Korean Rice Balls
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
Elevate your back-to-school lunch game with these quick and easy Korean Rice Balls! Packed with flavorful ingredients and perfect for on-the-go snacking, these rice balls are a fun twist on traditional Japanese onigiri. Whether you're looking for a nutritious lunch option or a tasty after-school treat, this recipe will delight the whole family.
A Nutritious Option for Everyone
Korean Rice Balls are not only packed with flavor, but they are also a nutritious alternative for lunch or snacks. Made with short-grain rice, which is rich in carbohydrates, these rice balls provide lasting energy. The addition of vegetables like spinach and carrots enhances their nutritional profile, adding essential vitamins and fiber to your diet. Moreover, kimchi contributes probiotics that support gut health, making these rice balls a balanced choice for everyone in the family, from kids to adults.
These rice balls cater to various dietary preferences and can easily be customized. For instance, you can substitute the vegetables or add proteins like chicken, tofu, or seafood to meet individual tastes and dietary needs. This flexibility makes Korean Rice Balls an appealing option for meal prep or lunch boxes, ensuring that no one gets bored with their meals. Plus, serving them with a side of dipping sauce provides a delicious contrast that everyone will love.
Perfect for On-the-Go
With the hustle and bustle of daily life, finding quick and nutritious meals can be challenging. Korean Rice Balls are your perfect solution. They can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator, allowing you to grab them whenever you need a bite. The portable nature of these rice balls makes them ideal for busy parents packing lunches, as they fit easily into lunch boxes without the mess.
Additionally, these rice balls are versatile enough to serve at family gatherings or picnics. Their bite-sized form makes them easy to enjoy while socializing, and they can be paired with various sides to appeal to a larger crowd. Whether you're on a road trip, at a park, or simply enjoying a lunch break at work, these rice balls are sure to satisfy cravings and provide a wholesome snack.
Fun Cooking Activity for Kids
Involve your kids in the kitchen with this exciting recipe! Making Korean Rice Balls can be a fun and interactive activity that helps children develop their cooking skills. From washing the rice to shaping the balls, kids will enjoy getting their hands busy while learning about different ingredients. This hands-on approach fosters a love for cooking and healthy eating from an early age.
Allowing kids to personalize their rice balls by choosing their favorite vegetables or proteins not only makes them more excited to eat but also teaches them about making healthy food choices. Encourage them to experiment with flavors and presentation, turning mealtime into a creative process. Cooking together can strengthen family bonds and provide an enjoyable learning experience.
Ingredients
Gather your ingredients for a delightful experience!
For the Rice Balls
- 2 cups short-grain rice
- 2 1/2 cups water
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1/2 cup cooked and seasoned vegetables (like spinach and carrots)
- 1/2 cup kimchi, finely chopped
- Sesame seeds for garnish
For Dipping Sauce (optional)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
Make sure everything is prepared and ready to go!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create the perfect rice balls.
Prepare the Rice
Rinse the short-grain rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Combine the rice and water in a rice cooker and cook according to the manufacturer's instructions. Once cooked, let it sit covered for 10 minutes.
Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, salt, sesame oil, vegetables, and kimchi. Mix gently with a spatula until everything is evenly combined.
Form the Rice Balls
Wet your hands to prevent sticking and take a small amount of the rice mixture. Shape it into a ball, about the size of a golf ball. Repeat until all the mixture is used.
Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle the rice balls with sesame seeds and serve with the optional dipping sauce.
Enjoy your Korean Rice Balls!
Storage Tips
Korean Rice Balls are best enjoyed fresh; however, they can be stored for future snacking. Place the rice balls in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. To enjoy them warm, simply reheat in the microwave for 15-30 seconds before serving. If you’re making them for meal prep, consider freezing them. Allow the rice balls to cool completely before placing them in a freezer-safe bag, which will keep them fresh for up to a month.
When reheating frozen rice balls, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm them in the microwave. For best results, add a splash of water to maintain moisture while reheating. Avoid letting them sit out for too long to prevent them from drying out.
Serving Suggestions
Korean Rice Balls can be an excellent addition to any meal spread. Serve them alongside light dishes such as salad or miso soup for a complete meal experience. You can also pair them with various dips like sriracha mayo, spicy miso, or even a refreshing cucumber salsa to enhance their flavor profile. Consider adding a fresh fruit or vegetable platter to create a balanced and inviting spread.
For a unique twist, try using your rice balls as an appetizer at parties. Their colorful presentation and savory taste will surely impress your guests. To elevate them even further, garnish with sliced green onions or a drizzle of sesame oil to add a gourmet touch. Your guests will be raving about this tasty offering!
Nutritional Information
Korean Rice Balls are a delightful and nutritious option that fits well into a healthy diet. Each rice ball typically offers a balanced combination of carbs, protein, and fats, particularly when filled with vegetables and paired with a protein dip. Depending on the ingredients used, these can range from 150-250 calories per ball, making them a satisfying yet light treat.
The use of short-grain rice ensures a good source of energy, while the addition of vegetables adds important nutrients that support overall health. The variety of flavors from kimchi and sesame oil also contribute beneficial compounds, making this snack not only delicious but functional in supporting your body's nutritional needs. For more precise nutritional values, consider calculating based on specific ingredients used.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use leftover rice?
Yes, leftover rice works well as long as it’s sticky enough to hold together.
→ How do I store leftover rice balls?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheat in the microwave before serving.
Korean Rice Balls
Elevate your back-to-school lunch game with these quick and easy Korean Rice Balls! Packed with flavorful ingredients and perfect for on-the-go snacking, these rice balls are a fun twist on traditional Japanese onigiri. Whether you're looking for a nutritious lunch option or a tasty after-school treat, this recipe will delight the whole family.
Created by: Lucy Price
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Rice Balls
- 2 cups short-grain rice
- 2 1/2 cups water
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1/2 cup cooked and seasoned vegetables (like spinach and carrots)
- 1/2 cup kimchi, finely chopped
- Sesame seeds for garnish
For Dipping Sauce (optional)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
How-To Steps
Rinse the short-grain rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Combine the rice and water in a rice cooker and cook according to the manufacturer's instructions. Once cooked, let it sit covered for 10 minutes.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, salt, sesame oil, vegetables, and kimchi. Mix gently with a spatula until everything is evenly combined.
Wet your hands to prevent sticking and take a small amount of the rice mixture. Shape it into a ball, about the size of a golf ball. Repeat until all the mixture is used.
Sprinkle the rice balls with sesame seeds and serve with the optional dipping sauce.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fat: 8g