Yaki Onigiri

Yaki Onigiri: A Delicious Twist on Grilled Rice Balls

Yaki Onigiri, or grilled rice balls, is a classic Japanese snack that’s simple yet packed with flavor. With a crispy exterior and a tender, flavorful inside, these rice balls are perfect for a light meal, a side dish, or even a snack on the go. This recipe offers two delectable flavors: a rich miso glaze and a savory soy sauce seasoning. Let’s dive into how you can make these delightful Yaki Onigiri at home!

Ingredients:

• Onigiri:
  • 2 cups uncooked short-grain rice
  • 2 cups water
• Miso Flavor:
  • 1 tbsp miso
  • 2 tsp mirin
  • 2 tsp sake
  • 2 tsp sugar
  • 1.5 tbsp butter
  • 1 tsp finely chopped chives (for garnish)
  • 1 tsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
• Soy Sauce Flavor:
  • 1.5 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1.5 tbsp everything bagel seasoning
  • 1.5 tbsp butter

Directions:

1. Cook the Rice:

• Begin by cooking the rice according to your rice cooker’s instructions or follow the package directions for stove-top cooking. Use short-grain rice for the best results, as it’s stickier and holds its shape well when forming the onigiri.

2. Prepare the Miso Paste:

• While the rice is cooking, prepare the miso paste. In a small bowl, mix together the miso, mirin, sake, and sugar until well combined. Set this aside; it will be used to glaze the onigiri later.

3. Shape the Onigiri:

• Once the rice is cooked, divide it into 6 equal portions. To shape the onigiri, take a piece of cling wrap and place a portion of rice in the center. Wrap the cling wrap around the rice and use your hands to shape it into a triangle. Repeat this process with the remaining portions.

4. Grill the Onigiri:

• Miso Flavor Onigiri:
  • Heat a cast iron skillet over medium heat and add the butter. Once the butter has melted, place the rice balls in the skillet and grill them for about 1 minute on each side, making sure they are well coated with butter.
  • Brush the miso paste over each side of the rice balls and continue grilling until each side is crispy and golden brown.
  • Serve immediately, garnished with chopped chives and sesame seeds for an extra burst of flavor.
• Soy Sauce Flavor Onigiri:
  • Heat a cast iron skillet over medium heat and coat it with vegetable oil. Place the rice balls in the skillet and grill them for about 1 minute on each side.
  • Brush soy sauce over each side of the rice balls each time you flip them. Turn the rice balls several times to ensure even coating and crispiness.
  • Once the onigiri are crispy and golden, turn off the heat and transfer them to a plate. Top each with 1/2 tablespoon of butter and garnish with everything bagel seasoning. Serve immediately.

Serving Suggestions:

Yaki Onigiri are best enjoyed fresh off the grill when they’re still warm and crispy. Pair them with a bowl of miso soup, a light salad, or enjoy them as a savory snack. They also make a great addition to a bento box!

Recipe Details:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 6 onigiri
• Calories: 250 kcal per serving

Yaki Onigiri offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors that’s sure to please. Whether you prefer the umami-rich miso flavor or the classic soy sauce seasoning, these grilled rice balls are a versatile and satisfying dish. Enjoy this Japanese favorite and feel free to experiment with different toppings and fillings to make it your own!

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