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–+ servings
Japanese Grilled Rice Balls

Delicious Japanese Grilled Rice Balls: A Fun Snack Adventure

Japanese Grilled Rice Balls are a delightful snack evoking nostalgic family picnics, with customizable fillings and a crispy exterior.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4 rice balls
Course: Snacks
Cuisine: Japanese
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Rice
  • 1 cup short-grain rice high-quality sushi rice recommended
  • 1.5 cups water adjust based on rice type
For the Seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce use tamari for gluten-free
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil can substitute with olive oil
For the Fillings (optional)
  • 1 cup shredded chicken marinate for extra flavor
  • 1 can tuna consider adding mayo
  • 3 tablespoons pickled plum (Umeboshi) unique tangy flavor
  • 1 fillet marinated salmon gourmet option
To Garnish
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds for added crunch
  • to taste tablespoon soy sauce drizzle before serving

Equipment

  • medium saucepan
  • Grill
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Rinse the short-grain rice under cold water until the water runs clear, about 2-3 minutes. Soak in 1½ cups of water for 30 minutes.
  2. Transfer soaked rice and water to a medium saucepan. Cover, bring to boil, reduce to low, and simmer for approximately 20 minutes, then let it rest for 10 minutes.
  3. Fluff warm rice, stir in soy sauce and toasted sesame oil evenly.
  4. Prepare desired fillings by finely chopping them for easy incorporation.
  5. Wet hands, take half a cup of seasoned rice, flatten it, and place a teaspoon of filling in center. Fold rice over to form a ball or triangle.
  6. Preheat grill to medium heat (350°F/175°C). Lightly oil grates and grill rice balls for about 3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
  7. Remove grilled rice balls, allow to cool for a minute, then serve warm with soy sauce or sesame seeds.

Nutrition

Serving: 1rice ballCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 4gFat: 1gSodium: 240mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 1gCalcium: 1mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Allow the rice to cool before shaping to prevent sticking. Always wet hands for easy shaping. Grill at medium heat for best results.

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