Eggplant Roll Rice Balls: A Perfect Harmony of Tender Eggplant and Savory Soboro
Easy & Delicious Eggplant Roll Rice Balls Recipe, Perfect for Entertaining Guests!
Introducing the ‘Eggplant Roll Rice Balls’ recipe: tender, fragrant eggplant wrapped around seasoned rice and a special homemade soboro topping. Their simple yet elegant appearance makes them ideal for guest gatherings or as a special home-cooked meal. Simply slice the eggplant thinly with a peeler, grill it lightly, then roll it up with rice. The star of these rice balls is the incredibly flavorful ‘homemade soboro’! Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or adjust the sauce to create your own signature eggplant roll rice balls.
Main Ingredients- 1 eggplant
- 1 bowl of freshly cooked rice
- Homemade Soboro topping (refer to the link for the recipe)
Rice Seasoning Ingredients- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 Tbsp sesame oil
- 1/2 Tbsp sesame seeds
Soboro Topping Seasoning Ingredients- 2 Tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 Tbsp minced red chili pepper (seeds removed)
- 1 Tbsp minced green onion
- 1/2 Tbsp sesame oil
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 Tbsp sesame oil
- 1/2 Tbsp sesame seeds
Soboro Topping Seasoning Ingredients- 2 Tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 Tbsp minced red chili pepper (seeds removed)
- 1 Tbsp minced green onion
- 1/2 Tbsp sesame oil
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Wash the eggplant thoroughly, then use a peeler or mandoline to slice it lengthwise into thin strips, about 0.5 cm thick. Slicing thinly will help it roll smoothly.
Step 2
In a bowl, combine the mayonnaise, minced red chili pepper, minced green onion, and sesame oil for the soboro topping. Mix well until evenly blended. (For detailed instructions on making the homemade soboro, please refer to this link: https://blog.naver.com/wjdtj54/221896778043)
Step 3
To the warm, freshly cooked rice, add a pinch of salt, sesame seeds, and 1/2 tablespoon of sesame oil. Gently mix until well combined, ensuring the rice doesn’t become too mushy.
Step 4
Place the thinly sliced eggplant strips in a non-stick pan over low heat. Grill them gently without any added oil. Cooking over high heat can burn the eggplant quickly, so the key is to cook them over low heat until they become translucent and tender.
Step 5
Once lightly grilled on both sides, transfer the eggplant to a plate and let it cool slightly. Avoid overcooking; the eggplant should retain its shape while being tender.
Step 6
Shape the seasoned rice into small, flattened balls using a rice mold or your hands. Aim for bite-sized portions.
Step 7
Now, it’s time to assemble the eggplant rolls. Place a shaped rice ball onto one end of a grilled eggplant strip.
Step 8
Generously spoon some of the prepared soboro topping over the rice ball.
Step 9
Carefully roll the eggplant strip around the rice ball and soboro, tucking in the ends if necessary. These roll rice balls are perfect for a light meal or for sharing. (The author mentioned enjoying these with their sibling!)
Step 10
The beauty of this dish lies in its simple rice seasoning, allowing the savory soboro topping to shine. It makes for a surprisingly delicious and satisfying meal.
Step 11
The bite-sized eggplant roll rice balls are perfect for finger food. Even though the eggplant is grilled without seasoning, the soboro topping provides enough flavor to enjoy them without any additional side dishes. They are also visually appealing.
Step 12
For a complete and healthy meal, serve with a side of mixed greens or a simple salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette. This way, you can enjoy both your rice and greens.
Step 13
These eggplant roll rice balls are also an excellent choice for appetizers or light meal options when entertaining guests. They are sure to impress with their unique presentation and delicious taste!
