Rice Balls Recipe – Easy Homemade Guide with Tips

9jakitchenblog
August 28, 2025

Introduction

Rice Balls Recipe is a delicious, versatile dish enjoyed worldwide, from Italian Arancini to Japanese Onigiri, making it perfect for snacks, lunches, or parties.

Rice Balls Recipe is one of the most beloved comfort foods, enjoyed in both Italian and Japanese cuisines. Known as Arancini in Italy and Onigiri in Japan, these savoury delights are made from rice shaped into balls or triangles, often stuffed or seasoned, and then enjoyed as snacks, appetizers, or even main dishes. Their popularity comes from their versatility, portability, and endless filling variations.

Ingredients

2 cups Japanese short-grain rice (sushi rice preferred) or any rice grain in absence of Japanese short-grain rice
2 1/2 cups water
1/2 teaspoon salt
Nori (seaweed sheets), cut into strips
Optional fillings: cooked salmon, pickled plum (umeboshi), tuna mayo, seasoned vegetables, or any protein of choice
Optional sesame seeds for garnish

How to Make Rice Balls

How to Make Rice Balls begins with choosing the right type of rice. For Italian-style Arancini, starchy short-grain rice like Arborio is best, as it sticks together easily. For Japanese Onigiri, medium or short-grain sushi rice is used for its natural stickiness. The rice is cooked until fluffy, then cooled slightly to shape. You can leave them plain, season them with herbs or soy sauce, or fill them with cheese, meats, or vegetables.

The shaping process can be done by hand—wetting your palms lightly with water to prevent sticking—or with a rice mould for uniformity. Italian versions are often breaded and deep-fried for a golden crust, while Japanese Onigiri are typically wrapped in seaweed for easy handling.

Italian Rice Balls (Arancini)

Italian Rice Balls (Arancini) are golden, crispy, and irresistible. Originating from Sicily, Arancini are stuffed with fillings such as mozzarella, peas, and ragù (meat sauce). They are coated in breadcrumbs and fried until crunchy on the outside while remaining creamy inside. These make perfect appetizers or party snacks and pair wonderfully with marinara sauce for dipping.

Japanese Rice Balls (Onigiri)

Japanese Rice Balls (Onigiri) are a staple in Japanese cuisine and a common item in bento boxes. Unlike Arancini, they are not fried but enjoyed fresh. Onigiri are shaped into triangles or rounds, often wrapped in nori (seaweed). Fillings vary widely, from pickled plum (umeboshi) to tuna with mayonnaise or grilled salmon. They are convenient, portable, and healthy, making them an everyday favourite in Japan.

Easy Rice Ball Recipe (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
Combine the rice and water in a rice cooker or saucepan. Cook according to the rice cooker instructions or bring to a boil, then cover and simmer for 18-20 minutes. Let it rest for 10 minutes off the heat.

Step 2: Season and Cool the Rice

Fluff the cooked rice with a rice paddle or fork.
Allow the rice to cool slightly until it is warm but not hot to the touch.

Step 3: Shape the Rice Balls

Fill a small bowl with water and dampen your hands to prevent rice from sticking.
Sprinkle a pinch of salt onto your hands.
Scoop about 1/3 cup of rice into your palm and make an indentation in the centre.
Place your desired filling in the indentation.
Gently mould the rice around the filling, shaping it into a triangle or ball. Press firmly, but do not squeeze too hard.
Wrap a strip of nori around each rice ball. Sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired.

Step 4: Serve

Serve immediately or wrap individually in plastic wrap for later. Rice balls can be enjoyed at room temperature or slightly chilled.

Rice Balls

Tips for Perfect Rice Balls

Use the right rice: Japanese short-grain or sushi rice is ideal for easy shaping thanks to its sticky texture.
Don’t overfill: Too much filling can cause rice balls to fall apart. Use about a teaspoon of filling for each.
Keep hands moist: Always wet your hands before shaping for smooth, non-sticky rice balls.
Try different fillings: Experiment with grilled chicken, spicy tuna, or vegetarian options like pickled vegetables.
Wrap just before serving: Nori can get soggy if left on rice balls for too long. Wrap just before eating for the best texture.

Equipment Needed

Rice cooker or medium saucepan
Large bowl
Rice paddle or wooden spoon
Bowl of water (for shaping)
Clean kitchen towel

Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving – 1 Medium Rice Ball)

Calories: 180
Protein: 4g
Fat: 0.5g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 120mg
Values may vary based on fillings and exact ingredients used.

Conclusion

Rice Balls Recipe is a versatile dish that bridges cultures, from the crunchy Italian Arancini to the soft and savoury Japanese Onigiri. Whether you want to learn how to make rice balls for a snack, lunchbox, or party, this easy rice ball recipe guarantees delicious results. With endless variations and simple preparation, rice balls are a timeless favourite worldwide.