Japanese Grilled Yaki Onigiri (Crispy Rice Balls)

Introduction

Yaki Onigiri are crispy, grilled Japanese rice balls with a delicious soy sauce glaze. Using the Arteflame grill, these rice balls get the perfect sear on the flat cooktop, developing a crunchy crust while keeping the inside warm and tender. These are a fantastic snack or side dish, packed with flavor and easy to make.

Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked Japanese short-grain rice
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)
• 1 sheet nori, cut into strips (optional)
• 1 teaspoon miso paste (optional, for extra umami)
• 1/2 teaspoon mirin (optional, for sweetness)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the paper napkins inside the grill.
3. Stack firewood over the oil-soaked napkins.
4. Light the napkins and let the fire build for about 20 minutes until the cooktop is hot and ready.

Step 2: Shape the Rice Balls

1. Wet your hands with water to prevent sticking.
2. Take about 1/2 cup of warm cooked rice and shape it into a firm triangle or round ball.
3. Repeat with the remaining rice.

Step 3: Grill the Rice Balls

1. Place the rice balls onto the hotter side of the flat cooktop griddle.
2. Let them sear undisturbed for 3-4 minutes until they develop a crispy golden crust.
3. Flip and repeat for another 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Brush with Soy Sauce

1. Melt the butter on the griddle near the rice balls.
2. Mix soy sauce with a small amount of mirin and miso paste (if using).
3. Brush the mixture onto the rice balls and grill for another 1-2 minutes per side, allowing caramelization.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Remove from the grill and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
2. Wrap with nori strips for added texture.
3. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips

• Use freshly cooked rice for best results; it helps the rice hold its shape better.
• Don’t flip too soon—let the crust develop for the best texture.
• Adjust grilling zones; use higher heat for searing and lower heat for caramelizing.

Variations

1. Spicy Yaki Onigiri: Add a teaspoon of chili paste or sriracha to the soy sauce mixture for a little heat.
2. Cheese-Stuffed Onigiri: Insert a small cube of mozzarella or cheddar in the center before shaping.
3. Teriyaki Glaze: Use a mix of teriyaki sauce instead of soy sauce for a sweeter finish.
4. Sesame Miso: Mix sesame oil and miso paste for a rich umami glaze.
5. Garlic Butter: Melt butter with minced garlic and brush it onto the rice balls for extra flavor.

Best Pairings

• Miso soup for a comforting touch.
• Grilled teriyaki chicken for a filling meal.
• Pickled vegetables for a refreshing contrast.
• Green tea to balance the flavors.

Conclusion

Grilling Yaki Onigiri on the Arteflame flat cooktop results in perfectly crispy rice balls with a delicious caramelized glaze. Whether as a snack or side, these flavorful Japanese rice balls are sure to impress.