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–+ servings
Korean Rice Balls

Korean Rice Balls: Quick, Customizable Snacks for Every Craving

Korean Rice Balls are quick, customizable snacks perfect for every craving, making them a delightful and wholesome option.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 balls
Course: Snacks
Cuisine: Korean
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Rice
  • 1 cup Cooked Short-Grain Rice This sticky base helps hold the rice balls together.
  • 1 tablespoon Sesame Oil Use dark, authentic Korean sesame oil for best results.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Kosher or table salt works perfectly.
For the Filling
  • ½ cup Canned Tuna Mix with mayonnaise for creaminess.
  • ½ cup Cooked Bulgogi Beef Finely chopped and seasoned beforehand.
  • ½ cup Kimchi Squeeze out excess liquid for best texture.
  • ½ cup Cooked Chicken Shredded and can be marinated in soy sauce.
For the Flavor
  • 2 tablespoons Roasted Seaweed Flakes (Gim) Provides umami flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Sesame Seeds Introduces crunch; crushed nuts are a substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon Soy Sauce Low-sodium options reduce salt intake.
  • ½ teaspoon Gochugaru Optional; adjust based on spice preference.

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • measuring cups
  • measuring spoons

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook 1 cup of short-grain rice according to package instructions, approximately 20 minutes. Transfer to a bowl, drizzle 1 tablespoon sesame oil and add a pinch of salt, mixing thoroughly.
  2. Combine your preferred filling in a separate bowl (e.g., mix ½ cup canned tuna with mayonnaise). Add filling, 2 tablespoons seaweed flakes, 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, 1 teaspoon soy sauce, and optional ½ teaspoon gochugaru to rice. Blend gently.
  3. Wet your hands with water or sesame oil, scoop ¼ cup of mixture into one palm, and press into a ball shape. Repeat until all mixture is shaped.
  4. Enjoy your Korean Rice Balls immediately or wrap tightly in plastic wrap/store in an airtight container in the fridge. They last fresh for up to 24 hours.

Nutrition

Serving: 1ballCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 23gProtein: 6gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 4mg

Notes

Warm rice is key for shaping, wet your hands to prevent stickiness, and pack gently to maintain shape. Explore different fillings for unique variations.

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