Yaki Onigiri in Air Fryer (Japanese grilled rice ball)

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Air Fryer Yaki Onigiri (Japanese Grilled Rice Balls)

Yaki Onigiri are crispy, grilled rice balls with a savory glaze, often enjoyed as a snack or side dish. Traditionally grilled over charcoal, using an air fryer makes them easier to prepare with less oil while still achieving that delicious crispy exterior.

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🌾 Ingredients (Makes 4-6 onigiri)

For the rice balls:

• 2 cups cooked Japanese short-grain rice (warm, not hot)
• 1/2 tsp salt (to season the rice)

For the glaze:

• 1 tbsp soy sauce (for umami and saltiness)
• 1 tbsp mirin (optional, adds a slight sweetness)
• 1/2 tbsp miso paste (adds depth and richness)
• 1/2 tbsp sesame oil or butter (for brushing)

Optional toppings:

• Furikake (Japanese rice seasoning)
• Toasted sesame seeds
• Bonito flakes
• Chopped green onions

Optional fillings:

• Tuna mayo (canned tuna + Japanese mayo)
• Miso butter (miso + softened butter)
• Umeboshi (pickled plum)
• Cooked salmon flakes

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🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Cook the Rice

• Use high-quality Japanese short-grain rice (like sushi rice).
• Cook the rice using a rice cooker, stovetop, or Instant Pot.
• Let it cool slightly before shaping.

2️⃣ Shape the Onigiri

• Wet your hands with water and rub a little salt on them (this prevents sticking and adds flavor).
• Take about 1/3 cup of rice and firmly shape it into a triangle or round ball.
• If adding a filling, flatten the rice, place about 1 tsp of filling in the center, and wrap the rice around it, pressing gently.

3️⃣ Air Fry the Onigiri

• Lightly brush or spray the rice balls with sesame oil or butter for crispiness.
• Place them in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t touch.
• Air fry at 380°F (190°C) for 10 minutes, flipping halfway, until lightly crispy.

4️⃣ Apply the Glaze & Crisp Again

• Mix soy sauce, mirin, and miso paste in a small bowl.
• Brush the glaze on all sides of the onigiri.
• Air fry for another 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy.

5️⃣ Serve & Enjoy!

• Sprinkle with furikake, sesame seeds, or bonito flakes.
• Serve warm with miso soup, pickles, or grilled fish.

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💡 Tips for Perfect Yaki Onigiri

✅ Use warm rice – Cold rice won’t stick together well.
✅ Shape firmly – If too loose, the onigiri may fall apart.
✅ Don’t overcrowd the air fryer – Leave space for even cooking.
✅ Adjust glaze to taste – More miso for richness, more mirin for sweetness.