Peanut Butter Onigiri Rice Ball
Discover a delightful fusion of Japanese tradition and creamy indulgence with these Peanut Butter Onigiri Rice Balls. Perfectly seasoned sushi rice forms the base of these handheld snacks, while a unique filling of creamy peanut butter blended with soy sauce and optional sesame seeds adds a savory-sweet surprise in every bite. Wrapped in a strip of nori for a classic touch, these rice balls are not only visually appealing but also packed with umami-rich flavors. This easy recipe is ideal for meal prep, picnics, or a whimsical twist on your lunchtime routine, combining simplicity with an unexpected gourmet flair. Whether enjoyed fresh or saved for later, these onigiri are guaranteed to elevate your snack game!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cups Short-grain rice
- 2.5 cups Water
- 2 tablespoons Rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Sugar
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 3 tablespoons Peanut butter (creamy preferred)
- 1 teaspoon Soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon Sesame seeds (optional)
- 2 sheets Nori sheets (seaweed), cut into strips
- 1 cup Warm water (for shaping)
- 1 teaspoon Salt (for hands)
Instructions
Rinse the short-grain rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
In a medium pot, combine the rinsed rice and 2.5 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 18-20 minutes until the water is fully absorbed.
While the rice is cooking, mix the rice vinegar, sugar, and 1 teaspoon of salt in a small bowl until dissolved. Set aside.
When the rice is done, transfer it to a large bowl and gently fold in the vinegar mixture while the rice is still warm. Let the rice cool until it’s comfortable to handle.
In a small bowl, mix the peanut butter and soy sauce until smooth. Add sesame seeds if using for extra texture and flavor. Set the filling aside.
Prepare a small bowl of warm water and dissolve 1 teaspoon of salt into it. This will help prevent the rice from sticking to your hands while shaping.
Wet your hands with the salted water, then scoop about a 1/3 cup of rice into your palm. Flatten it slightly, creating an indentation in the center.
Spoon a small amount (about 1 teaspoon) of the peanut butter mixture into the indentation. Carefully fold the rice around the filling, ensuring it is completely sealed.
Gently shape the rice ball into a triangle or round shape, pressing lightly to ensure it holds its form.
Wrap a nori strip around the bottom or one side of the onigiri for easy handling.
Repeat with the remaining rice and filling until all onigiri are formed.
Serve immediately or wrap individually in plastic wrap to enjoy later. These are best eaten fresh but can be stored in the fridge for up to a day.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
896 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 26.9 g | 34% | |
| Saturated Fat | 5.1 g | 26% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 5049 mg | 220% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 140.9 g | 51% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 6.0 g | 21% | |
| Total Sugars | 17.5 g | ||
| Protein | 24.6 g | 49% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 167 mg | 13% | |
| Iron | 2.8 mg | 16% | |
| Potassium | 574 mg | 12% | |
*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.
