Low Sodium Grilled Rice Ball (Yaki Onigiri)

Discover the savory simplicity of Low Sodium Grilled Rice Balls (Yaki Onigiri), a healthier twist on a beloved Japanese classic. These crispy, golden rice balls are made with fluffy Japanese short-grain rice, lightly seasoned with low sodium soy sauce and mirin for a delicate umami flavor. Perfectly grilled to achieve a smoky caramelized crust, they’re then wrapped in nori and topped with toasted sesame seeds for a delightful crunch. With minimal sodium and no compromise on taste, this recipe is ideal for those seeking a flavorful, heart-friendly snack or side dish. Easy to prepare in under an hour, these versatile rice balls are great for bento boxes, picnics, or as an appetizer for Japanese-inspired meals.

Nutriscore Rating: 70/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:45 mins

Total Time:60 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 cups Japanese short-grain rice
• 2.5 cups Water
• 2 tablespoons Low sodium soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Mirin (sweet rice wine, low sodium if available)
• 1 tablespoon Vegetable oil
• 1 sheet Nori (seaweed), cut into small strips
• 1 tablespoon Sesame seeds, toasted

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the Japanese short-grain rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.

Step 2

Combine the rinsed rice and 2.5 cups of water in a rice cooker and cook according to the manufacturer's instructions. If using a pot, bring rice and water to a boil, reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.

Step 3

Let the rice rest for 10 minutes after cooking, then fluff with a fork. Allow the rice to cool slightly until it's comfortable to handle.

Step 4

Wet your hands with water to prevent sticking, and take about 1/3 cup of rice. Shape the rice into a round or triangular ball by pressing gently with your palms. Repeat with the remaining rice to make 6-8 rice balls.

Step 5

In a small bowl, mix low sodium soy sauce and mirin.

Step 6

Heat vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium heat.

Step 7

Place rice balls in the pan or on the grill and cook until they develop a crispy, golden brown crust, about 4-5 minutes per side.

Step 8

Brush a bit of the soy sauce mixture over each rice ball and continue to grill for another 2 minutes on each side, just until the sauce has caramelized.

Step 9

Remove rice balls from heat and let them cool slightly.

Step 10

Wrap nori strips around each rice ball and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1073g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	751.1

Total Fat 18.4g	0%
Saturated Fat 2.9g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 8.4g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 1201.0mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 127.9g	0%
Dietary Fiber 3.2g	0%
Total Sugars 7.6g
Protein 15.0g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 161.6mg	0%
Iron 2.8mg	0%
Potassium 345.4mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 22.5%

Protein: 8.1%

Carbs: 69.4%