Korean Rice Balls (Jumeokbap)

Instructions

• Add the sushi rice to a fine-mesh sieve and rinse under cold water until the water runs clear.
• Add the rice and 3 cups of water to a rice cooker. Cook according to the manufacturer's instructions. Once the rice has finished cooking, let cool until safe to handle.
• Meanwhile, add the ground beef, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, the brown sugar, garlic, green onions, 2 teaspoons sesame oil, and black pepper to a medium bowl and mix well to combine. Refrigerate for about 30 minutes, or until the rice has cooled.
• Heat the canola oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef mixture and cook until the meat is browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes. Remove the pan from the heat.
• In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, furikake, remaining ½ tablespoon soy sauce, remaining ½ teaspoon sesame oil, and ¼ teaspoon kosher salt and mix until well combined.
• Add the cooked ground beef to the rice mixture and gently stir until evenly incorporated. Season with more salt to taste.
• Shape the rice balls: Scoop ¼ cup of the rice mixture into your hands and roll into a ball. Repeat with the remaining rice mixture.
• Garnish the rice balls with sesame seeds and furikake.
• Enjoy!