Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Korean rice balls Jumeokbap with seaweed and sesame on a plate

Korean Rice Balls (Jumeokbap)


  • Author: Sarah
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 1012 rice balls 1x

Description

These delightful Korean rice balls, or Jumeokbap, are a wonderfully simple and satisfying treat perfect for any occasion. Seasoned rice is molded into perfect little spheres, making for a healthy and portable snack or a light lunch.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups freshly cooked short-grain rice (slightly cooled but still warm)
  • 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1 tablespoon roasted seaweed (gim), crumbled
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
  • Optional add-ins:
  • 1/4 cup canned tuna, drained (for tuna version)
  • 1 teaspoon gochujang or Korean chili flakes (for spicy version)
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped carrots or cucumbers (for vegan version)

Instructions

  1. Start with warm, freshly cooked short-grain rice and let it cool slightly so it’s warm and pliable.
  2. Gently mix rice with toasted sesame oil and sea salt until evenly coated.
  3. Add crumbled roasted seaweed and toasted sesame seeds, folding gently to combine.
  4. If desired, mix in tuna, gochujang, or finely chopped vegetables for your preferred variation.
  5. Lightly wet your hands to prevent sticking, scoop about 2 tablespoons of rice, and roll into compact balls.
  6. Repeat with remaining rice mixture to make about 10–12 rice balls.
  7. Serve immediately or chill for a quick lunch or snack.

Notes

Keep your hands damp while shaping to prevent rice from sticking. Store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours and enjoy at room temperature or slightly chilled.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Snack
  • Method: No Cook
  • Cuisine: Korean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 rice ball
  • Calories: 110
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fat: 3g
  • Saturated Fat: 0.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Korean rice balls, Jumeokbap, sesame, seaweed, easy lunch, healthy snack