20 Japanese Monkey Balls Recipe Delight In These Amazing Recipes!
Published on: Mar 25, 2024
Aside from being a popular snack in Japan, Japanese monkey balls have gained recognition and popularity all around the world. This savory dish is a delicious combination of meat, vegetables, and rice, and is perfect for those looking for a quick and easy meal. While the name may seem strange, the recipe for Japanese monkey balls is anything but. In fact, it is a well-loved and traditional dish that has been enjoyed by families for generations. In this article, we will dive into the history and ingredients of this delectable dish, as well as provide a step-by-step guide on how you can recreate it in your own kitchen.
Salmon and Black Sesame Onigiri (Japanese Rice Balls)
Main Ingredients: Smoked Salmon, Short Grain Rice, Black Sesame Seeds
If you’re a fan of Japanese cuisine, you’ll love this twist on beer can chicken. The combination of tender salmon and nutty black sesame seeds makes for a flavorful and unique dish. Plus, the use of onigiri (Japanese rice balls) instead of a traditional beer can adds an extra layer of authenticity to this recipe.
Onigiri, or Japanese rice balls, are a staple in Japanese cuisine. These delicious little parcels of rice are usually filled with various ingredients and make for a perfect accompaniment to any meal. But have you ever thought of using them as a base for your beer can chicken? The result is a tasty and visually appealing dish that will impress your guests.
Pork katsu is a popular Japanese dish that consists of breaded and fried pork cutlets. By using this technique on your beer can chicken, you’ll end up with a crispy and flavorful outer layer that adds a delicious crunch to every bite. Serve it with a side of Japanese curry for a truly authentic experience.
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Japanese Rice Balls Onigiri
Main Ingredients: Cooked Rice, Umeboshi, Bonito Flakes, Soy Sauce, Mirin
Onigiri, or Japanese rice balls, are a versatile dish that can be filled with almost anything. For a beer can chicken recipe with a twist, try filling your onigiri with shredded chicken, soy sauce, and ginger. The result is a delicious and portable meal that’s perfect for picnics or packed lunches.
Fluffy and savory, Japanese style pancakes are a must-try for any food lover. These pancakes are made with a mixture of flour, eggs, milk, and mirin, a type of sweet Japanese cooking wine. By adding a touch of this sweet and tangy ingredient to your beer can chicken, you’ll end up with a unique and delicious flavor profile.
Japanese cheesecake, also known as ‘cotton’ cheesecake, is a light and fluffy dessert that’s popular in Japan. By incorporating this delicate and airy texture into your beer can chicken, you’ll end up with a tender and moist dish that’s perfect for a special occasion.
Okonomiyaki is a savory Japanese pancake that’s usually filled with various ingredients such as cabbage, pork, and shrimp. By combining this delicious pancake with your beer can chicken, you’ll end up with a dish that’s packed with flavor and texture. And the best part? You can customize it with your favorite toppings.
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How to make onigiri (Japanese rice balls)
Main Ingredients: White Rice, Sushi Nori, Tuna Packed In Oil, Mayonnaise
Onigiri, or Japanese rice balls, are a delicious and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. But if you’ve never made them before, the process can seem intimidating. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make onigiri and impress your friends and family with your newfound skills.
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Vegan Onigiri - Japanese Stuffed Rice Balls
Main Ingredients: Sushi Rice, Salt, Peanut Butter, Roasted Bell Pepper
If you’re following a plant-based diet, you don’t have to miss out on the deliciousness of onigiri. This vegan version of the Japanese rice balls is filled with a flavorful mixture of tofu, shiitake mushrooms, and soy sauce. Serve it alongside your beer can chicken for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
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Japanese Cucumber Salad (Sunomono)
Main Ingredients: English Cucumber, Salt, Sugar, Soy Sauce, Rice Vinegar
Sunomono, or Japanese cucumber salad, is a refreshing and light side dish that pairs perfectly with any meal. By serving it alongside your beer can chicken, you’ll add a pop of color and flavor to your plate. The combination of tangy rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sesame oil makes for a delicious dressing for your cucumber slices.
Ramen, a popular Japanese noodle dish, is a must-try for any food lover. By incorporating the flavors of ramen into your beer can chicken, you’ll end up with a dish that’s packed with umami and depth of flavor. Serve it with a side of soy sauce eggs and crispy fried garlic for a truly authentic experience.
Udon noodle soup is a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any time of the year. By using udon noodles in your beer can chicken recipe, you’ll add a unique texture and flavor to the dish. Serve it in a flavorful broth with green onions and tofu for a hearty and delicious meal.
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Japanese Gyoza Dumplings
Main Ingredients: Napa Cabbage, Ground Pork, Garlic, Fresh Ginger
Gyoza dumplings are a popular Japanese appetizer that’s usually filled with a delicious mixture of pork, garlic, and ginger. By incorporating these flavors into your beer can chicken, you’ll end up with a dish that’s packed with savory and aromatic ingredients. Serve it with a side of soy sauce for dipping.
Eggplant, or aubergine, is a versatile ingredient that’s used in many different cuisines. In Japanese cuisine, eggplant is often grilled and served with a flavorful miso sauce. By adding this sauce to your beer can chicken, you’ll end up with a dish that’s packed with flavor and perfect for a summer barbecue.
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Japanese Soba Noodles With Peanut Sauce
Main Ingredients: Soba Noodles, Unsalted Roasted Peanuts, Sesame Oil
Soba noodles are a type of Japanese noodle made from buckwheat flour. This dish combines the nutty and earthy flavor of soba noodles with a creamy and flavorful peanut sauce. Serve it alongside your beer can chicken for a well-rounded and delicious meal.
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Yakitori (Japanese Grilled Chicken)
Main Ingredients: Skinless Chicken Thighs, Soy Sauce, Pure Maple Syrup
Yakitori, or Japanese grilled chicken, is a staple in Japanese street food. By incorporating this delicious and savory chicken dish into your beer can chicken recipe, you’ll end up with a dish that’s packed with flavor and perfect for a summer barbecue. Serve it with a side of grilled vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Zucchini, or courgette, is a versatile ingredient that can be used in many different dishes. In Japanese cuisine, zucchini is often sliced and grilled with a touch of soy sauce for a simple yet delicious side dish. Add this to your beer can chicken recipe for a light and flavorful addition to your meal.
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Japanese Beef Steak
Main Ingredients: Garlic, Sugar, Soy Sauce, Sake, Water, New York Steaks
Beef steak is a classic dish that’s enjoyed all around the world. For a Japanese twist, marinate your steak in a mixture of soy sauce, mirin, and sake before grilling it alongside your beer can chicken. The result? A tender and flavorful steak that’s perfect for a special occasion.
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Katsudon Japanese Pork Cutlet and Egg Rice Bowl
Main Ingredients: Boneless Pork Chops, Salt, Pepper, Flour, Egg, Panko
Katsudon is a popular Japanese dish that consists of a breaded and fried pork cutlet, onions, and egg served over a bed of rice. By incorporating this dish into your beer can chicken recipe, you’ll end up with a hearty and delicious meal that’s perfect for a cozy night in.
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Japanese Sweet Potato Okonomiyaki
Main Ingredients: Plain Flour, Baking Powder, Vegetable Stock, Eggs, Soy
Okonomiyaki, a savory Japanese pancake, is a delicious and versatile dish that can be customized with your favorite ingredients. For a unique twist, use grated sweet potato in your okonomiyaki and serve it alongside your beer can chicken. The result is a sweet and savory combination that’s sure to please your taste buds.
The History of Japanese Monkey Balls
Where Did the Name Come From?
The origin of the name Japanese monkey balls is often debated, with some claiming that it comes from the shape of the dish resembling a monkey's testicles. However, the more likely explanation is that it is a mistranslation of the Japanese word "saru" which means monkey, and "maki" which means roll. This can be traced back to the Edo period in Japan, where the dish was originally called "saru maki" and was a popular snack among the working class.
A Traditional Dish Passed Down Through Generations
While the exact origins of Japanese monkey balls may be unknown, one thing is for sure - it is a traditional dish that has been loved and passed down through generations in Japan. It is often served during festivals and special occasions, and has become a staple dish in many Japanese households. Each family may have their own unique twist on the recipe, making it a versatile and customizable dish.
The Ingredients
A Healthy and Flavorful Combination
The key to a delicious batch of Japanese monkey balls is the quality and balance of ingredients. The dish typically includes a mix of ground meat, such as pork or chicken, along with finely chopped vegetables, such as carrots, onions, and mushrooms. The vegetables not only add flavor and texture, but also provide a healthy boost of nutrients. The balls are then coated in a layer of cooked rice and rolled in breadcrumbs before being deep-fried to a golden crisp.
Customize to Your Taste
One of the best things about Japanese monkey balls is that you can customize it to your own taste. If you prefer a spicier kick, add some chili flakes to the meat mixture. For a healthier alternative, you can also bake the balls instead of frying them. The possibilities are endless, making it a fun and creative dish to experiment with.
In conclusion, Japanese monkey balls may have a quirky name, but it is a beloved and traditional dish that has stood the test of time. With its unique combination of ingredients and customizable nature, it is no wonder that it has gained popularity all around the world. So why not try making your own batch of Japanese monkey balls at home and experience the deliciousness for yourself?
Salmon and Black Sesame Onigiri (Japanese Rice Balls)
