Yaki Onigiri Recipe – Japanese Rice Balls

1. Cook rice as directed on package. Cover baking sheet with aluminum foil; brush with 1 teaspoon oil.
2. Mix vinegar, miso and sugar until well blended. Pour about half the mixture into hot rice; mix gently with rubber spatula.
3. Line the inside of a ramekin with 10-inch square of plastic wrap. Add about ¾ cup rice mixture and use plastic to firmly press into a compact ball. Shape into a thick triangle, remove from plastic, and arrange on prepared pan. Repeat with remaining rice mixture.
4. Heat broiler to HIGH. Brush tops of rice cakes with remaining oil.
5. Broil 2-3 min. on each side or until lightly browned. Brush with half the remaining vinegar mixture. Broil 1-2 min. or until deeply browned. Turn rice cakes and brush with remaining mixture. Broil 1-2 min. Sprinkle with onions and sesame seed before serving.

YIELD
8 servings

TIPS

These golden-crusted rice balls are traditionally grilled over charcoal until caramelized. Using the broiler creates a similar texture. Enjoy as a snack, appetizer or side dish instead of plain rice.