19 Japanese Grilled Rice Balls Recipe Experience Culinary Bliss Now!
Published on: Mar 25, 2024
Grilled rice balls, or known as onigiri in Japanese, are a staple in Japanese cuisine. These triangular-shaped rice balls are a popular snack or meal that can be found in convenience stores, bento boxes, and even in the homes of many Japanese families. They are not only delicious, but also versatile as they can be filled with various ingredients, making them a great option for a quick and easy meal. In this article, we will be sharing a traditional Japanese grilled rice balls recipe that you can easily recreate at home.
Salmon and Black Sesame Onigiri (Japanese Rice Balls)
Main Ingredients: Smoked Salmon, Short Grain Rice, Black Sesame Seeds
Onigiri are a staple in Japanese cuisine, and for good reason. These simple rice balls are versatile, delicious and easy to make. One of our favorite variations is Salmon and Black Sesame Onigiri. The combination of tender salmon and nutty black sesame seeds creates a perfect balance of flavors. These onigiri are great for a quick snack or a fun addition to any meal.
Originating in Japan, onigiri are a popular convenience food that can be found in almost every convenience store and supermarket. They are essentially handheld rice balls that are often filled with a variety of savory ingredients. The name onigiri literally translates to "grip" or "hold" in Japanese, as they are meant to be eaten with your hands.
If you're craving a hearty and satisfying meal, look no further than Japanese Pork Katsu. This dish consists of pork cutlets that are breaded and fried until crispy. The result is a juicy and flavorful piece of meat that pairs perfectly with a side of onigiri. The crunchy exterior of the pork katsu contrasts well with the soft texture of the rice balls, creating a delicious combination.
4of 20
Japanese Rice Balls Onigiri
Main Ingredients: Cooked Rice, Umeboshi, Bonito Flakes, Soy Sauce, Mirin
While onigiri can be filled with a variety of ingredients, the most traditional and common filling is umeboshi, or pickled plum. The tart and salty flavor of the pickled plum pairs well with the neutral taste of the rice balls. You can also find onigiri filled with salmon, tuna, shrimp, or tempura to name a few.
5of 20
Yaki Onigiri (Japanese Rice Balls) | Vegan
Main Ingredients: Short Grain Rice, Water, Sushi Rice, Rice Vinegar
If you follow a vegan diet, you don't have to miss out on the deliciousness of onigiri. Vegan Yaki Onigiri is a grilled version of the traditional rice balls that is popular in Japan. The onigiri are brushed with a teriyaki sauce and grilled until slightly crispy on the outside. You can also add a variety of fillings, such as avocado, tofu, or vegetables to create a flavorful and satisfying vegan option.
6of 20
How to make onigiri (Japanese rice balls)
Main Ingredients: White Rice, Sushi Nori, Tuna Packed In Oil, Mayonnaise
If you want to make onigiri at home, it's actually quite simple. Start by cooking sushi rice according to package instructions. Once cooked, let the rice cool for a few minutes. Next, wet your hands with water to prevent the rice from sticking and grab a small handful of rice. Make an indentation in the center and add your desired filling. Wrap the rice around the filling and shape it into a triangle or ball. You can also use a rice ball mold for a more uniform shape. Sprinkle some black sesame seeds on top for an added crunch and flavor.
7of 20
Vegan Onigiri - Japanese Stuffed Rice Balls
Main Ingredients: Sushi Rice, Salt, Peanut Butter, Roasted Bell Pepper
Vegan Onigiri is also a great option for a packed lunch or picnic. They are easy to transport and can be eaten cold or at room temperature. You can make a variety of fillings and flavors to keep things interesting. For a quick and easy vegan lunch, pair your onigiri with some edamame and a side of seaweed salad.
8of 20
Japanese Farm-Style Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Bowl
Main Ingredients: Teriyaki, Portobellos, Chicken Thighs, Shitake
This grilled teriyaki chicken bowl is a hearty and flavorful meal that is perfect for a weeknight dinner. It consists of tender grilled chicken marinated in a homemade teriyaki sauce, served over a bed of white rice and topped with scallions and black sesame seeds. You can also add a side of onigiri for an extra dose of Japanese flavors.
9of 20
GRILLED JAPANESE FARM STYLE TERIYAKI BOWL
Main Ingredients: Chicken Thighs, Portobellos, Shitake Mushrooms, Soy
For a twist on the traditional teriyaki chicken bowl, try this grilled Japanese farm-style teriyaki bowl. This recipe combines grilled chicken, asparagus, and mushrooms with a flavorful teriyaki sauce. Serve it over a bed of brown rice and top it off with some pickled ginger and a side of onigiri. This dish is healthy, delicious, and full of Japanese flavors.
There are endless variations of onigiri that you can make, depending on your taste preferences. You can also get creative with the shape and size of your rice balls. Some people like to make larger onigiri and stuff them with multiple fillings, while others prefer smaller, bite-sized rice balls. You can also experiment with different types of rice, such as brown rice or mix grains, for a healthier option.
11of 20
Salmon Onigiri (Japanese Rice Balls)
Main Ingredients: Salmon, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Sushi Rice, Sesame
This salmon onigiri recipe is a must-try for seafood lovers. The rice balls are filled with salmon flakes and furikake, a Japanese seasoning made with seaweed and other ingredients. The result is a delicious and savory onigiri that is perfect for a snack or a light meal. You can also add a side of miso soup for a more filling and traditional Japanese meal.
While onigiri are a popular snack or side dish, they can also be enjoyed as a main course. This recipe for chicken teriyaki onigiri combines the flavors of teriyaki chicken and rice balls into one delicious and satisfying meal. The onigiri are filled with shredded chicken and teriyaki sauce, and can be served with a side of steamed vegetables for a complete and healthy dinner.
13of 20
How To Make Onigiri (Japanese rice balls)
Main Ingredients: Short Grain Rice, Water, Nori, Veggie, Seasoning
Making onigiri is a fun and easy activity that you can do with friends or family. You can also customize your rice balls with different shapes and fillings to make them more appealing and enjoyable. Whether you are a fan of traditional Japanese flavors or want to try something new, onigiri is a versatile and delicious dish that everyone can enjoy.
In Japan, onigiri are often eaten as a snack or a quick meal on the go. They are also a popular item for picnics and bento boxes. In recent years, onigiri has gained popularity in the western world as well, and can now be found in many Japanese restaurants and Asian grocery stores. Whether you are a fan of Japanese cuisine or just looking for a tasty and convenient snack, onigiri is a must-try dish.
15of 20
Japanese Crispy Fried Rice Balls with Tuna & Orange...
Main Ingredients: Sushi Rice, Spring Onions, Fresh Cilantro, Ginger
This recipe for Japanese crispy fried rice balls is a unique and delicious twist on traditional onigiri. The rice balls are filled with a combination of tuna, orange, and mayonnaise, creating a flavorful and satisfying bite. The onigiri are then coated in panko breadcrumbs and fried until crispy and golden brown. Serve them with a side of soy sauce or your favorite dipping sauce for a delicious snack or appetizer.
16of 20
Hibachi-Style Japanese Fried Rice
Main Ingredients: Soy Sauce, Apple Cider Vinegar, Maple Syrup, Liquid
Hibachi-style Japanese fried rice is a popular dish that can be found in many Japanese restaurants. This version is easy to make at home and is a great way to use up leftover rice. The dish consists of rice stir-fried with vegetables, chicken, and eggs, and flavored with soy sauce and sesame oil. Serve it with a side of onigiri for a complete and satisfying Japanese meal.
Main Ingredients: Sticky Rice, Water, Salt, Brown Rice Vinegar, Peanut
This vegan parmesan crusted peanut butter onigiri is a unique and flavorful take on traditional rice balls. The onigiri are filled with a combination of peanut butter and soy sauce, and coated in a mixture of parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs before being grilled until crispy and golden brown. This dish is a tasty and satisfying option for those following a vegan diet.
18of 20
Omusubi (Japanese rice balls) with tuna, salted...
Main Ingredients: Japanese Rice, Canned Tuna, Kewpie Mayonnaise, Seaweed
Omusubi, also known as rice balls or onigiri, are a popular snack or light meal in Japan. This recipe adds a twist to the traditional onigiri by filling it with a combination of tuna, pickled plum, and shiso leaves. The result is a flavorful and colorful rice ball that is perfect for a quick and easy meal or snack.
19of 20
Yaki Onigiri (Grilled Rice Balls)
Main Ingredients: Short Grain Rice, Salt, Soy Sauce, Mirin, Ground Black
Yaki Onigiri is a popular variation of rice balls in Japan. The onigiri are brushed with a soy sauce and mirin mixture before being grilled until slightly crispy on the outside. The combination of the salty and sweet flavors of the soy sauce and mirin pairs well with the neutral taste of the rice balls. Serve them as a snack or a side dish for a delicious and easy meal.
20of 20
Chicken Teriyaki
Main Ingredients: Sake, Mirin, Soy Sauce, Light Brown Sugar, Fresh
Last but not least, we can't forget about chicken teriyaki, a classic Japanese dish that is loved all around the world. This dish consists of grilled chicken coated in a homemade teriyaki sauce and served over a bed of white rice. You can also add a side of onigiri for an extra dose of Japanese flavors. This dish is simple, delicious, and perfect for any day of the week.
Ingredients You Will Need
Rice
The most important ingredient for making Japanese grilled rice balls is, of course, rice. Short-grain Japanese rice is the best choice for this recipe, as it is stickier and easier to mold into the desired shape. Rinse the rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch and cook according to package instructions.
Fillings
There are endless options when it comes to fillings for your grilled rice balls. Some popular choices include salmon, tuna, pickled plum, and seaweed . You can also use leftovers such as grilled chicken or vegetables as fillings for a more budget-friendly option.
Salt
Salt is an essential ingredient in this recipe as it adds flavor to the rice and helps to keep the rice balls together. Japanese sea salt is recommended for a more authentic taste, but any type of salt will work.
Grilling Sauce
The key to achieving that delicious grilled flavor is the sauce that is brushed on the rice balls before grilling. The most common sauce used is teriyaki sauce , which is a sweet and savory sauce made from soy sauce, mirin, and sugar. You can also use soy sauce or miso paste as a grilling sauce.
Instructions
1. Prepare the rice
Cook the rice according to package instructions and let it cool slightly before shaping.
2. Season the rice
In a small bowl, mix together the salt and grilling sauce of your choice. Add the sauce mixture to the cooked rice and gently mix until well combined.
3. Shape the rice balls
Wet your hands with water to prevent the rice from sticking and take a handful of rice to form a triangular shape. Make an indent in the middle of the triangle and add your desired filling. Cover the filling with more rice and shape it into a ball.
4. Grill the rice balls
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium heat. Place the rice balls on the grill and brush the remaining grilling sauce on both sides. Grill for 2-3 minutes on each side or until the rice balls are lightly charred.
5. Enjoy!
Serve the grilled rice balls hot and enjoy as a snack or meal. You can also wrap them in nori sheets for an extra crunch and flavor.
Now that you have learned the traditional Japanese grilled rice balls recipe , you can easily make them at home and impress your friends and family with this tasty and versatile dish. Give it a try and let us know how it turned out!
Salmon and Black Sesame Onigiri (Japanese Rice Balls)