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Crispy Grilled Rice Balls with Savory Soy Glaze

crispy grilled rice balls - featured image
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Transform leftover rice into crispy, golden rice balls with a savory soy glaze that caramelizes to perfection. This quick and easy recipe delivers a satisfying crunch and chewy interior, perfect as a snack, side dish, or appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups cooked white rice, day-old preferred
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil, for cooking
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon mirin
  • 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, for garnish
  • 2 green onions, sliced, for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, rice vinegar, and salt. Gently fold until evenly distributed.
  2. Lightly wet your hands with water. Scoop about ½ cup of the rice mixture, press firmly into a ball, then flatten into a disc about ½ inch thick. Repeat to make about 8 discs.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, mirin, and minced garlic (if using). Set aside.
  4. Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of sesame oil and heat until shimmering.
  5. Place 4 rice discs in the hot pan. Cook undisturbed for about 4 minutes until deep golden brown and crispy. Flip carefully and cook another 3-4 minutes.
  6. Reduce heat to medium-low. Brush the tops of the rice balls with the soy glaze. Cook for 30 seconds, then flip and brush the other side. Cook for another 30 seconds.
  7. Transfer to a plate. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve immediately.

Notes

Use day-old rice for best texture. Press rice firmly when shaping to prevent falling apart. Don’t flip too early; let the crust develop. Watch the glaze closely as it can burn quickly. Keep finished rice balls warm in a 200°F oven for up to 20 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy rice balls, grilled rice balls, soy glaze, leftover rice, Japanese appetizer, gluten-free option, vegan option

Find it online: https://emacrave.com/crispy-grilled-rice-balls-with-savory-soy-glaze/