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Yaki Onigiri

Yaki Onigiri

Chef B
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
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Appetizer, Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine Japanese
Servings 8 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
Keyword Crispy Onigiri, Easy Onigiri, how to make yaki onigiri, Japanese Grilled Rice Balls, yaki onigiri, Yaki Onigiri Recipe
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