Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups sushi rice
- 2 1/4 cups water
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 sheets of nori seaweed
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cucumber, sliced
- 1/2 carrot, julienned
- Soy sauce, for serving
Special equipment needed:
- Rice cooker
- Plastic wrap
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Rinse the sushi rice in cold water until the water runs clear.
2. In a rice cooker, combine the rinsed rice and water. Cook according to the manufacturer's instructions.
3. In a small saucepan, combine the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Heat over low heat until the sugar dissolves.
4. Once the rice is cooked, transfer it to a large bowl. Add the vinegar mixture and stir to combine.
5. Cover the bowl with a damp towel and let it cool to room temperature.
6. Cut the nori sheets in half.
7. Wet your hands with water and take a handful of rice. Form it into a ball and place it on a piece of plastic wrap.
8. Flatten the rice ball and place a slice of avocado, cucumber, and carrot in the center.
9. Fold the rice around the filling, shaping it into a ball.
10. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top of the ball and wrap it tightly with the plastic wrap.
11. Repeat with the remaining rice and filling.
12. Chill the rice balls in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
13. Serve with soy sauce for dipping.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 20-30 minutes
Temperature:
- Room temperature
Serving size:
- Makes 8 rice balls
Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 180
- Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 3g
- Fiber: 2g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Sushi rice can be substituted with short-grain rice.
- Rice vinegar can be substituted with apple cider vinegar or white vinegar.
- Avocado, cucumber, and carrot can be substituted with any other vegetables of your choice.
Variations:
- Add cooked shrimp or crab meat to the filling.
- Use different types of seasoning, such as furikake or wasabi.
Tips and tricks:
- Wet your hands with water to prevent the rice from sticking to your hands.
- Use a spoon to help shape the rice balls.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the nori sheets.
Storage instructions:
- Store the rice balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat, remove the plastic wrap and microwave for 30 seconds.
Presentation ideas:
- Arrange the rice balls on a platter and garnish with sliced green onions or cilantro.
Garnishes:
- Sesame seeds, sliced green onions, or cilantro.
Pairings:
- Serve with miso soup or a side salad.
Suggested side dishes:
- Edamame, seaweed salad, or pickled vegetables.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the rice is too sticky, rinse it under cold water and drain well before adding the vinegar mixture.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash your hands and all utensils before handling food.
- Keep the rice balls refrigerated until ready to serve.
Food history:
- Nori rice balls are a popular snack in Japan and are often enjoyed as a quick and easy meal.
Flavor profiles:
- The rice balls are savory and slightly sweet from the vinegar mixture, with a nutty flavor from the sesame seeds.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the rice balls as a snack or as part of a meal.
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Region: Japanese