Description
These irresistibly easy Korean rice balls are a perfect way to elevate your lunch game with flavorful, bite-sized morsels packed with savory fillings like tuna, bulgogi beef, kimchi, or shredded chicken. Soft, sticky short-grain rice is seasoned with sesame oil and salt, then combined with delicious Korean-inspired ingredients, seaweed flakes, and sesame seeds. They’re simple to make, can be enjoyed immediately, or stored for a quick, tasty meal on the go.
Ingredients
Scale
Rice Base
- 2 cups cooked, warm short-grain rice
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- ½ tsp salt
Fillings
- ½ cup canned tuna, drained and mixed with 1 tbsp mayonnaise
- ½ cup cooked bulgogi beef, finely chopped
- ½ cup finely chopped kimchi, excess liquid squeezed out
- ½ cup shredded cooked chicken with soy sauce
Seasonings & Garnish
- 2 tbsp roasted seaweed flakes
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- ½ tsp gochugaru (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the rice: Start by preparing the short-grain rice according to the package instructions until it’s slightly sticky but not mushy, ensuring the perfect texture for molding.
- Season rice: Once the rice is warm, mix in the sesame oil and salt thoroughly to infuse it with nutty flavor and seasoning.
- Prepare filling: Choose your preferred filling. Mix the canned tuna with mayonnaise, finely chop the bulgogi beef or shredded chicken, and squeeze excess liquid from the kimchi to prevent sogginess.
- Combine ingredients: In a spacious bowl, gently fold the seasoned rice with your selected fillings, roasted seaweed flakes, sesame seeds, soy sauce, and if desired, add gochugaru for a spicy kick.
- Shape rice balls: Lightly wet your hands with water or sesame oil to prevent sticking. Take about ¼ cup of the rice mixture and compress it firmly into a ball or oval shape.
- Serve or store: Enjoy your Korean rice balls immediately or wrap them individually in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours for an easy, delicious meal later.
Notes
- Use warm rice to make shaping easier.
- Feel free to customize fillings based on your preference; you can use any protein or vegetables you like.
- Wetting hands with sesame oil adds extra nuttiness and prevents sticking.
- Store wrapped rice balls in the refrigerator and consume within 24 hours to maintain freshness.
- Gochugaru is optional but adds authentic Korean heat and flavor.
