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+ servings
Korean Rice Balls

Irresistible Korean Rice Balls: Easy, Flavor-Packed Delights

Discover the delightful world of Korean rice balls with customizable fillings and gluten-free options.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 8 rice balls
Course: Snacks
Cuisine: Korean
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

For the Rice
  • 1 cup short-grain rice Essential for holding the balls together
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil Adds nutty flavor
  • 1 teaspoon salt Adjust according to preference
For the Fillings
  • 1-2 cups canned tuna Mix with mayonnaise for creaminess
  • 1-2 cups bulgogi beef Finely chopped for even distribution
  • 1 cup kimchi Squeeze out excess liquid before mixing
For the Toppings and Extras
  • 2 tablespoons roasted seaweed flakes (Gim) Provides an umami boost
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds For garnishing and crunch
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce Use gluten-free for gluten-free version
  • 1 teaspoon gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes) Optional for extra heat

Equipment

  • rice cooker
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Plastic Wrap

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Rinse the short-grain rice until water runs clear, then cook according to package instructions, typically around 20 minutes with a 1:1.2 rice-to-water ratio. Let rice cool slightly, then mix in sesame oil and salt while still warm.
  2. Decide on your filling for the rice balls. You can use canned tuna mixed with mayonnaise, finely chopped bulgogi beef, or spicy kimchi, ensuring well-prepared ingredients.
  3. In a large bowl, gently mix the seasoned rice with your chosen filling, incorporating roasted seaweed flakes, sesame seeds, and a dash of soy sauce or gochugaru.
  4. Wet your hands, take about 1/4 cup of the rice mixture and press it firmly between your palms to form a ball about the size of a golf ball. Repeat until all mixture is used, producing about 8-10 rice balls.
  5. Serve immediately or wrap rice balls individually in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours or freeze for up to a month.

Nutrition

Serving: 1rice ballCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 5gFat: 2gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 1gVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 4mg

Notes

Experiment with fillings and shapes to create your own unique rice balls. Enjoy at room temperature for the best texture.

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