Kimchi Rice Balls with Gooey Mozzarella
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Recipe Intro From takestwoeggs
These crispy, cheesy kimchi rice balls bring together the bold flavors of kimchi, gochujang, and U.S.-grown short-grain sushi rice. Perfectly crispy on the outside and gooey with mozzarella on the inside, these rice balls are a quick and delicious way to enjoy Korean-inspired flavors. Try them as a snack, appetizer, or side dish to liven up your next meal!
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Recipe Card
ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups U.S.-grown short-grain sushi rice, uncooked
- 2 cups water
- 1 teaspoon gochujang
- 1 1/2 teaspoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon fish sauce
- 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil, plus more for brushing
- 1 1/2 cups kimchi, finely chopped
- 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Method
Step 1
Thoroughly rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Add the rice and 2 cups of water to a rice cooker and cook according to the manufacturer's instructions. Transfer the cooked rice to a large mixing bowl and let it cool slightly.
Step 2
In a small bowl, combine the gochujang, brown sugar, fish sauce, dark soy sauce, and sesame oil. Stir until the ingredients are fully blended.
Step 3
In a medium skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped kimchi and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 3 minutes, until most of the moisture evaporates.
Step 4
Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet with the kimchi, stirring until the sauce thickens, about 30 seconds. Remove from heat.
Step 5
Add the cooked kimchi mixture to the bowl of rice, stirring until the rice is evenly coated.
Step 6
Fill about two-thirds of an onigiri mold with the kimchi rice mixture. Create a small indentation in the center and add a bit of shredded mozzarella. Cover with more rice, then press down with the mold lid to form a firm triangular shape.
Step 7
Lightly brush each rice ball with sesame oil. Place them in an air fryer at 400°F for 18–20 minutes, or until crispy. If using an oven, bake on a parchment-lined sheet at the same temperature until crispy.
Step 8
Serve warm, and enjoy!