Description
For the Rice Balls:
2 cups cooked short-grain rice, cooled
1 tbsp sesame oil
1 tbsp soy sauce
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp rice vinegar
For the Glaze:
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp mirin (or honey)
1 tsp sesame oil
1/2 tsp grated ginger
For Garnish:
1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
1 tbsp chopped green onions (optional)
Directions:
In a large bowl, mix the cooled rice with sesame oil, soy sauce, salt, black pepper, and rice vinegar. Stir gently until well combined.
Wet your hands with a little water and form the rice into triangular or oval shapes, about 2-3 inches in size.
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, mirin, sesame oil, and grated ginger to make the glaze.
Place the rice balls in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching. Spray lightly with cooking spray.
Air fry the rice balls for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy on all sides.
Brush the glaze over the rice balls and air fry for another 2-3 minutes to caramelize the glaze.
Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions, then serve warm.
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 12 minutes Total Time: 22 minutes Kcal: 180 per rice ball Servings: 6 rice balls
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Rice: Start with 2 cups of cooked, cooled short-grain rice (like sushi rice). The rice must be cool to handle and should be slightly sticky. In a large bowl, gently fold in the sesame oil, soy sauce, salt, black pepper, and rice vinegar until evenly distributed. Avoid over-mixing to prevent mushiness.
2. Form the Balls: Keep a small bowl of water nearby. Lightly wet your hands to prevent sticking. Take a heaping tablespoon of the rice mixture and gently press it into a compact triangular or oval shape, about 2-3 inches wide. Ensure each ball is firmly packed so it holds together during cooking.
3. Make the Glaze: While the air fryer preheats to 375°F (190°C), whisk together the glaze ingredients—soy sauce, mirin (or honey), sesame oil, and grated ginger—in a small bowl until fully combined. Set aside.
4. First Air Fry Cycle: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil. Arrange the rice balls in a single layer without touching. Air fry for 6-8 minutes, pausing to carefully flip each ball halfway through, until they are golden and have a crispy exterior.
5. Glaze and Finish: Remove the basket. Using a pastry brush, generously coat each rice ball with the glaze. Return them to the air fryer for a final 2-3 minutes until the glaze is sticky and caramelized.
6. Garnish and Serve: Immediately after removing, sprinkle the hot rice balls with toasted sesame seeds and optional chopped green onions. Serve while warm for the best texture.
Serving Suggestions
These crispy glazed rice balls are incredibly versatile. Serve them as a standout appetizer with a side of spicy mayo or sweet chili sauce for dipping. For a light meal, pair them with a simple cucumber salad or a bowl of miso soup. They also make a fantastic addition to a bento box alongside teriyaki chicken or grilled vegetables.
How-to Summary
Mix seasoned, cooled rice, form into compact shapes, and air fry until crispy. Brush with a savory-sweet ginger-soy glaze and air fry briefly to caramelize. Finish with sesame seeds and green onions for a perfect savory snack.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use long-grain rice instead? Short-grain rice is essential for its sticky texture, which holds the balls together. Long-grain rice will likely crumble.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled rice balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to restore crispiness.
My rice balls are falling apart. What went wrong? The rice may have been too warm when shaping, or not packed firmly enough. Ensure the rice is completely cool and compact each ball tightly with wet hands.
Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, you can form the uncoated rice balls and refrigerate them for a few hours before air frying. Add 1-2 minutes to the initial cooking time if starting from cold.
What can I substitute for mirin? An equal amount of honey or maple syrup mixed with a teaspoon of rice vinegar makes an excellent substitute for mirin’s sweet-tangy flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using warm rice, which makes the balls sticky and difficult to shape.
- Over-packing the air fryer basket, which prevents even air circulation and crispiness.
- Skipping the water on your hands, causing the rice to stick to your fingers.
- Applying the glaze too early, which can cause it to burn instead of caramelizing.
- Not flipping the rice balls halfway through the first cook, resulting in uneven browning.
Conclusion
These Air Fryer Glazed Rice balls are a simple yet impressive dish that transforms basic ingredients into a crispy, flavorful treat. The combination of savory rice and a sweet-savory glaze creates a delightful contrast in every bite. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can easily avoid common pitfalls and achieve perfect results. They are a testament to how an air fryer can elevate everyday staples into something special, perfect for a quick snack or a shareable appetizer.
