Sushi Balls
If you’re looking for a fun and tasty dish to impress your guests or simply indulge in a delicious meal, sushi balls are the way to go. These bite-sized delights are not only easy to make but also bursting with flavor that will leave you craving for more. In my kitchen, sushi balls have become a go-to dish for any occasion, and I can’t wait to share this recipe with you.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- Great flavors: The combination of sushi rice, smoked salmon, cucumber, cream cheese, and sesame seeds creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
- Quick prep time: With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up these sushi balls in no time.
- Perfect for meal prep: Make a batch of sushi balls ahead of time for a convenient and delicious meal or snack throughout the week.
Ingredient Notes:
- Sushi Rice Cooked and Seasoned: The base of the sushi balls, sticky sushi rice adds a chewy texture and helps hold the ingredients together.
- Smoked Salmon: Adds a savory and smoky flavor to the dish. You can also use cooked shrimp or crab as a substitute.
- Cucumber: Provides a refreshing crunch to the sushi balls. Feel free to swap it with avocado or pickled vegetables for a different twist.
- Cream Cheese: Adds a creamy and tangy element to the filling. For a dairy-free option, use tofu cream cheese.
- Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle on top for a nutty flavor and crunchy texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix the cooked sushi rice with chopped smoked salmon, diced cucumber, and cubed cream cheese.
- Shape the mixture into small balls and roll them in sesame seeds.
- Serve the sushi balls chilled and enjoy!
Helpful Tips:
- Use a small ice cream scoop or wet hands to shape the sushi balls for a neater presentation.
- Experiment with different fillings like tuna, avocado, or pickled ginger for variety.
- Store leftover sushi balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or enjoy cold.
Expert Tips for the Best Results:
- Use high-quality sushi rice for the best texture and flavor.
- Chill the sushi rice before shaping the balls to make it easier to work with.
- Customize the seasoning of the sushi rice with rice vinegar, sugar, and salt for an authentic sushi taste.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the sushi balls with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger for a complete sushi experience. Pair them with a side of miso soup and a refreshing green tea for a satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips:
To store leftover sushi balls, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. Reheat gently in the microwave or enjoy cold for a quick and delicious snack.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I make sushi balls ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the sushi balls in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
- Can I freeze sushi balls? It is not recommended to freeze sushi balls as the texture may become mushy when thawed.
- Can I use raw fish in sushi balls? It is best to use cooked or smoked fish for sushi balls to ensure food safety.
- How long will sushi balls last in the refrigerator? Sushi balls can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days for the best quality.
Conclusion:
Sushi balls are a delightful and easy-to-make dish that is sure to impress your taste buds. Try this recipe for a flavorful and fun meal that will leave you craving more. Don’t forget to share your feedback and enjoy the deliciousness of homemade sushi balls!
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Sushi Balls
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins
- Total Time: 15 mins
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: Japanese
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Sushi Balls are a fun twist on traditional sushi rolls, combining sushi rice, smoked salmon, cucumber, and cream cheese into bite-sized balls. They are perfect for parties or as a unique appetizer for sushi lovers.
Ingredients
- 2 Cups Sushi Rice Cooked and Seasoned
- 100 grams Smoked Salmon Chopped
- ½ cup Cucumber Deseeded and finely diced
- 100 grams Cream Cheese Cubed
- Sesame Seeds
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Cook and season sushi rice. Chop smoked salmon, dice cucumber, and cube cream cheese.
- Form Sushi Balls: Take a small amount of rice, flatten it in your palm, and add a piece of smoked salmon, cucumber, and cream cheese. Shape into balls.
- Finish: Roll the sushi balls in sesame seeds for garnish.
Notes
- You can add other fillings like avocado, crab meat, or vegetables to customize the sushi balls.
- Use a plastic wrap to help shape the rice into balls without sticking to your hands.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
Keywords: Sushi, Appetizer, Party food, Japanese cuisine