Description
Onigiri (Japanese Rice Balls) are delicious and easy to make at home, perfect for a snack or meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups sushi rice
- 2 1/2 cups water
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Nori (seaweed sheets), cut into strips
- Filling options:
- 1/2 cup cooked salmon, flaked
- 1/2 cup pickled plum (umeboshi), pitted and chopped
- 1/2 cup tuna salad (canned tuna mixed with mayonnaise)
- 1/2 cup cooked and seasoned vegetables (like edamame or carrots)
Instructions
- Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice and water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed.
- Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 10 minutes.
- In a small bowl, mix the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until dissolved.
- Gently fold this mixture into the cooked rice, being careful not to mash the grains. Allow the rice to cool to a manageable temperature.
- Once the rice is cool enough to handle, wet your hands with water to prevent sticking.
- Take a handful of rice (about 1/3 cup) and flatten it slightly in your palm.
- Place a teaspoon of your chosen filling in the center, then mold the rice around the filling to form a triangle or oval shape.
- Wrap a strip of nori around the base of each rice ball or serve it on the side.
- Repeat with the remaining rice and fillings.
- Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Notes
- For a fun twist, try adding sesame seeds or furikake (Japanese rice seasoning) to the rice mixture for extra flavor.
- You can also experiment with different fillings, such as grilled chicken, avocado, or even cheese for a fusion version.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Japanese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 onigiri
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg