Simple Onigiri

Simple Onigiri Recipe from Japan - Only a Few Ingredients Needed!

Region / culture: Japan | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Onigiri, also known as Japanese rice balls, are a popular and convenient snack in Japan. These simple yet delicious treats are made by shaping sticky rice into a ball or triangle and often filled with various ingredients such as pickled fish or vegetables. Onigiri are perfect for on-the-go meals or as a quick and easy snack.

History

Onigiri has been a staple in Japanese cuisine for centuries. Originally, onigiri was made with salted rice to preserve it for long periods of time. Over time, the recipe evolved to include various fillings and seasonings, making it a versatile and delicious dish enjoyed by many.

Ingredients

Cooked Sticky rice (regular, sushi, jasmine, or brown rice can be used. brown rice requires extra cooking time and water to achieve a sticky texture.)
nori (a flat, versatile seaweed, often available at Asian or specialty markets)
Fillings (such as pickled plum, fish, etc)

How to prepare

Prepare the rice of your choice following the instructions on the package. Ensure that the rice is sticky and dense.
Allow the rice to cool down. Once the rice has cooled enough to handle, take out the molds (if using) and seaweed.
Cut the seaweed into the desired shapes. Mold the rice and then place it on the seaweed.

Variations

Try different fillings such as grilled salmon, pickled plum, or seasoned tofu.
Experiment with different seasonings such as furikake or sesame seeds for added flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Use sticky rice to achieve the perfect texture for onigiri.

- Wet your hands with water to prevent the rice from sticking to your hands while shaping the onigiri.

- Experiment with different fillings and seasonings to create unique flavor combinations.

Serving Suggestions

Serve onigiri as a snack, appetizer, or light meal. Pair with miso soup and a side of pickled vegetables for a traditional Japanese meal.

Cooking Techniques

Use a rice mold to shape the onigiri for a uniform and professional look.

- Wet your hands with water to prevent the rice from sticking while shaping the onigiri.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use brown rice or quinoa for a healthier alternative to white rice.

- Substitute the seaweed with lettuce or cabbage leaves for a different texture.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the rice and fillings ahead of time and assemble the onigiri just before serving to ensure freshness.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the onigiri on a platter and garnish with sesame seeds or nori strips for a decorative touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair onigiri with green tea or sake for a traditional Japanese meal experience.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover onigiri in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, wrap the onigiri in a damp paper towel and microwave for 30 seconds.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

The calorie content of onigiri will vary depending on the size and fillings used. On average, a single onigiri can range from 100-200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Onigiri is a carbohydrate-rich dish, with the main ingredient being sticky rice. Carbohydrates provide energy for the body and are essential for overall health and well-being.

Fats

The amount of fat in onigiri will vary depending on the fillings used. Opt for healthier fillings such as pickled vegetables or lean proteins to keep the fat content low.

Proteins

Protein content in onigiri will also depend on the fillings used. Adding protein-rich ingredients such as fish or tofu can increase the protein content of the dish.

Vitamins and minerals

Onigiri can be a good source of vitamins and minerals depending on the fillings used. Vegetables, seaweed, and fish are all nutrient-rich ingredients that can add essential vitamins and minerals to the dish.

Alergens

Onigiri may contain allergens such as fish, soy, or gluten depending on the fillings and seasonings used. Be sure to check the ingredients carefully if you have any food allergies.

Summary

Onigiri is a delicious and versatile dish that can be customized to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. With the right ingredients and fillings, onigiri can be a nutritious and satisfying snack or meal option.

Summary

Onigiri is a simple and delicious Japanese snack that can be enjoyed on its own or as part of a meal. With a few basic ingredients and some creativity, you can create your own unique variations of this classic dish. Enjoy the convenience and flavor of homemade onigiri today!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a cherished one. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in the countryside of Japan. My mother had passed down her love for cooking to me, and I was always eager to learn new recipes and techniques.

One day, while wandering through the local market, I stumbled upon a small stand run by an elderly woman. She was selling a variety of traditional Japanese snacks and treats, one of which caught my eye – onigiri. These simple rice balls intrigued me, and I knew I had to learn how to make them.

I approached the woman and asked her about the recipe for onigiri. She smiled warmly and invited me to watch as she prepared a batch. I observed closely as she cooked the rice, seasoned it with a mixture of salt and sesame seeds, and molded it into small triangular shapes. She then wrapped the onigiri in strips of nori seaweed, creating a delicious and satisfying snack.

I thanked the woman for her guidance and vowed to recreate her recipe at home. I rushed back to our small kitchen, eager to try my hand at making onigiri for the first time. I followed the steps I had witnessed at the market, carefully shaping the rice into triangles and wrapping them in nori.

The first bite of my homemade onigiri brought a rush of memories flooding back – the sights and sounds of the market, the warm smile of the elderly woman, and the satisfaction of creating something delicious with my own hands. From that moment on, onigiri became a staple in our household, a simple yet comforting dish that always brought a sense of joy and nostalgia.

Over the years, I have continued to perfect my recipe for onigiri, adding different fillings and seasonings to create a variety of flavors. I have shared this beloved snack with friends and family, passing down the tradition of making onigiri to future generations.

To this day, whenever I prepare a batch of onigiri, I am transported back to that fateful day at the market, where I first discovered the simple yet profound joy of cooking. The recipe for onigiri holds a special place in my heart, a reminder of the power of food to connect us to our past and bring us together in the present.