Onigiri (Japanese Rice Balls)

May 16, 2023May 16, 20230 15

Savory and satisfying Onigiri (Japanese Rice Balls)

by The Chefin Ricees

Prep

10 min

Cook

25 min

Ready In

35 min

Level

Easy

Rating

Ingredients

	2 cups water
	1 cup jasmine rice
	salt
	1 sheet nori ( dry seaweed ) , cut into 1-inch strips , or as desired ( optional )

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe

Calories

166

Sugar

Fat

0.5g

Onigiri (also known as Omusubi) is a popular Japanese food that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is made by mixing cooked rice with salt, shaping it into small balls or triangles, and adding different fillings such as salted salmon, pickled plum, or grilled eel. Onigiri is often enjoyed as a snack, picnic food, or as part of a bento box. The traditional way to eat Onigiri is to hold it in one hand while taking a bite, making it a convenient and portable food option. Its simple yet satisfying flavors have made it a beloved snack food around the world.

Instructions

1.	Rinse the rice thoroughly in cold water until the water becomes clear, then drain it well.
2.	In a medium saucepan, bring the water and rinsed rice to a boil.
3.	Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and cook for 15 minutes.
4.	After 15 minutes, remove the saucepan from heat and let it rest, covered, for an additional 10 minutes.
5.	Fluff the rice with a fork and season with salt.
6.	Using wet hands, form the rice into small triangular or round shapes.
7.	Place a strip of nori on top of each rice ball, if desired. Serve immediately or wrap in plastic wrap for later enjoyment.

PROS

Onigiri is a simple and customizable dish that can be enjoyed at any time of day.
It is filling, satisfying, and portable, making it an ideal snack or meal to take on the go.
The addition of nori adds a delicious umami flavor to the rice.

CONS

While Onigiri can be a healthy food choice, the addition of certain fillings (such as processed meats or mayonnaise) can make it less nutritious.
It’s important to choose filling options that are fresh, natural, and low in sodium.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Onigiri is a great source of carbohydrates, which provide the body with energy. It’s also a low-fat and low-sugar food option, particularly when made with fresh and healthy fillings like grilled salmon or pickled vegetables. Nori is a great source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and iodine.