Yaki Onigiri (Grilled Rice Balls)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Experience the delightful taste of Japanese comfort food with these Yaki Onigiri, or grilled rice balls. Perfectly seasoned rice is shaped into triangles, then grilled until golden and crispy, creating a smoky depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with various fillings and sauces. These savory snacks are not only great for a quick bite but also make an excellent addition to bento boxes or picnics. Enjoy them plain or with a glaze of soy sauce for an authentic taste of Japan!

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2025-11-27T04:11:59.665Z

Yaki Onigiri, or grilled rice balls, is a staple of Japanese cuisine that perfectly showcases the comforting nature of rice. The process of grilling creates a wonderful texture and flavor that makes these balls irresistible.

A Tradition of Flavor

Yaki Onigiri holds a special place in Japanese cuisine as a beloved snack that has been enjoyed for centuries. These grilled rice balls are not only delicious but are also steeped in tradition, often made by families as a way to use leftover rice. The smoky, charred flavor combined with the savory soy sauce glaze captures the simple elegance of Japanese home cooking. By grilling the rice balls, you not only enhance their flavor but also create a delightful texture that leaves a satisfying crunch with each bite.

Whether enjoyed as a quick snack, a picnic staple, or a comforting addition to your bento box, Yaki Onigiri is versatile enough to please both adults and children alike. This snack can be easily customized with a variety of fillings, making it a perfect option for anyone looking to experiment in the kitchen. Incorporating seasonal ingredients allows for a unique twist that reflects the freshness of Japanese culinary artistry.

Perfect Pairings

One of the great joys of Yaki Onigiri is its adaptability. While traditionally enjoyed plain or with a soy sauce glaze, these grilled rice balls can be enhanced with a variety of dips and sides. For a traditional experience, serve with miso soup or a side of pickled vegetables, which offer a tangy contrast to the rich, grilled flavor of the rice balls. Pairing them with a fresh green salad can also provide a light balance, making your meal more satisfying.

If you're feeling adventurous, consider pairing your Yaki Onigiri with a unique condiment. Spicy mayonnaise or a homemade ginger-scallion sauce can add a modern kick to this traditional dish, combining elements from different culinary backgrounds in a single bite. This way, you can explore new taste profiles while enjoying a quintessentially Japanese snack.

Ingredients

Basic Ingredients

2 cups cooked Japanese short-grain rice
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon mirin
Salt to taste
Oil for grilling

Optional Fillings

Grilled salmon
Teriyaki chicken
Pickled vegetables
Cheese

Gather all the ingredients before starting.

Instructions

Prepare the Rice

In a bowl, mix the cooked rice with soy sauce, mirin, and salt to taste.

Shape the Rice Balls

Wet your hands to prevent sticking, then take a portion of the rice and mold it into a triangle shape. Insert optional fillings if desired.

Grill the Onigiri

Preheat a grill or frying pan over medium heat. Lightly brush with oil and grill the rice balls on each side until golden brown and crispy.

Serve

Serve warm, optionally with a glaze of soy sauce brushed on top.

Enjoy your homemade Yaki Onigiri!

Storage and Reheating

Storing leftover Yaki Onigiri is simple, and with the right techniques, you can keep their deliciousness intact. Allow the grilled rice balls to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. However, keep in mind that refrigerated onigiri might lose some of their crispy texture. To maintain their delightful crunch, it's best to enjoy them fresh.

When you’re ready to eat the leftover onigiri, reheat them in a pan over medium heat for a few minutes, turning until they are warm and slightly crisp again. Alternatively, you can place them in an air fryer or toaster oven to regain some of the original texture while heating through. This way, you can savor the taste of homemade Yaki Onigiri as if they were freshly made.

Explore Different Fillings

Yaki Onigiri provides a wonderful opportunity to experiment with various fillings, allowing you to tailor each rice ball to your palate. While traditional fillings such as grilled salmon or teriyaki chicken are classic favorites, don’t hesitate to try out other ingredients. For a vegetarian option, consider using sautéed mushrooms or a medley of seasonal vegetables, which bring a rich umami flavor and added nutrients.

Cheese lovers can also rejoice, as adding cheese to your onigiri creates a delightful melty surprise at the center that pairs beautifully with the grilled exterior. Just be sure to choose a cheese that melts well, such as mozzarella or cheddar, for the best results. This twist on a traditional dish offers a comforting fusion that is sure to impress guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make Yaki Onigiri in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the rice balls in advance, but it's best to grill them just before serving for optimal crispiness.

→ What kind of rice should I use?

Short-grain Japanese rice works best for Yaki Onigiri as it is stickier and holds together well.