Basic Onigiri

May 27, 2023May 27, 20230 2

Easy Basic Onigiri Recipe

by The Chefin Japanese

Prep

5 min

Cook

20 min

Ready In

25 min

Level

Very Easy

Rating

Ingredients

	1 medium grain rice ( Korean or Japanese )
	water
	salt
	sushi nori , 1 inch by 5 inch strips ( seaweed laver ) ( optional )
	Chinese five spice powder ( optional )
	umeboshi ( Japanese Pickled Plums ) ( optional )
	toasted sesame seeds ( optional )
	canned tuna ( optional ) or smoked salmon ( optional )

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe

Calories

220

Sugar

Fat

Onigiri is a popular dish in Japan, and is a great snack or addition to a meal. This dish is traditionally made using hands, and is a great way to get children involved in cooking. The combination of rice and various fillings make it a hearty, satisfying meal that can be eaten on the go. Onigiri is a popular food in Japanese convenience stores, where it is commonly eaten as a quick lunch. The dish has gained popularity in other parts of the world, and is enjoyed for its simplicity and delicious taste.

Instructions

1.	Rinse rice in cold water and drain. Repeat this process 2-3 times until the water runs clear.
2.	Combine rice and water in a pot, and bring to a boil.
3.	Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 15-20 minutes until rice is cooked.
4.	Let the rice stand, covered, for an additional 10-15 minutes to absorb any moisture.
5.	Wet your hands, and sprinkle some salt on them. Roll the rice, forming a small ball.
6.	Press the center of the ball with your finger, and insert the umeboshi or tuna into the center.
7.	Close the rice around the filling, and shape it into a triangle or a ball.
8.	Place the toasted seaweed strip around the onigiri if desired.

PROS

Easy to make, and a great addition to school or work lunches.

The onigiri can be made with various fillings like umeboshi, tuna, or smoked salmon.

The seaweed strips add an extra burst of flavor to the onigiri.

CONS

Rice can be high in carbohydrates, which should be taken into consideration when planning meals.

Onigiri should be consumed within 24 hours, as they can spoil easily when kept in warm temperatures.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Onigiri is a Japanese staple that is enjoyed for its taste as well as its versatility.
The fillings that can be used for onigiri, such as umeboshi, tuna, or salmon, are excellent sources of protein and healthy fats.