15 Japanese Food Onigiri Recipe Try These Culinary Delights!
Published on: Mar 26, 2024
Onigiri, a traditional Japanese food, has become increasingly popular all around the world in recent years. This simple yet delicious rice ball snack is not only convenient and easy to make, but it also offers a variety of flavors and fillings to satisfy any taste buds. In this article, we will guide you through the steps of making your own onigiri at home, using authentic Japanese techniques and ingredients. From the basic recipe to creative variations, get ready to explore the world of onigiri and add it to your list of go-to snacks!
Onigiri, also known as Japanese rice balls, is a popular snack or meal in Japan. It is made by shaping cooked rice into a triangle, ball, or cylinder and is typically filled with various ingredients such as fish, meat, or vegetables. Onigiri can be found in convenience stores, restaurants, and even made at home. It's a versatile and delicious dish that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.
2of 20
Salmon and Black Sesame Onigiri (Japanese Rice Balls)
Main Ingredients: Smoked Salmon, Short Grain Rice, Black Sesame Seeds
One of the most popular and flavorful onigiri variations is salmon and black sesame. This combination gives the rice balls a rich and nutty taste that is sure to satisfy your taste buds. To make this onigiri, cook white rice and mix in chunks of cooked salmon and black sesame seeds. Shape the rice into triangles and wrap them in seaweed for a traditional touch. These onigiri are perfect for a quick and tasty meal on the go.
3of 20
Yaki Onigiri
Main Ingredients: Brown Rice, White Rice, Soy Sauce
Yaki onigiri is a grilled version of the traditional Japanese rice balls. The rice is shaped into balls or triangles and then grilled until crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Yaki onigiri can be made with a variety of fillings such as tuna, salmon, or even cheese. It's a popular dish for outdoor picnics or barbecues and is often served with a side of soy sauce for dipping.
Onigiri is a staple food in Japan and is loved by many for its convenience and delicious taste. It's a popular lunch option for students, office workers, and anyone looking for a quick and easy meal. Onigiri can be made with a variety of fillings, making it a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many different ways.
5of 20
Salmon Onigiri (Japanese Rice Balls)
Main Ingredients: Salmon, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Sushi Rice, Sesame
Salmon onigiri is a classic variation of the Japanese rice balls. It's made by mixing chunks of cooked salmon with rice and shaping it into triangles or balls. The salmon adds a savory and slightly salty flavor to the rice, making it a perfect filling for onigiri. Salmon onigiri is a popular choice for lunchboxes and can be enjoyed warm or cold.
6of 20
How To Make Onigiri (Japanese rice balls)
Main Ingredients: White Rice, Sushi Nori, Tuna Packed In Oil, Mayonnaise
Making onigiri at home is easy and fun. To make traditional onigiri, cook white rice and mix in your desired filling. You can get creative and use ingredients such as teriyaki chicken, tuna salad, or even pickled vegetables. Wet your hands with water to prevent the rice from sticking and shape it into a ball or triangle. For extra flavor and texture, you can also wrap the onigiri in seaweed or coat it in panko breadcrumbs and fry it until crispy. It's a simple and tasty dish that can be customized to your liking.
7of 20
Yaki Onigiri (Japanese Rice Balls) | Vegan
Main Ingredients: Short Grain Rice, Water, Sushi Rice, Rice Vinegar
If you're looking for a vegan option, yaki onigiri can easily be made without any animal products. Simply skip the traditional fillings and use ingredients such as tofu, mushrooms, or tempura vegetables. You can also add some vegan cheese for a creamy and indulgent filling. Grilling the onigiri will give it a crispy texture and add a smoky flavor that pairs well with the plant-based fillings.
8of 20
How To Make Onigiri (Japanese rice balls)
Main Ingredients: Short Grain Rice, Water, Nori, Veggie, Seasoning
Onigiri is a versatile dish that can be made in many different ways. To make it at home, you can experiment with various fillings and shapes. You can also use different types of rice, such as brown rice or sushi rice, to add different textures and flavors. Onigiri can be enjoyed as a snack, side dish, or main meal, making it a great addition to any meal plan.
Onigiri is a staple food in Japanese cuisine and has been enjoyed for centuries. It's a simple and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed on its own or as part of a larger meal. In Japanese culture, onigiri is often seen as a symbol of love and care, as it is commonly made by mothers and grandmothers for their loved ones.
Main Ingredients: Sticky Rice, Water, Salt, Brown Rice Vinegar, Peanut
This unique and flavorful onigiri variation is sure to impress your taste buds. It's made with a filling of peanut butter and vegan parmesan cheese and coated in panko breadcrumbs before being grilled until crispy. This onigiri is perfect for those who love a combination of sweet and savory flavors and is a great option for a quick and tasty meal.
11of 20
Japanese Rice Balls Onigiri
Main Ingredients: Cooked Rice, Umeboshi, Bonito Flakes, Soy Sauce, Mirin
Onigiri is the perfect on-the-go snack or meal in Japan. In addition to being delicious and convenient, it's also a budget-friendly option, as you can make a large batch at once. It's also a great way to use up leftover rice and ingredients you have on hand. You can even involve your family or friends and have a fun onigiri-making party.
12of 20
Vegan Onigiri - Japanese Stuffed Rice Balls
Main Ingredients: Sushi Rice, Salt, Peanut Butter, Roasted Bell Pepper
For a creative and flavorful vegan option, try making stuffed onigiri. Instead of mixing the filling with the rice, stuff the rice balls with your desired ingredients. You can use a variety of fillings, such as marinated tofu, avocado, or even vegan bacon. This onigiri is perfect for those who prefer a heartier and more filling option.
Onigiri is a classic Japanese dish that has stood the test of time. It's a dish that has been enjoyed by generations and will continue to be loved by many for years to come. Its simplicity, versatility, and delicious taste make it a must-try for anyone interested in Japanese cuisine.
14of 20
Yaki Onigiri (Grilled Rice Balls)
Main Ingredients: Short Grain Rice, Salt, Soy Sauce, Mirin, Ground Black
Yaki onigiri is a popular street food in Japan. It's often sold at festivals and outdoor events and is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The crispy exterior and soft interior make it a satisfying and tasty treat. You can find yaki onigiri with various fillings such as spicy cod roe, grilled eel, or even triple cheese.
15of 20
Onigiri (rice Balls)
Main Ingredients: Rice, Nori Seaweed, Salt, Pickled Plum, Bonito Flakes
In Japan, onigiri is often referred to as "rice balls" due to its shape and form. It's a simple and portable meal that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. The possibilities for fillings and flavors are endless, making it a dish that you can never get bored of. Whether you're a fan of traditional flavors or enjoy experimenting with new combinations, there's an onigiri out there for everyone.
Main Ingredients: Japanese Rice, Brown Rice, White Sesame Seeds, Miso
Miso is a staple ingredient in Japanese cuisine and is often used to flavor dishes such as soups and marinades. For a flavorful twist on traditional yaki onigiri, try making miso yaki onigiri. The miso adds a rich and savory taste to the rice balls and pairs well with fillings such as grilled chicken or tofu. It's a delicious and easy way to add some variety to your onigiri game.
17of 20
Spicy Tuna Onigiri
Main Ingredients: Rice, Cold Water, Kosher Salt, Albacore Tuna
If you're a fan of spicy food, you'll love this variation of onigiri. It's made with a filling of canned tuna mixed with spicy mayo and wrapped in seaweed. The combination of the spicy mayo and savory tuna creates a burst of flavor in every bite. This onigiri is perfect for those who enjoy a little kick in their food.
18of 20
Easy Onigiri (Japanese Rice Balls)
Main Ingredients: Sushi Rice, Water, Furikake Rice Seasoning, Salt
Onigiri may seem intimidating to make, but it's actually quite simple and easy. You don't need any fancy equipment or ingredients to make delicious onigiri at home. All you need is cooked rice, your desired filling, and some seaweed or panko breadcrumbs for added flavor and texture. Onigiri is a great option for those who are short on time or want a quick and tasty meal.
19of 20
Japanese Crispy Fried Rice Balls with Tuna & Orange...
Main Ingredients: Sushi Rice, Spring Onions, Fresh Cilantro, Ginger
For a fun and creative twist on traditional onigiri, try making crispy fried rice balls. This variation is made by frying onigiri coated in a mixture of rice flour, panko breadcrumbs, and orange juice. The orange juice adds a tangy and refreshing taste to the rice balls, making it a perfect summer snack or appetizer.
20of 20
Hibachi-Style Japanese Fried Rice
Main Ingredients: Soy Sauce, Apple Cider Vinegar, Maple Syrup, Liquid
Another popular dish in Japanese cuisine is hibachi-style fried rice. It's typically made with vegetables, meat, and soy sauce and is often served as a side dish at hibachi restaurants. To add a unique touch to this dish, try incorporating some onigiri into the fried rice. The combination of the crispy rice balls and savory fried rice is a match made in heaven.
Ingredients for Basic Onigiri
Rice
The main ingredient of onigiri is Japanese short-grain rice, which is stickier and more glutinous compared to other types of rice. This type of rice is essential in creating the perfect texture for onigiri.
Fillings
Umeboshi, or pickled plum, is a classic and popular filling for onigiri. Other traditional fillings include grilled salmon, tuna mayo, and kombu, a type of seaweed. However, feel free to get creative and use your favorite ingredients to create your own unique onigiri.
Nori
Nori, or seaweed sheets, are used to wrap the onigiri and give it a distinctive flavor. You can either use full sheets or cut them into strips to decorate your onigiri.
Furikake
Furikake is a Japanese seasoning made of dried fish, sesame seeds, and other ingredients. It adds extra flavor and crunch to the onigiri and is a must-have for any onigiri lover.
Steps to Make Onigiri
Step 1: Cook the Rice
For the best results, use a rice cooker to cook the Japanese short-grain rice. Once cooked, let it cool to room temperature before making the onigiri.
Step 2: Prepare the Fillings
If using umeboshi, remove the pits and cut them into small pieces. For other fillings, make sure they are cooked and cooled before using them in the onigiri.
Step 3: Wet your Hands
To prevent the rice from sticking to your hands, wet them with water or vinegar before shaping the onigiri.
Step 4: Shape the Onigiri
Take a handful of rice and shape it into a triangle, ball, or cylinder. Make a small indentation in the middle and fill it with your chosen filling. Cover the filling with more rice and shape it into a ball.
Step 5: Wrap with Nori
Wrap the onigiri with a full sheet of nori or use strips to create a decorative pattern.
Step 6: Sprinkle with Furikake
Sprinkle some furikake on top of the onigiri for extra flavor and crunch.
Variations of Onigiri
Onigirazu
Onigirazu is a larger and square-shaped onigiri that is wrapped in a sheet of nori and resembles a sandwich. It is perfect for a filling and satisfying meal.
Yaki Onigiri
Yaki Onigiri is a grilled version of onigiri, where the rice balls are brushed with soy sauce and grilled until crispy on the outside. It is a popular street food in Japan.
Temari Onigiri
Temari Onigiri is a smaller and bite-sized version of onigiri, perfect for parties or gatherings. It is also a great way to use up leftover ingredients.
In Conclusion
Making onigiri at home is not only easy but also a fun and creative way to explore the world of Japanese cuisine. With this basic recipe and variations, you can now make your own onigiri and customize it with your favorite ingredients. So grab your rice and get ready to roll some delicious onigiri!