprinkle furikake while warm, wrap with nori strips if desired, then enjoy!

How to Serve Yaki Onigiri (Grilled Rice Balls)

Yaki onigiri are not just delicious on their own; they can be paired with a variety of accompaniments that enhance their flavor and texture. Whether you’re enjoying them as a snack or part of a meal, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

With Dipping Sauces

• Soy Sauce: A classic choice that complements the savory flavor of the grilled rice balls.
• Spicy Mayo: A creamy and spicy dip that adds richness and heat to yaki onigiri.
• Teriyaki Sauce: Sweet and tangy, this sauce pairs well with the charred exterior of grilled rice balls.

With Vegetables

• Pickled Radish: These provide a crunchy contrast and refreshing acidity.
• Steamed Broccoli: A healthy side that balances the meal with its green goodness.
• Cucumber Salad: Light and refreshing, it adds a nice crunch alongside yaki onigiri.

With Proteins

• Grilled Chicken: Juicy chicken enhances your meal while adding protein.
• Tofu Skewers: For a vegetarian option, marinated grilled tofu is an excellent pairing.

How to Perfect Yaki Onigiri (Grilled Rice Balls)

Creating the perfect yaki onigiri requires attention to detail in both preparation and cooking. Here are some tips to help you achieve delicious results.

• Boldly season your rice: Adding toasted sesame seeds and sesame oil will enhance flavor and aroma.
• Use the right rice: Sushi rice is essential for achieving the ideal sticky texture for molding.
• Wet your hands: This prevents the rice from sticking while shaping into triangles, making it easier to handle.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Grilling too many at once can lead to uneven cooking; work in batches if needed.
• Keep an eye on grilling time: Overcooking can lead to burnt onigiri, so monitor closely for that golden-brown color.
• Serve immediately: For the best experience, enjoy yaki onigiri right after grilling while they’re warm and crispy.

Best Side Dishes for Yaki Onigiri (Grilled Rice Balls)

Pairing yaki onigiri with side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Below are some delightful options that complement these grilled rice balls beautifully.

1. Miso Soup: A warm, comforting broth that provides umami flavors alongside yaki onigiri.
2. Edamame: Lightly salted edamame serves as a healthy snack option packed with protein.
3. Seaweed Salad: This fresh salad adds oceanic flavors and vibrant colors to your plate.
4. Tempura Vegetables: Crispy tempura offers a crunchy texture that contrasts well with soft rice balls.
5. Japanese Pickles (Tsukemono): These add tanginess and crunch, balancing the richness of grilled rice balls.
6. Sautéed Bok Choy: A quick sauté brings out natural sweetness in bok choy, making it a great side dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Yaki Onigiri (Grilled Rice Balls) can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes will enhance your results.

• Inadequate rinsing of rice: Not washing the rice can lead to overly sticky onigiri. Always rinse until the water runs clear to achieve the right texture.
• Skipping the cooling step: If you mold the rice while it’s hot, it may fall apart. Allow the rice to cool enough so you can handle it without burns.
• Using too much soy sauce: Over-saturating with soy sauce can make your onigiri overly salty. Brush lightly and taste before adding more.
• Not grilling long enough: Under-grilling will result in a soft exterior instead of the desired crispy texture. Ensure each side is grilled for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
• Forgetting about seasoning: Neglecting to season the rice can lead to bland flavors. Mix sesame seeds and oil thoroughly before molding for a tasty bite.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Yaki Onigiri in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Yaki Onigiri (Grilled Rice Balls)

• Place cooked and cooled onigiri in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 1 month.

Reheating Yaki Onigiri (Grilled Rice Balls)

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power for 30-second intervals until warm, but this may soften the texture.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a little oil and re-grill for about 2-3 minutes per side until crispy again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different types of rice for Yaki Onigiri?

Yes, while sushi rice is preferred for its stickiness, you can experiment with other short or medium-grain varieties.

What is the best way to shape Yaki Onigiri?

Wet your hands before shaping to prevent sticking, and press firmly but gently to maintain integrity while forming triangles.

How do I make my Yaki Onigiri more flavorful?

Consider adding ingredients like chopped green onions or cooked proteins into the rice mix before molding them for added flavor.

Can I grill Yaki Onigiri on an outdoor grill?

Absolutely! Just ensure they are well-oiled and monitor closely to avoid burning while achieving that nice charred flavor.

Final Thoughts

Yaki Onigiri (Grilled Rice Balls) offer a delightful combination of crunch and softness, making them perfect as snacks or appetizers. Their versatility allows you to customize them with various fillings or toppings based on your preference. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy these delicious bites at home!

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Yaki Onigiri (Grilled Rice Balls)

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• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Makes about 6 servings 1x

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Description

Yaki Onigiri, or Grilled Rice Balls, are an irresistible Japanese delight that beautifully merges crunchy exteriors with warm, fluffy interiors. Perfect for any occasion—whether as a snack, picnic treat, or part of a cozy meal—these rice balls are brushed with a savory soy marinade that elevates their flavor profile. Easy to prepare and customizable with your favorite fillings or toppings, Yaki Onigiri offers not only deliciousness but also a fun culinary experience. Serve them warm, paired with dips or sides, for an enjoyable addition to any dining table.

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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 mirin
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Nori sheets (optional)
• Furikake seasoning (optional)

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Instructions

1. Rinse and cook sushi rice in a rice cooker or pot according to instructions.
2. Once cooked, mix in sesame seeds and sesame oil; allow cooling.
3. Shape the cooled rice into triangles using wet hands or an onigiri mold.
4. Prepare the soy marinade by combining soy sauce, mirin, and sugar in a bowl.
5. Grill the rice balls in a lightly oiled skillet over medium heat until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Brush each side with the marinade for added flavor and caramelization.
7. Serve immediately while warm; optionally garnish with furikake and nori strips.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Snack
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Japanese

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 163
• Sugar: 0.9g
• Sodium: 420mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: For extra flavor, consider mixing in chopped green onions or proteins into the rice before shaping. Don't overcrowd the skillet while grilling; work in batches for even cooking.