Korean Rice Balls

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Satisfy your cravings with these quick and easy Korean Rice Balls, perfect for busy back-to-school days! Packed with delicious flavors and wrapped in seaweed, these bite-sized treats are both nutritious and fun to eat. Customize the fillings to your liking, from savory bacon to refreshing vegetables. Whether enjoyed as a lunchbox staple or a wholesome snack, they are sure to delight kids and adults alike!

Hayley Morton

Created by

Hayley Morton

Last updated on 2025-12-13T15:40:52.841Z

These Korean Rice Balls are not only quick to make but also versatile. You can experiment with various fillings and enjoy them anytime.

Easy to Customize

One of the best aspects of Korean Rice Balls is their versatility. You can easily customize the fillings to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Whether you prefer savory options like crumbled bacon or vegetable choices such as diced cucumbers and carrots, the possibilities are endless. This makes them a fantastic option for picky eaters—everyone can create their own delightful combinations.

For an extra punch of flavor, consider adding ingredients like spicy kimchi, marinated mushrooms, or even shredded chicken. Just be mindful of the moisture content so that your rice balls hold their shape. The customization not only enhances the taste but also makes the preparation process fun for the entire family.

Perfect for Meal Prep

Korean Rice Balls are an ideal choice for meal prepping. They can be made in batches and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. This makes them a perfect grab-and-go snack or lunch for busy weekdays. Just pop them in a lunchbox for an easy, nutritious meal that can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature.

To keep them fresher for longer, consider wrapping each rice ball individually in plastic wrap or placing them in airtight containers. Pair these rice balls with fresh fruit or yogurt for a complete meal or snack, ensuring that you have balanced nutrition ready to go at all times.

Fun for All Ages

These Korean Rice Balls aren't just for kids; they are an enjoyable treat for people of all ages. Their bite-sized nature makes them a fun food option for parties, picnics, or family gatherings. You can even set up a DIY rice ball station where guests can choose their own fillings, fostering creativity and engagement during your gatherings.

Moreover, involving kids in the preparation process can be an excellent opportunity for them to learn about food and cooking. This can also spark discussions about nutritious ingredients and flavors, turning mealtime into an educational experience. The combination of fun and nourishment in these rice balls is guaranteed to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients

Ingredients

Korean Rice Balls Filling

  • 1 cup of cooked rice
  • 1/2 cup of diced vegetables (carrots, cucumbers)
  • 1/4 cup of cooked bacon, crumbled
  • Soy sauce to taste
  • Sesame seeds for garnish
  • Nori (seaweed) sheets

Feel free to get creative with your fillings!

Instructions

Instructions

Prepare the Rice

In a bowl, mix the cooked rice with your choice of fillings. Add soy sauce to taste.

Shape the Rice Balls

Wet your hands with water to prevent sticking and take a handful of the rice mixture. Form it into a ball.

Wrap with Nori

Cut nori sheets into strips and wrap them around the rice balls. You can leave one side open for easier eating.

Serve and Enjoy

Sprinkle sesame seeds on top and serve fresh!

These can be stored in an airtight container for a day.

Nutrition Benefits

Korean Rice Balls are not only tasty but also packed with nutritional benefits. With a base of cooked rice, they provide a good source of carbohydrates, which is essential for energy, especially for kids who need fuel for their busy days. Add in a variety of vegetables, and you’ve got yourself a dish rich in vitamins and minerals.

In addition, the inclusion of protein-rich ingredients like bacon or tofu contributes to satiety, making these rice balls a filling option. You can also enhance their nutritional profile with whole grain rice or brown rice, which adds fiber and further health benefits.

Cooking Tips

To get the best texture for your Korean Rice Balls, it's crucial to use the right type of rice. Short-grain rice works beautifully because it has a higher starch content, making it stickier and easier to mold. Remember to let your rice cool down slightly after cooking before forming it into balls to avoid burns on your hands.

When shaping your rice balls, wetting your hands with water helps prevent sticking. This simple trick ensures smooth handling and makes forming uniform shapes much easier. Additionally, a small amount of salt can be added to the rice while cooking for enhanced flavor.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these rice balls ahead of time?

Yes, they can be made a few hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

Korean Rice Balls

Satisfy your cravings with these quick and easy Korean Rice Balls, perfect for busy back-to-school days! Packed with delicious flavors and wrapped in seaweed, these bite-sized treats are both nutritious and fun to eat. Customize the fillings to your liking, from savory bacon to refreshing vegetables. Whether enjoyed as a lunchbox staple or a wholesome snack, they are sure to delight kids and adults alike!

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration10 minutes
Overall Time25 minutes

Created by: Hayley Morton

Recipe Type: Quick & Easy

Skill Level: Beginner

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Korean Rice Balls Filling

  1. 1 cup of cooked rice
  2. 1/2 cup of diced vegetables (carrots, cucumbers)
  3. 1/4 cup of cooked bacon, crumbled
  4. Soy sauce to taste
  5. Sesame seeds for garnish
  6. Nori (seaweed) sheets

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a bowl, mix the cooked rice with your choice of fillings. Add soy sauce to taste.

Step 02

Wet your hands with water to prevent sticking and take a handful of the rice mixture. Form it into a ball.

Step 03

Cut nori sheets into strips and wrap them around the rice balls. You can leave one side open for easier eating.

Step 04

Sprinkle sesame seeds on top and serve fresh!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 250
  • Total Fat: 9g
  • Protein: 5g