Yaki Onigiri (Grilled Rice Balls)焼きおにぎり
Yaki onigiri (焼きおにぎり), or Japanese grilled rice balls have crispy, charred outer layers and soft and steamy insides which makes them the most mouthwatering snack to make at home! These grilled onigiri are seasoned with a soy marinade which makes this yaki onigiri recipe a delicious balance of flavors, textures, and techniques.
- Prep time
- 15 min
- Cook time
- 15 min
- Yield
- 6 servings
- Difficulty
- MEDIUM
Ingredients
Quantities are shown as originally provided.
- 1 1/2 cup uncooked sushi rice (short grain or medium grain)
- 2 cups water
- 2 teaspoon toasted black sesame seeds
- 2 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoon mirin
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Nori sheets (cut into 2 inch pieces)
- Furikake seasoning (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Cook the rice. Wash the uncooked rice under running water until the water runs clear. Combine the rice and water in a rice cooker or on the stovetop and cook until done.
- 2
Season the rice. Season the rice with toasted sesame seeds and sesame oil. Mix until combined. Let it cool until you can work the rice with your hands.
- 3
Mold the rice. Wet your hands with water and take about a 1/2 cup of rice in your hands. Using both hands firmly press the rice into a triangle. If you have a mold, fill the mold and press firmly to create the shape.
- 4
Make soy mixture. In a small mixing bowl, add the soy sauce, mirin, and sugar. Mix until combined and the sugar has dissolved. Set aside.
- 5
Grill. Lightly coat your skillet with oil and heat on medium heat. Grill the onigiri until all sides are crispy and lightly browned, about 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Avoid flipping too many times to prevent the rice from falling apart.
- 6
Season with soy sauce mixture. Lower the heat to low, brush one side with soy sauce, and flip to caramelize. Cook for about 10-15 seconds. It can quickly burn at this point, so make sure to work quickly. Brush the other sides with soy sauce and flip to caramelize. Sprinkle with furikake sauce while warm, wrap with a nori strip, and enjoy!