Delicious Korean Rice Balls Recipe

Looking for a crave-worthy, Easy 10-min snack that explodes with flavor and comes together in practically no time? Korean Rice Balls (Jumeokbap) are the answer you didn’t know you needed! Soft, sticky rice mixed with creamy tuna and tangy mayo, all wrapped in crunchy seasoned seaweed—each bite is savoury, satisfying, and totally fun to eat. No fancy kitchen skills required—just a handful of staple ingredients and one bowl. Whether you need a speedy lunch, a fun party snack, or a quick bite for the kids, this Easy 10-min recipe will always come through for you.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Easy 10-min Korean Rice Balls is in their simplicity. Each ingredient plays a distinct role: the rice gives the foundation, tuna adds protein-rich heft, sesame oil and seeds bring warmth and nuttiness, mayo ties everything together, and seasoned seaweed delivers that essential Korean flair.

• Cooked Short Grain Rice: The sticky texture of short grain rice is ideal for shaping these delightful balls and holding everything together.
• Canned Tuna: Make sure it’s well drained for perfect flakes and a savory punch; it’s the protein that makes these balls satisfying.
• Japanese Mayo (Kewpie or regular): For an extra creamy, subtly tangy element that melds beautifully with the rice and tuna.
• Salt: Just a touch balances flavors and brings out the natural taste of the rice and tuna.
• Sesame Oil: Adds a unique, roasted aroma and flavor that’s essential in Korean cooking.
• Sesame Seeds: A sprinkle adds a nutty crunch and a touch of visual flair.
• Korean Seasoned Seaweed Flakes: These provide salty, umami-rich flavor and an irresistibly crisp exterior.

How to Make Delicious Korean Rice Balls Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

If you’re starting with leftover rice, warm it up in the microwave—covered—to revive its texture, then let it cool just enough to handle. With fresh, steaming rice, similar rules apply: allow it to cool slightly before mixing; you want the grains soft but not hot.

Step 2: Mix the Tuna Base

In a large bowl, combine the tuna, sesame oil, sesame seeds, Japanese mayo, and salt. Use a fork to break up the tuna and ensure the ingredients are evenly blended. You’ll instantly notice the appetizing aroma from the sesame oil—it sets the stage for those signature Easy 10-min flavors.

Step 3: Add the Rice

Introduce the cooked rice into the tuna mixture and gently fold everything together. Make sure each grain is coated and there are no dry clumps left. This step is where the flavors marry, and the mixture becomes delightfully sticky and easy to shape—just right for your Easy 10-min rice balls.

Step 4: Shape the Rice Balls

Set up a small bowl of water to keep nearby. Wet your clean hands (or use gloves if you prefer) to prevent sticking, then grab about 2 tablespoons of the mixture for each ball. Squeeze gently, then roll between your palms until you have a sphere about the size of a golf ball. Repeat until all the mixture is used, aiming for nine perfectly plump rice balls.

Step 5: Coat with Seasoned Seaweed

Pour the seasoned seaweed flakes into a shallow dish. Roll each rice ball in the flakes, gently pressing so the pieces adhere and form a flavorful, textured crust. The Easy 10-min transformation is complete—serve at room temperature and watch them vanish!

How to Serve Delicious Korean Rice Balls Recipe

Garnishes

A light sprinkle of extra sesame seeds or a drizzle of sesame oil on top brings extra fragrance and a pretty finish. For a pop of color, finely slice some green onions or sprinkle on a pinch of gochugaru chili flakes.

Side Dishes

Pair your Easy 10-min Korean Rice Balls with quick pickled cucumbers, a steaming bowl of miso soup, or kimchi for a balanced Korean-inspired meal that hits all the right notes—salty, tangy, and fresh.

Creative Ways to Present

Pack them into lunchboxes for kids (or adults!) alongside veggie sticks, serve on a platter as bite-sized party snacks, or tuck them into a bento box with fruit and salad. Their size and portability make them irresistible in any setting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (unlikely!), store Easy 10-min rice balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The seaweed may soften, but the balls will stay satisfyingly chewy for up to two days.

Freezing

To freeze, skip the seaweed coating and wrap each rice ball tightly in plastic wrap. When you’re ready to enjoy, allow them to come to room temperature and then roll in fresh seaweed flakes for that crisp bite.

Reheating

Reheat rice balls in the microwave for 20-30 seconds until just warmed through. Add the seaweed after reheating to maintain the crunch and full Easy 10-min experience.

FAQs

Can I use white rice instead of short grain?

Short grain rice is best for Easy 10-min Korean Rice Balls because of its sticky texture, but you can use other types of rice in a pinch. Just make sure it’s slightly sticky, or the balls might not hold their shape.

Is canned salmon or chicken a good substitute for tuna?

Absolutely! Canned salmon or shredded rotisserie chicken both make tasty substitutes, lending their own unique flavors while keeping the process quick and Easy 10-min friendly.

Will regular mayo work if I don’t have Kewpie?

Regular mayo will do just fine if Kewpie isn’t available. The final flavor will be slightly less tangy, but still delicious and creamy for your Easy 10-min rice balls.

How do I make these rice balls spicy?

Add a teaspoon of gochujang (Korean red pepper paste) or a few dashes of sriracha to the tuna mixture. You can also add chopped kimchi for more oomph and an extra nod to Korean flavor.

Can I prepare Easy 10-min rice balls in advance?

You can shape the rice balls ahead of time and store them (without the seaweed) in the fridge. Add the seaweed right before serving for the freshest texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been craving something fast, quirky, and totally moreish, these Easy 10-min Korean Rice Balls are the perfect way to get your fix. They’re fun to make, endlessly customizable, and always a hit at the table—or right from the fridge! Give this Easy 10-min a try and discover how effortless and delightful homemade Korean snacks can be.

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