Bento Box Sushi Balls
This recipe shows you how to make simple sushi balls perfect for packing in a bento box. Arrange them neatly with your favorite sides for a fresh, portable meal.
Equipment
- Rice cooker or pot
- Large mixing bowl
- Bento box
Ingredients
For the Sushi Rice
- 2 cups short-grain sushi rice uncooked
- 2 cups water
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
For the Sushi Balls
- 1 cup cooked salmon or tuna flaked
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise Japanese style preferred
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- 1/4 cup sesame seeds toasted, for coating
Instructions
- Cook the sushi rice according to package directions or in a rice cooker using 2 cups of water.
- While the rice cooks, mix the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt in a small bowl until dissolved. This is your sushi seasoning.
- Once the rice is done, transfer it to a large bowl. Gently fold in the sushi seasoning until the rice is evenly coated. Let it cool slightly until it is warm, not hot.
- In a separate small bowl, mix the flaked fish, mayonnaise, and soy sauce until combined.
- Wet your hands slightly. Take about two tablespoons of the seasoned rice and flatten it in your palm. Place a small spoonful of the fish mixture in the center.
- Carefully fold the rice around the filling and gently roll it into a tight ball shape. Repeat until all the rice and filling are used.
- Roll the finished sushi balls in the toasted sesame seeds to coat them lightly.
- Arrange the sushi balls neatly in your bento box alongside cut vegetables, fruit, or small portions of seaweed salad.
Notes
When testing bento recipes, I found myself carefully arranging sushi balls into a box and it reminded me how much joy there is in creating meals that look beautiful and taste delicious.