Go Back
Korean Rice Balls

Irresistible Korean Rice Balls: Your New Favorite Snack!

These Korean Rice Balls, or Jumeokbap, are a delicious blend of spicy, savory, and umami flavors, perfect as a healthy snack.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 rice balls
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: Korean
Calories: 120
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Rice
  • 2 cups cooked short-grain rice Use warm rice to help the ingredients stick together.
For the Flavor Base
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil Substitute with olive oil if desired.
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce Tamari works well as a gluten-free alternative.
  • 1 tablespoon gochujang Adjust the amount to suit your taste.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder Fresh minced garlic can be used for extra potency.
  • to taste salt Adjust for the saltiness of the soy sauce.
For the Mix-Ins
  • ½ cup chopped kimchi Use vegan kimchi for a plant-based version.
  • 2 tablespoons chopped green onions Finely chopped chives are a suitable substitute.
  • 2 tablespoons sesame seeds Consider using toasted seeds for a deeper flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons roasted seaweed flakes Crushed nori works perfectly too.

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • Serving platter

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Korean Rice Balls
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of warm cooked short-grain rice with 2 tablespoons of sesame oil, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of gochujang, and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. Stir thoroughly until all the rice is evenly coated.
  2. Fold in ½ cup of chopped kimchi, 2 tablespoons of sesame seeds, 2 tablespoons of roasted seaweed flakes, and 2 chopped green onions. Mix gently until all ingredients are well combined.
  3. Wet your hands with water and shape a small handful of the mixture into a golf-sized ball. Continue until all the mixture is shaped.
  4. Optionally, sprinkle additional sesame seeds or seaweed flakes on the formed rice balls.
  5. Enjoy your delicious Korean Rice Balls immediately or pack them up for later.

Notes

These Korean Rice Balls are customizable and can be adjusted based on your preferences. Great for meal prep or as a snack on the go!