Onigiri (Rice Balls with Fillings)
Onigiri, the delightful Japanese rice balls, are a culinary adventure waiting to be explored. These bite-sized treasures are made from sticky short-grain rice and can be filled with a variety of delicious ingredients, from savory tuna mayo to tangy umeboshi. Perfect for picnics, lunchboxes, or a cozy night in, onigiri is not just food; it’s an experience. Easy to make and highly customizable, these rice balls are sure to impress family and friends at any gathering.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups short-grain rice
- 2.5 cups water
- 0.5 tsp salt
- Fillings (1 tbsp per rice ball): tuna mayo, umeboshi, or your choice
- Nori sheets (optional)
Instructions
- Rinse the short-grain rice under cold water until clear. Combine with water in a rice cooker and cook according to instructions.
- Once cooked, transfer the rice to a bowl and mix in salt while still warm.
- Prepare your desired fillings while the rice cools slightly.
- Wet your hands, scoop a handful of rice, create an indentation, add filling, and mold into a triangle or ball shape.
- Optionally wrap with nori strips for added flavor and texture.
- Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 onigiri (100g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 1g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg