Yaki Onigiri Japanese Grilled Rice Balls Recipe 2025

Yaki Onigiri Japanese grilled rice balls recipe is one of my favorite comfort foods. These delicious rice balls are not only tasty but also incredibly versatile. I remember the first time I had them at a small street vendor in Japan. The smoky flavor from the grill paired with the crispy exterior was unforgettable. Today, I want to share my recipe for making Yaki Onigiri at home, along with tips and tricks to make them just right.

What is Yaki Onigiri?

Yaki Onigiri is a grilled rice ball that originates from Japan. It is made from cooked rice that is shaped into a triangle or oval and then grilled until crispy. Traditionally, they are often brushed with soy sauce or miso for added flavor. These rice balls are a popular snack or light meal, perfect for picnics or bento boxes.

Ingredients for Yaki Onigiri Japanese Grilled Rice Balls

To make these delightful rice balls, you will need a few simple ingredients. Here’s what I use:

2 cups of short-grain Japanese rice
2 1/2 cups of water
1 tablespoon of salt
Soy sauce or miso paste for brushing
Optional fillings: grilled salmon, pickled plum, or any protein of your choice

How to Make Yaki Onigiri Japanese Grilled Rice Balls

The first step in making Yaki Onigiri is cooking the rice. I always recommend using short-grain Japanese rice for the best texture. Here’s how I do it:

Rinse the Rice: Place the rice in a bowl and rinse it under cold water. Swirl it around until the water becomes cloudy. Drain and repeat this process until the water runs clear.
Soak the Rice: After rinsing, soak the rice in water for about 30 minutes. This helps the grains absorb moisture and cook evenly.
Cook the Rice: Combine the soaked rice and 2 1/2 cups of water in a rice cooker or a pot. If using a pot, bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Cook for about 15-20 minutes until the rice is tender.

Shaping the Onigiri

Once the rice is cooked and slightly cooled, it’s time to shape the rice balls. Here’s how I do it:

Wet Your Hands: This prevents the rice from sticking. I always keep a bowl of water nearby for this purpose.
Add Salt: Sprinkle a little salt on your hands. This adds flavor to the rice and helps with shaping.
Shape the Rice: Take a handful of rice and flatten it slightly in your palm. If you want to add a filling, place it in the center and mold the rice around it. Form it into a triangle or oval shape, pressing gently but firmly.

Grilling the Onigiri

Grilling is what makes Yaki Onigiri special. The grilling adds a smoky flavor and a crispy texture. Here’s how I grill them:

Preheat the Grill: You can use a grill pan, an outdoor grill, or even a broiler. I prefer a grill pan for convenience.
Brush with Soy Sauce: Lightly brush the shaped rice balls with soy sauce or miso paste. This adds flavor and helps achieve a nice glaze.
Grill the Rice Balls: Place the rice balls on the grill. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy. Brush them with more soy sauce as they cook for extra flavor.

Serving The Yaki Onigiri Japanese Grilled Rice Balls

Yaki Onigiri can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are some of my favorite serving suggestions:

As a Snack: Enjoy them warm as a quick snack.
In a Bento Box: Pack them in a bento box with pickled vegetables and fruit for a balanced meal.
With Soup: Serve alongside a bowl of miso soup for a comforting meal.

Variations of Yaki Onigiri Japanese Grilled Rice Balls

One of the best things about Yaki Onigiri is how versatile they are. You can customize them with different fillings and flavors. Here are some variations I love:

Salmon Onigiri: Add grilled salmon flakes in the center for a classic flavor.
Vegetable Onigiri: Use sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a vegetarian option.
Spicy Tuna Onigiri: Mix canned tuna with spicy mayo for a kick.

Storing Leftover Yaki Onigiri

If you have leftover rice balls, storing them properly is key. Here’s how I do it:

Refrigerate: Place leftover Yaki Onigiri in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to three days.
Reheat: To reheat, grill them again for a few minutes on each side. This helps restore the crispy exterior.

Tips

Making Yaki Onigiri can be simple, but there are a few tips that can help ensure they turn out perfectly:

Use Freshly Cooked Rice: Fresh rice is easier to shape and holds together better than cold rice.
Don’t Overcook the Rice: Overcooked rice can become mushy and hard to shape.
Experiment with Flavors: Don’t be afraid to try different fillings and flavorings.

Nutritional Benefits

Yaki Onigiri is not just delicious; it also offers some nutritional benefits:

Carbohydrates: The rice provides a good source of energy.
Protein: Depending on your filling, you can add protein to your diet.
Vitamins and Minerals: Ingredients like vegetables or fish can boost the nutritional value.

Why You Should Try Yaki Onigiri

If you haven’t tried Yaki Onigiri yet, I highly recommend giving it a go. They are fun to make and offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Plus, they are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a picnic, lunch, or a cozy dinner at home.