Yaki Onigiri

Yaki Onigiri are grilled rice balls with a crispy exterior and a soft, flavorful interior, making them a delightful vegetarian breakfast option. Infused with umami from soy sauce and filled with a savory vegetable mix, these rice balls are perfect for a nutritious start to your day.

Ingredients

• Japanese short-grain rice - 1 cup (200g)
• Water - 1 1/4 cups (300ml)
• Soy sauce - 2 tablespoons (30ml)
• Sesame oil - 1 tablespoon (15ml)
• Carrot - 1 small, finely chopped (50g)
• Spinach - 1 cup, chopped (30g)
• Green onion - 2, finely sliced (20g)
• Salt - 1/2 teaspoon (3g)
• Nori sheets - 2, cut into strips

Steps

1. Rinse the Japanese short-grain rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then soak it in water for 30 minutes.
2. Drain the soaked rice and add it to a pot with 1 1/4 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until the rice is tender and water is absorbed.
3. Remove the pot from heat and let the rice sit, covered, for another 10 minutes.
4. In a skillet, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add the chopped carrot and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened.
5. Add the chopped spinach and green onion to the skillet, and stir-fry for another 2 minutes. Season with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and salt. Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly.
6. Once the rice has cooled enough to handle, wet your hands with water and take about 1/2 cup of rice. Flatten it in your palm and place a spoonful of the vegetable filling in the center. Mold the rice around the filling to form a ball or triangle shape, ensuring the filling is sealed inside. Repeat with the remaining rice and filling.
7. Preheat a grill pan or non-stick skillet over medium heat. Brush the outside of each rice ball with a little soy sauce.
8. Grill the onigiri for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
9. Remove from the pan and wrap a strip of nori around each onigiri for added flavor and presentation. Serve warm.

Nutrition

• Calories: 260
• Protein: 6 g
• Carbs: 45 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 8 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Water: 0.3 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in carbohydrates, providing a quick source of energy.
• Packed with vitamins and minerals from vegetables like spinach and carrots.

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