Yaki Onigiri

Yaki Onigiri are crispy, savory Japanese grilled rice balls brushed with a flavorful soy sauce glaze. With a golden-brown crust on the outside and a soft, fluffy interior, these delicious snacks are perfect as a side dish, light meal, or bento box addition.

5 from 1 vote

$5–$8 depending on ingredient quality

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 15

Total Time 30

Course Appetizer, Side Dish, Snack

Cuisine Japanese

Servings rice balls

Calories 180 kcal

Equipment

Small Rice Bowl: To shape the onigiri.
Rice Cooker or Pot with Lid: For cooking the sushi rice.
Nonstick Pan or Grill: To sear the onigiri until crispy.
Parchment Paper: To prevent sticking while shaping the rice balls.
Basting Brush (Optional): For evenly applying the soy sauce glaze.

Ingredients

2 cups sushi rice
2 cups cold water
2 tbsps soy sauce
1 tsp sesame oil
1 tsp sugar
1 tsp Dashi instant granules

Instructions

Put the rice into the pot with 2 cups of water and let stand for 10 minutes.
Bring to boil over med-high heat. Reduce to the lowest temperature and let simmer for 12 minutes.
Leave the lid on and let the rice steam without heat for 10 minutes.
Fluff the rice with a paddle.
Add seasonings; mix well.
Using a small rice bowl, put the rice into shape.
Put the lid back onto the pot and cool down to lukewarm.
Using a bowl of warm water to wet hands, begin to shape Onigiri.
Place the Onigiri on a parchment paper when shaped.

Notes

Customizations:

Crispier Texture: Grill longer for extra crunch.
Spicy Version: Add a bit of chili oil to the soy sauce mixture.
Cheesy Yaki Onigiri: Stuff the center with mozzarella or cheddar before shaping.

Storage Tips:

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 6 hours or refrigerate for up to 2 days.
Reheat by lightly grilling or microwaving before serving.

Serving Tips:

Serve with miso soup, pickled vegetables, or a dipping sauce.
Enjoy as a snack or side dish with Japanese barbecue or tempura.

Cooking Tips:

Wet hands with warm water before shaping to prevent rice from sticking.
Avoid overhandling the rice to maintain a soft texture.
Grill over medium heat to prevent burning while ensuring a crispy crust.

Nutrition

Calories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 39gProtein: 4gFat: 1gSaturated Fat: 0.1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.3gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.3gSodium: 255mgPotassium: 45mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gCalcium: 6mgIron: 1mg

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