Salmon Rice Balls Recipe
Introduction
Salmon Rice Balls are a delightful and simple snack perfect for lunch or a light meal. Combining tender steamed rice with savory salmon flakes and fragrant sesame, these bite-sized treats are easy to make and satisfying.

Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups steamed short-medium grain white rice
- 2 1/2 tbsp salmon flakes
- 1/2 tsp soy sauce
- 1/4 tsp sesame oil
- 1/2 tsp toasted black sesame seeds
Instructions
- Step 1: In a medium bowl, mix the steamed rice, salmon flakes, soy sauce, sesame oil, and toasted black sesame seeds until well combined.
- Step 2: Put on a plastic glove and lightly oil it to prevent sticking. Once the rice mixture is warm enough to handle, scoop about 2 tablespoons onto your palm and gently squeeze to form a ball. Repeat with the remaining rice mixture.
- Step 3: Garnish each rice ball with extra black sesame seeds before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Use freshly steamed rice slightly cooled to warm for easier shaping.
- Replace salmon flakes with cooked tuna or crab for a different flavor.
- Add finely chopped green onions or a dash of chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- Wrap the rice balls with nori sheets for a traditional touch.
Storage
Store the rice balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Reheat gently in the microwave or steam until warmed through. For best texture, consume fresh.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use any type of rice for this recipe?
Short-medium grain white rice works best because it’s sticky enough to hold the shape. Long grain rice is less sticky and may fall apart.
How do I prevent the rice from sticking to my hands?
Wearing a lightly oiled plastic glove helps prevent sticking and makes shaping easier. You can also wet your hands with water if you prefer not to use gloves.
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Salmon Rice Balls Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 rice balls 1x
Description
Salmon Rice Balls are a delightful Japanese-inspired snack featuring tender steamed rice mixed with savory salmon flakes and a hint of soy and sesame flavors. These bite-sized rice balls are perfect for a light lunch, picnic, or appetizer, combining texture and taste in a simple, easy-to-make recipe.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups steamed short-medium grain white rice
- 2 1/2 tbsp salmon flakes
- 1/2 tsp soy sauce
- 1/4 tsp sesame oil
- 1/2 tsp toasted black sesame seeds
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix together the steamed rice, salmon flakes, soy sauce, sesame oil, and toasted black sesame seeds until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Prepare to Shape: Put a plastic glove on one hand and lightly oil the glove to prevent sticking. When the rice mixture is warm enough to handle (not cold), scoop about 2 tablespoons of rice onto your palm.
- Shape Rice Balls: Gently squeeze the rice mixture with your hand to help it stick and form a compact ball. Shape it neatly into a round ball.
- Repeat: Continue forming rice balls with the remaining rice mixture until all is used.
- Garnish and Serve: Optional – sprinkle additional toasted black sesame seeds on top for an appealing finish. Serve immediately or keep covered until ready to enjoy.
Notes
- Use freshly steamed, warm rice for easier shaping and better texture.
- Lightly oiling your hands or glove prevents the rice from sticking and helps form perfect balls.
- Adjust soy sauce according to taste preferences to control saltiness.
- Rice balls can be stored tightly wrapped in the fridge for up to a day; reheat before serving for best texture.
- For added flavor, consider mixing in finely chopped green onions or a touch of wasabi.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (assuming rice is pre-steamed)
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Japanese
Keywords: Salmon rice balls, Japanese snack, Rice recipes, Salmon flakes, Easy rice balls

