Description
Easy Sushi Balls, also known as onigiri-style sushi bites, offer a simple and fun way to enjoy sushi flavors without the need for rolling. These handheld bites combine seasoned sushi rice with fresh fillings like cooked salmon or avocado, making them perfect for lunches, snacks, appetizers, or light meals.
Ingredients
Sushi Rice
- 2 cups cooked sushi rice, cooled slightly
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
Filling
- 4 oz cooked salmon, canned tuna, or imitation crab, flaked
- 1 small avocado, diced
- 1 tbsp mayonnaise (optional)
Assembly
- 2 sheets nori, cut into small strips
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
- Soy sauce, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the sushi rice seasoning: In a small bowl, combine rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until fully dissolved to create the sushi rice seasoning.
- Season the rice: Gently mix the vinegar seasoning into the warm cooked sushi rice, ensuring even distribution, then allow the rice to cool to a comfortable handling temperature.
- Mix the filling: In a separate bowl, combine flaked cooked salmon (or tuna or imitation crab), diced avocado, and mayonnaise if desired, mixing well.
- Prepare to shape: Lightly wet your hands with water to prevent the rice from sticking during shaping.
- Form the base of the sushi balls: Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the seasoned sushi rice into your palm and flatten it slightly to create a base.
- Add the filling: Place a small spoonful of the prepared filling in the center of the flattened rice.
- Shape the sushi balls: Cover the filling with another spoonful of rice and gently press and shape the mixture into a compact ball, ensuring the filling is sealed inside.
- Repeat: Continue shaping the remaining rice and filling into balls following the same method.
- Wrap and garnish: Wrap each rice ball with a strip of nori seaweed and sprinkle sesame seeds on top for added flavor and texture.
- Serve: Arrange the sushi balls on a plate and serve them with soy sauce for dipping alongside optional accompaniments like spicy mayo or wasabi.
Notes
- Keep your hands damp while shaping the rice balls to prevent sticking and ensure smooth formation.
- Feel free to substitute the filling with cooked shrimp, smoked salmon, or vegetables for a vegetarian option.
- For the best texture and flavor, enjoy these sushi balls the same day they are made.
- Enhance flavor by serving with spicy mayo or a small dab of wasabi on the side.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Japanese
