19 Rice Balls Recipe Pakistani Try These Culinary Delights!
Published on: Mar 8, 2024
Rice balls, also known as arancini, are a popular dish in Pakistani cuisine. This simple yet delicious recipe is perfect for anyone looking to add some variety to their meal. These bite-sized balls are filled with flavorful rice and can be served as a snack or a side dish. In this article, we will take a closer look at how to make rice balls at home and share some tips and tricks to make them perfect every time. So, let's get started!
Main Ingredients: Cooked Rice, Umeboshi, Bonito Flakes, Soy Sauce, Mirin
Onigiri, also known as Japanese rice balls, are a popular snack or side dish in Japan. They are made by shaping cooked rice into small, bite-sized balls and often filled with various ingredients, such as pickled plums, salmon, or tuna. These rice balls are not only delicious but also fun to make at home. Here are 20 different ways to enjoy onigiri with a twist of chicken – perfect for those who love both Japanese and chicken cuisine.
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Rice Balls
Main Ingredients: Mushrooms, Carrot, Garlic, Ginger, Chicken Stock
Plain rice balls are a classic and simple way to enjoy onigiri. They can be made by shaping cooked Japanese sushi rice into small balls, lightly seasoned with salt, and wrapped in nori seaweed. For a chicken twist, you can add some shredded chicken to the rice before shaping it into balls. Grilled chicken or teriyaki chicken would be great options for this.
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Chicken Rice Balls
Main Ingredients: Cooked Chicken, Rice, Chicken Broth, Milk, Vegetable
For a more flavorful option, try making chicken rice balls. This can be done by mixing cooked Japanese sushi rice with chicken broth and shredded chicken before shaping it into balls. You can also add some soy sauce or sesame oil to the rice mixture for extra flavor. These rice balls are perfect for a quick and easy snack or lunch option.
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Cheesy Rice Balls (Arancini)
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Unsalted Butter, Onion, Ham, Medium Grain
Arancini, also known as Italian rice balls, are a popular appetizer in Italy. They are made by mixing cooked risotto with cheese, shaping it into balls, and then deep-frying them. For a chicken twist, you can add some shredded chicken to the risotto mixture before shaping it into balls. These cheesy rice balls are sure to be a hit at any party or gathering.
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Baked Asian Chicken Rice Balls
Main Ingredients: Canola Oil, Minced Garlic, Diced Yellow Onion, Baby
If you prefer a healthier option, try making baked Asian chicken rice balls. These are made by mixing cooked Japanese sushi rice with soy sauce, sesame oil, and shredded chicken, shaping it into balls, and then baking them in the oven until crispy. These rice balls are packed with flavor and perfect for a quick and easy Asian-inspired snack or appetizer.
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Arancini (Italian Rice Balls)
Main Ingredients: Rice, Shredded Mozzarella Cheese, Ham, Pepperoni
Another way to enjoy Italian rice balls with a chicken twist is by making arancini with a chicken parmesan filling. This involves mixing cooked risotto with chicken, marinara sauce, and parmesan cheese, shaping it into balls, and then deep-frying or baking them. These indulgent rice balls are perfect for a special occasion or when you want to treat yourself.
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Deep-Fried Rice Balls
Main Ingredients: Rice, Egg, Breadcrumbs, Frying Oil
If you love deep-fried foods, then these deep-fried rice balls are a must-try. They can be made by mixing cooked Japanese sushi rice with poultry seasoning and flour, shaping it into balls, and then deep-frying them until golden and crispy. These rice balls are a delicious and crunchy snack or appetizer option.
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Arancini (Rice Balls) with Marinara Sauce
Main Ingredients: White Rice, Parmesan, Eggs, Fresh Mozzarella
If you prefer a vegetarian option, try making arancini with a marinara sauce filling. This involves mixing cooked risotto with mozzarella cheese, shaping it into balls, and then deep-frying or baking them. Serve them with a side of marinara sauce for dipping and you have a tasty and satisfying meal.
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Arancini (Deep Fried Rice Balls)
Main Ingredients: Water, Rice, Saffron, Parmesan, Butter, Eggs, Salt
If you want to add some crunch to your arancini, try making them with a panko breadcrumb coating. This involves mixing cooked risotto with mozzarella cheese, shaping it into balls, coating them in panko breadcrumbs, and then deep-frying them until crispy. These rice balls are perfect for a party or gathering and can be easily customized with different fillings.
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Cheesy Rice Balls
Main Ingredients: White Rice, Grated Parmesan Cheese, Eggs, String
For a simple and delicious option, try making cheesy rice balls. These can be made by mixing cooked Japanese sushi rice with cheese, shaping it into balls, and then baking them in the oven until the cheese is melted and gooey. You can use any type of cheese you like, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or feta. These rice balls are perfect for a quick and easy snack or side dish.
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Baked Rice Balls
Main Ingredients: Cooked White Rice, Freshly Chopped Parsley, Grated
If you want a healthier option, try making baked rice balls. These can be made by mixing cooked Japanese sushi rice with shredded chicken, chopped vegetables, and seasonings, shaping it into balls, and then baking them in the oven until crispy. These rice balls are packed with flavor and make a great lunch or dinner option.
Main Ingredients: Butter, Zucchini, Rice, Cream Cheese, Sun Dried Tomato
For a unique and flavorful option, try making baked pesto zucchini arancini. These can be made by mixing cooked risotto with pesto, zucchini, and parmesan cheese, shaping it into balls, and then baking them in the oven. These rice balls are packed with Italian flavors and make a great appetizer or side dish.
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Jumeok Bap - Korean Rice Balls (3 Ways)
Main Ingredients: Tuna, Mayonnaise, Salt, Black Pepper, Chili Pepper
Jumeok bap, also known as Korean rice balls, are similar to Japanese rice balls but often filled with different ingredients. There are many variations of jumeok bap, but three popular options are tuna, kimchi, and bulgogi. These rice balls are easy to make and packed with Korean flavors. They are also great for a quick and easy lunch or snack.
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Steamed Rice Balls In Pumpkin, Coconut Gravy
Main Ingredients: Rice Flour, Rice, Gravy, Cooked Pumpkin, Milk, Jaggery
If you want to try something different, try making steamed rice balls in pumpkin with a coconut curry gravy. This involves shaping cooked Japanese sushi rice into balls, steaming them in a pumpkin, and serving them with a coconut curry gravy. The combination of sweet pumpkin and spicy curry makes a delicious and unique dish that is sure to impress.
For a fusion of Indian and Japanese cuisine, try making Indian butter chicken rice balls. This involves mixing cooked Japanese sushi rice with butter chicken and shaping it into balls. These rice balls are a great way to use up any leftover butter chicken and make a tasty and unique snack or appetizer.
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Chicken Teriyaki
Main Ingredients: Sake, Mirin, Soy Sauce, Light Brown Sugar, Fresh
If you love teriyaki chicken, then you will love these chicken teriyaki rice balls. These can be made by mixing cooked Japanese sushi rice with teriyaki sauce and shredded chicken, shaping it into balls, and then baking or grilling them until crispy. These rice balls are packed with flavor and make a great addition to any meal.
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Fried Rice
Main Ingredients: Butter, Eggs, Medium Carrots, White Onion, Frozen Peas
If you have some leftover rice, try making fried rice balls. These can be made by mixing cooked rice with vegetables, egg, and chicken, shaping it into balls, and then frying them in a pan until crispy. You can also add some soy sauce or oyster sauce for extra flavor. These rice balls are a delicious and easy way to use up leftovers and make a great snack or side dish.
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How to make onigiri (Japanese rice balls)
Main Ingredients: White Rice, Sushi Nori, Tuna Packed In Oil, Mayonnaise
If you want to learn how to make traditional Japanese rice balls, try making onigiri. This involves shaping cooked Japanese sushi rice into balls, adding a filling of your choice, and then shaping it into a triangle with your hands. You can also wrap the rice balls in nori seaweed for a more authentic touch. Onigiri is a great option for a quick and easy snack or lunch.
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Stuffed Peppers
Main Ingredients: Bell Peppers, Onion, Garlic Cloves, Rice, Ground Beef
If you want to try something different, try making stuffed pepper rice balls. These can be made by mixing cooked Japanese sushi rice with ground chicken, vegetables, and seasonings, shaping it into balls, and then stuffing them into halved bell peppers. These rice balls are a unique and tasty way to enjoy both chicken and vegetables in one dish.
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Thai Chicken Coconut Curry
Main Ingredients: Coconut Oil, Vidalia Onion, Boneless Skinless Chicken
For a flavorful and spicy option, try making Thai chicken coconut curry rice balls. These can be made by mixing cooked Japanese sushi rice with red curry paste and shredded chicken, shaping it into balls, and then frying or baking them. Serve them with a side of coconut milk for dipping and you have a delicious and unique snack or appetizer.
The Perfect Rice for Rice Balls
When it comes to making rice balls, the type of rice you use is crucial. Basmati rice is the preferred choice for this recipe as it has a long grain and a delicate flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients. It is important to rinse the rice before cooking to remove any excess starch. This will prevent the rice balls from becoming too sticky.
Adding Flavor to the Rice
The key to delicious rice balls is in the flavor of the rice. To give the rice a burst of flavor, add some spices and herbs to the cooking water. You can use a combination of cumin, coriander, and red chili powder for a traditional Pakistani taste. You can also add some fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added freshness.
Creating the Perfect Filling
While rice is the star of this dish, the filling adds an extra layer of flavor and texture. Ground beef or chicken is a popular filling choice for rice balls, but you can also use vegetables like peas, carrots, and onions. Make sure to cook the filling with a variety of spices and seasonings to enhance the overall taste.
Assembling and Cooking the Rice Balls
Once the rice and filling are ready, it's time to assemble the rice balls. Take a small portion of rice and flatten it in your palm. Place a spoonful of filling in the center and wrap the rice around it, forming a ball. Repeat this process until all the rice and filling are used up. To make the rice balls extra crispy, you can dip them in egg wash and then coat them in bread crumbs before frying them until golden brown.
Serving and Enjoying Rice Balls
Rice balls can be enjoyed hot or at room temperature. They are an excellent addition to any meal and can also be served as a snack with a side of mint chutney or tamarind sauce. These delicious bites are perfect for parties and gatherings and are sure to be a hit with everyone.
In conclusion, rice balls are a flavorful and versatile dish that can be easily prepared at home. With the right ingredients and cooking techniques, you can make these delicious bites perfect every time. So, why not give this recipe a try and add some Pakistani flair to your meals?