Miso Yaki Onigiri is a classic Japanese rice ball, grilled to perfection and coated with a flavorful miso glaze. The crispy exterior and umami-rich miso make it an irresistible snack or side dish. This easy pan-fried version creates a deliciously crunchy texture without needing a grill. Try this simple and authentic recipe for the perfect Japanese comfort food!
Crispy Miso Grilled Rice Balls (Miso Yaki Onigiri)
Difficulty: ★★☆☆☆Servings
2
servingsPrep time
10
minutesCooking time
20
minutesIngredients
- For the Onigiri:
4–5 rice balls (onigiri), lightly pressed and shaped (Use warm, cooked Japanese short-grain rice for best results.)
1–2 tsp vegetable oil (for frying) (Sesame oil can be used for extra fragrance.)
- For the Miso Glaze:
2 tbsp miso paste (White or red miso works; red miso gives a deeper umami flavor.)
½–1 tbsp mirin (Substitute: ½ tbsp sugar + ½ tbsp water if mirin is unavailable.)
Directions
- Prepare the Rice Balls
Shape warm cooked rice into round or triangular onigiri.
Press them lightly but firmly so they hold their shape, but don't over-compress. (A slightly thinner rice ball will crisp up better.) - Grill the Onigiri
Heat a non-stick frying pan over low heat and add a thin layer of oil.
Place the onigiri in the pan without touching each other.
Grill both sides until a light golden crust forms, about 3–5 minutes per side.
For extra crispiness, grill the edges as well. - Prepare the Miso Glaze
In a small bowl, mix miso and mirin until smooth. (Adjust mirin to your preferred sweetness.) - Coat the Onigiri with Miso
Once both sides are golden brown, brush a thin layer of miso glaze onto one side of the onigiri.
Flip carefully using a spatula and grill for about 30 seconds, just until the miso caramelizes slightly. (Be careful, as miso burns easily!)
Repeat on the other side. - Serve & Enjoy!
Remove from the pan and let cool slightly before serving.
Enjoy your crispy, umami-rich miso yaki onigiri as a snack or side dish!
Notes
- ✔ For an extra crispy texture: Let the rice balls cool slightly before grilling to help form a firmer crust.
✔ For a smoky flavor: Cook on a stovetop grill pan or charcoal grill instead of a frying pan.
✔ For variety: Add sesame seeds, shiso leaves, or a sprinkle of bonito flakes before serving.
✔ For meal prep: Make plain onigiri in advance and store in the fridge; grill them fresh before eating!
✔ For extra umami: Add a touch of soy sauce, butter, or grated garlic to the miso glaze.