Kimchi Rice Balls — A Delicious Valentine’s Treat Full of Flavor and Love
I made these tasty kimchi rice balls for him on Valentine’s Day, and everyone who’s tried them has fallen in love with kimchi all over again!
🥢 Ingredients (Makes about 24 balls — 5 servings)
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Kimchi (including juice) | 150 g |
| Honey | 2 teaspoons |
| Soy sauce | 1 teaspoon |
| Toasted sesame oil | 1 teaspoon |
| Cooked sushi rice | 400 g (freshly cooked) |
| Green onions (finely chopped) | 2 |
| Black and white sesame seed mix | 2 tablespoons |
| Oil (for sautéing) | 1 tablespoon |
🔪 Instructions
- Toast the sesame seeds:
In a dry pan, gently toast the sesame seeds over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the white seeds just start to brown. Be careful not to burn them. - Prepare kimchi mix:
Pulse kimchi and its juice in a food processor or with a hand blender until finely chopped. Sauté the kimchi in the hot oil for 3 minutes. Stir in honey, toasted sesame oil, and soy sauce; cook for 30 seconds more. Remove from heat. - Combine with rice:
Immediately add freshly cooked sushi rice (do not use refrigerated rice), chopped green onions, and the toasted sesame seeds. Mix thoroughly until everything is evenly incorporated. Let the mixture cool so it’s easier to handle. - Shape the balls:
Wearing plastic gloves helps due to the stickiness of sushi rice, but wet hands also work. Take a small handful of rice mixture and press firmly to shape into balls. Roll gently between your palms to finish. - Serve & store:
These rice balls are delicious served immediately but also keep well refrigerated for later enjoyment.
🍽 Serving Suggestions
- Serve with soy sauce or spicy mayo for dipping.
- Great as a snack, appetizer, or part of a bento box.
- Perfect for a flavorful Valentine’s meal or casual gathering.
🧾 Final Thoughts
These kimchi rice balls are a fun, flavorful way to enjoy sushi rice and tangy kimchi combined with a hint of sweetness and toasted sesame aroma. Perfect for sharing with loved ones!