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Korean Rice Balls Recipe

4.9 from 78 reviews

Korean Rice Balls, or Jumeokbap, are simple and flavorful bite-sized snacks made by seasoning cooked rice with sesame oil and soy sauce, then shaped into compact balls and wrapped or garnished with seaweed. These rice balls are a popular choice for a quick meal or lunchbox addition, offering a perfect balance of savory and nutty flavors with minimal ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked short-grain rice, slightly warm
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 sheet roasted seaweed (gim), cut into small strips or squares

Instructions

  1. Season the Rice: In a large bowl, gently mix the warm cooked rice with the sesame oil and soy sauce until evenly combined. Be careful to not mash the grains; the rice should remain fluffy yet stick together slightly to form balls.
  2. Shape into Balls: With clean, slightly wet hands to prevent sticking, scoop about 2 tablespoons of the seasoned rice and firmly press it into a compact ball. Repeat this process until all the rice is used.
  3. Garnish with Seaweed: Take small strips or squares of roasted seaweed and wrap them around the rice balls or press them on top to garnish. This adds flavor and a nice texture contrast.

Notes

  • Use freshly cooked, slightly warm rice to help the grains stick without being mushy.
  • If preferred, add toasted sesame seeds for extra crunch and aroma.
  • These rice balls are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for a few hours.
  • For a vegan version, ensure the soy sauce is free of animal-derived additives.

Keywords: Korean rice balls, Jumeokbap, rice snack, seaweed rice balls, sesame oil rice