19 Onigiri Recipe Japanese Cooking 101 You Must Try Them!
Published on: Mar 26, 2024
Onigiri, also known as Japanese rice balls, are a popular and convenient snack in Japan. These delicious treats are made from steamed rice, salt, and various fillings, and are then shaped into triangles or balls. They are a staple in Japanese cuisine and can be found in convenience stores, bento boxes, and even at home. In this article, we will learn about the traditional onigiri recipe and how to make them at home like a true Japanese cook.
Salmon and Black Sesame Onigiri (Japanese Rice Balls)
Main Ingredients: Smoked Salmon, Short Grain Rice, Black Sesame Seeds
Onigiri, or Japanese rice balls, are a staple in Japanese cuisine. They are a perfect snack or light meal, and can be found in convenience stores, train stations, and even on the streets of Tokyo. These delicious rice balls are made by shaping rice into a triangle or oval shape and filling them with various ingredients. One popular variation is the Salmon and Black Sesame Onigiri, which combines the rich flavor of salmon with the nutty crunch of black sesame seeds. Let's take a look at how to make this delicious dish.
Onigiri, also known as omusubi, is a traditional Japanese food that has been enjoyed for centuries. The word "onigiri" comes from the Japanese words "oni" which means demon or ogre, and "giri" which means to mold or shape. These rice balls were originally shaped like triangles, resembling the head of a demon, and were used as a portable and convenient food for travelers. Today, onigiri is still a popular snack in Japan and is enjoyed by people all over the world.
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Yaki Onigiri
Main Ingredients: Brown Rice, White Rice, Soy Sauce
Yaki Onigiri, or grilled rice balls, is a popular variation of the traditional Japanese rice balls. It involves grilling the onigiri until it is crispy on the outside, giving it a smoky and savory flavor. The inside remains soft and fluffy, creating a perfect texture contrast. Yaki Onigiri is a great option for those who prefer a more savory and hearty rice ball.
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Japanese Rice Balls Onigiri
Main Ingredients: Cooked Rice, Umeboshi, Bonito Flakes, Soy Sauce, Mirin
Onigiri is usually made with Japanese short-grain rice, which is known for its sticky and moist texture. The rice is cooked and seasoned with a mixture of rice vinegar, sugar, and salt, giving it a slightly tangy and sweet taste. The filling can vary, but some popular options include grilled salmon, pickled plums, tuna mayo, and various vegetables.
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Miso Soup – Japanese Cooking 101
Main Ingredients: Water, Bonito Flakes, Tofu, Miso Paste, Green Onions
Miso soup is a staple in Japanese cuisine and is often served as a side dish with meals. It is made with a mixture of miso paste, which is made from fermented soybeans, and dashi, a Japanese stock made from bonito flakes and kelp. The soup is usually filled with tofu, seaweed, and green onions, giving it a nutritious and flavorful boost.
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How To Make Onigiri (Japanese rice balls)
Main Ingredients: White Rice, Sushi Nori, Tuna Packed In Oil, Mayonnaise
Making onigiri is a simple and fun process. First, you will need to cook the rice and season it with the vinegar mixture. Then, wet your hands with water to prevent the rice from sticking, and shape the rice into a triangle or oval shape. Next, make a small indentation in the center of the onigiri and fill it with your desired filling. Finally, use your hands to mold the rice around the filling and create a smooth surface. You can also wrap the onigiri in nori seaweed for added flavor and texture.
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Vegan Onigiri - Japanese Stuffed Rice Balls
Main Ingredients: Sushi Rice, Salt, Peanut Butter, Roasted Bell Pepper
For those who follow a vegan diet, making onigiri is still possible and just as delicious. Some popular vegan filling options include marinated tofu, edamame, pickled vegetables, and even vegan mock meat. The possibilities are endless, and you can get creative with different combinations of ingredients to find your favorite vegan onigiri.
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Salmon Onigiri (Japanese Rice Balls)
Main Ingredients: Salmon, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Sushi Rice, Sesame
The Salmon Onigiri is a classic and popular variation of the traditional rice balls. The salmon is usually grilled and seasoned with soy sauce, mirin, and sugar, giving it a sweet and savory flavor. The rich and buttery texture of the salmon pairs perfectly with the sticky rice, creating a delicious and satisfying snack or meal.
Onigiri is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many different ways. It can be eaten as a quick snack, a light meal, or even as part of a bento box lunch. Onigiri is also a great option for picnics, road trips, and other outdoor activities as they are easy to pack and transport. Plus, with so many different filling options, you can never get bored of these delicious rice balls.
Japanese pancakes, also known as souffle pancakes, are a popular dish that has gained popularity all over the world. These pancakes are light and fluffy, with a cloud-like texture that melts in your mouth. They are made with a batter that includes whipped egg whites, giving them their signature airy texture. Japanese pancakes are often topped with fresh fruit, syrup, and whipped cream, making them a perfect breakfast or dessert option.
Onigiri can also be enjoyed as a sweet treat. Sweet onigiri are made using the same process as savory ones but with different fillings such as sweet red bean paste, chocolate, or fruit. They can also be topped with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey for added sweetness. Sweet onigiri is a great option for those with a sweet tooth and can be enjoyed as a dessert or snack.
Okonomiyaki is a savory Japanese pancake that is a popular street food in Japan. It is made with a batter of flour, water, and shredded cabbage, and can be filled with a variety of ingredients such as pork, shrimp, or vegetables. The pancake is then topped with a special okonomiyaki sauce, mayonnaise, and bonito flakes, giving it a unique and delicious flavor. Okonomiyaki is a must-try dish for anyone visiting Japan.
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Yaki Onigiri (Japanese Rice Balls) | Vegan
Main Ingredients: Short Grain Rice, Water, Sushi Rice, Rice Vinegar
Yaki Onigiri is a great option for vegans as it is a savory and filling dish that can be easily made without any animal products. The rice balls are grilled until crispy on the outside and filled with delicious vegan ingredients such as marinated tofu, mushrooms, and vegetables. Yaki Onigiri is a great option for a quick and satisfying meal that is both vegan and delicious.
Japanese ‘Cotton’ Cheesecake is a light and fluffy dessert that is a perfect ending to any meal. It is made with cream cheese, eggs, and a touch of flour, giving it a light and airy texture. The cheesecake is usually topped with fresh fruit or a drizzle of chocolate sauce, making it a delicious and elegant dessert that is popular in Japan and all over the world.
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How To Make Onigiri (Japanese rice balls)
Main Ingredients: Short Grain Rice, Water, Nori, Veggie, Seasoning
Making onigiri at home is a great way to experiment with different flavors and fillings. You can get creative and try different combinations of ingredients to find your perfect rice ball. You can also get your friends and family involved in the process and have a fun and delicious cooking activity. Onigiri is a great option for a homemade meal that is both delicious and nutritious.
Onigiri is a beloved food in Japan and has become popular all over the world. It is a simple and comforting dish that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds. With its endless variations and delicious flavors, it's no wonder that onigiri has stood the test of time and continues to be a favorite in Japanese cuisine.
Main Ingredients: Sticky Rice, Water, Salt, Brown Rice Vinegar, Peanut
This unique and creative twist on the traditional rice balls is a must-try for vegans and non-vegans alike. The onigiri is filled with creamy peanut butter and coated with a crispy layer of vegan parmesan cheese. The combination of sweet and salty flavors is a match made in heaven, and the crunchy coating adds a satisfying texture to the soft and fluffy rice. This is a perfect snack for any occasion.
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Spicy Tuna Onigiri
Main Ingredients: Rice, Cold Water, Kosher Salt, Albacore Tuna
For those who enjoy a little kick in their food, the Spicy Tuna Onigiri is a must-try. The filling is made with canned tuna, mayonnaise, and spicy sriracha sauce, giving it a flavor that packs a punch. The combination of the spicy tuna with the sticky rice is a delicious and satisfying combination that will leave you wanting more.
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Tuna Mayo Onigiri
Main Ingredients: Short Grain Rice, Water, Albacore Tuna, Soy Sauce
Tuna Mayo Onigiri is a classic and simple variation of the traditional rice balls. The filling is made with canned tuna and mayonnaise, giving it a creamy and savory flavor. This is a popular option for those who enjoy a milder and more familiar taste, and it is a great option for kids as well.
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Japanese Cucumber Salad (Sunomono)
Main Ingredients: English Cucumber, Salt, Sugar, Soy Sauce, Rice Vinegar
Sunomono, or Japanese cucumber salad, is a refreshing and light side dish that is often served with meals. It is made with thinly sliced cucumbers and marinated in a dressing made from rice vinegar, sugar, and soy sauce. The salad is often topped with sesame seeds and can also include other ingredients such as seaweed or shrimp. Sunomono is a perfect side dish to pair with any meal, especially on a hot summer day.
Ingredients for Onigiri
To make onigiri, you will need the following ingredients:
Japanese short-grain rice: This type of rice is essential for making onigiri as it has a sticky texture that holds the shape of the rice balls.
Salt: Salt is added to the rice for flavoring and preserving.
Filling: There are endless options for fillings, such as pickled plums, salmon flakes, tuna, and more. You can also choose to make them without any filling.
Seaweed sheets: These are used to wrap the onigiri and add extra flavor and texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Start by cooking the Japanese short-grain rice according to the package instructions. Once cooked, let it cool for a few minutes.
2. In a small bowl, mix 1/4 cup of water with 1 teaspoon of salt to create a brine solution.
3. Wet your hands with the brine solution and take a handful of rice. Shape it into a triangular or round ball, making sure to leave a dent in the middle for the filling.
4. Place your desired filling in the dent and cover it with more rice. Use your hands to shape the rice into a firm ball or triangle.
5. If using seaweed sheets, wrap the onigiri in the middle with the shiny side facing the rice. You can also sprinkle some sesame seeds on the seaweed for extra flavor.
6. Repeat the process until all the rice and filling are used up.
7. Your onigiri is now ready to be enjoyed! You can also wrap them in plastic wrap for later consumption.
Tips and Tricks
- To prevent the rice from sticking to your hands, wet them with the brine solution before shaping the onigiri.
- You can also use plastic wrap to shape the rice if you find it easier.
- Experiment with different fillings to find your favorite combination.
- Onigiri can be eaten at room temperature or heated in a microwave for a few seconds.
- You can also add some furikake (Japanese rice seasoning) to the rice for extra flavor.
Now that you know the basics of making onigiri, you can get creative and make them your own. These delicious rice balls are perfect for a quick snack or a fun addition to your bento box. Once you've mastered the traditional onigiri recipe, you can try experimenting with different shapes, fillings, and seasonings to create your own unique version. Enjoy!
Salmon and Black Sesame Onigiri (Japanese Rice Balls)
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