16 Recipe For Onigiri In Japanese Elevate Your Taste Buds!

Published on: Mar 26, 2024

Onigiri, also known as Japanese rice balls, are a popular snack and lunch option in Japan. These bite-sized treats are made from sticky rice and can be filled with a variety of savory fillings. Not only are onigiri delicious, but they are also easy to make and can be customized to suit any palate. In this article, we will share a simple recipe for onigiri that you can try at home.

Jump to Recipe

1 of 20

Onigiri - Japanese Rice Balls

Main Ingredients: White Rice, Water, Salt, Bonito, Nori, Sesame Seeds

Japanese Rice Balls (Onigiri) | Chopstick Chronicles

Yaki Onigiri (Japanese Rice Balls) | Vegan - Bianca Zapatka | Recipes

Vegan Onigiri - Japanese Stuffed Rice Balls • Green Evi

Onigiri, also known as Japanese rice balls, are a classic and beloved dish in Japan. These small, triangular-shaped snacks are made by molding cooked rice into a shape, usually with a filling inside, and then wrapping them in nori seaweed. Onigiri is a popular grab-and-go food, perfect for a quick snack or lunch on the go. There are endless variations of onigiri, and they are easy to make at home with just a few simple ingredients. Here are 20 delicious onigiri recipes to try.

2 of 20

Salmon and Black Sesame Onigiri (Japanese Rice Balls)

Main Ingredients: Smoked Salmon, Short Grain Rice, Black Sesame Seeds

Yaki Onigiri (Grilled Rice Balls) | 焼きおにぎり - Okonomi Kitchen

Onigiri (Japanese Rice Ball) - RecipeTin Japan

Onigiri- Japanese Rice Balls おにぎり | Chopstick Chronicles

This onigiri recipe combines the rich flavor of salmon with the nutty crunch of black sesame seeds. The salmon is cooked with soy sauce and mirin, giving it a sweet and savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the sticky rice. The black sesame seeds add a nice texture and a touch of earthiness to the dish. This onigiri is a great option for a protein-packed lunch or snack.

3 of 20

Yaki Onigiri

Main Ingredients: Brown Rice, White Rice, Soy Sauce

Grilled Rice Balls Miso Yaki Onigiri | Chopstick Chronicles

Tuna Yaki Onigiri - Creamy Tuna Rice Balls - Tiffy Cooks

Yaki onigiri, or grilled rice balls, is a popular variation of onigiri that adds a delicious smoky flavor to the dish. The rice balls are brushed with a soy sauce and mirin glaze and then grilled until crispy on the outside. The result is a perfect combination of soft and chewy rice with a crispy, flavorful exterior. This yaki onigiri recipe is a must-try for any onigiri lover.

4 of 20

Onigiri - Japanese Rice Balls

Main Ingredients: Shiso, Salmon, Dried Seaweed, Seasoning, Sushi Rice

For a classic and simple onigiri recipe, look no further than this one. This recipe uses a traditional filling of umeboshi, or pickled plum, which adds a tangy and slightly salty flavor to the rice. The umeboshi is mashed and mixed with the rice before shaping it into onigiri. This is a great option for those looking for a traditional and authentic onigiri experience.

5 of 20

How To Make Onigiri (Japanese rice balls)

Main Ingredients: White Rice, Sushi Nori, Tuna Packed In Oil, Mayonnaise

This Ultimate Onigiri Guide that covers how to make them with a variety ...

Onigiri Recipes, Method & Gadgets - Chopstick Chronicles

Onigiri (Japanese Stuffed Rice Balls) | Sushi rice, Rice balls, Recipes

If you're new to making onigiri, this recipe is a great place to start. It breaks down the process step by step, making it easy for anyone to make delicious homemade onigiri. This recipe also includes tips for shaping and wrapping the onigiri, as well as suggestions for different fillings to try. With this recipe, you'll be a pro at making onigiri in no time.

6 of 20

Salmon Onigiri (Japanese Rice Balls)

Main Ingredients: Salmon, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Sushi Rice, Sesame

Japanese Salmon Onigiri Rice Balls - A Spectacled Owl

Simple "Onigiri" (Rice Balls) Without Nori Seaweed | Chef JA Cooks ...

Salmon onigiri is a popular variation of onigiri that adds a protein-packed filling to the traditional rice ball. This recipe uses a mixture of canned salmon, mayonnaise, and soy sauce for a simple and delicious filling. The salmon is mixed with the rice before shaping it into onigiri, making for a quick and easy meal or snack.

7 of 20

Yaki Onigiri (Japanese Rice Balls) | Vegan

Main Ingredients: Short Grain Rice, Water, Sushi Rice, Rice Vinegar

Cute Food, Good Food, Yummy Food, Delicious, Tasty, Sushi Recipes ...

Vegans can also enjoy the deliciousness of yaki onigiri with this vegan recipe. This version uses a filling of pan-fried tofu and a soy-based glaze for a flavorful and protein-packed option. The tofu is cooked with a mix of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic, giving it a delicious Asian-inspired flavor. This onigiri is perfect for vegans or anyone looking for a meat-free option.

8 of 20

How To Make Onigiri (Japanese rice balls)

Main Ingredients: Short Grain Rice, Water, Nori, Veggie, Seasoning

Another great recipe for beginners, this one provides a step-by-step guide to making onigiri. It also includes a helpful video tutorial to make the process even easier. This recipe uses a traditional filling of umeboshi, but also offers suggestions for other fillings to try. This is a great recipe for anyone looking to master the art of making onigiri.

9 of 20

Onigiri - Japanese Rice Balls (おにぎり)

Main Ingredients: Short Grain Rice, Kosher Salt, Okaka, Salmon, Mushroom

Umeboshi Onigiri (Rice Balls with Japanese Salt Plums) | Love and Olive Oil

How to Make Onigiri (おにぎり - Japanese Rice Balls)

This recipe puts a unique spin on traditional onigiri by adding a crispy crust of vegan parmesan cheese and peanut butter. The peanut butter adds a creamy and nutty flavor to the rice, while the parmesan cheese adds a delicious salty crunch. This onigiri is perfect for a snack or light lunch, and is sure to be a hit with both vegans and non-vegans alike.

10 of 20

Vegan Parmesan Crusted Peanut Butter Onigiri (Japanese...

Main Ingredients: Sticky Rice, Water, Salt, Brown Rice Vinegar, Peanut

For another delicious vegan option, try this recipe for vegan onigiri. This version uses a filling of pan-fried tofu and a soy-based glaze, similar to the yaki onigiri recipe. The tofu is cooked with a mix of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic, giving it a delicious Asian-inspired flavor. This onigiri is perfect for vegans or anyone looking for a meat-free option.

11 of 20

Japanese Rice Balls Onigiri

Main Ingredients: Cooked Rice, Umeboshi, Bonito Flakes, Soy Sauce, Mirin

Japanese Onigiri Recipe - Onigiri Recipe Japanese Rice Balls Hungry Huy ...

Yaki Onigiri (Grilled Rice Balls) 焼きおにぎり - Chopstick Chronicles

Onigiri (Rice Balls) Recipe | Food Network

This recipe is a classic and simple option for onigiri, perfect for those looking for a traditional and authentic experience. This version uses a filling of tuna and Japanese mayo, giving it a creamy and savory flavor. The tuna is mixed with the rice before shaping it into onigiri. This is a great option for a quick and easy lunch or snack.

12 of 20

Vegan Onigiri - Japanese Stuffed Rice Balls

Main Ingredients: Sushi Rice, Salt, Peanut Butter, Roasted Bell Pepper

Vegan Yaki Onigiri - Japanese Stuffed Rice Balls • Cashewdate.com

How to make onigiri (Japanese rice balls)

For a vegan twist on traditional onigiri, try this recipe. This version uses a filling of pan-fried tofu, avocado, and a spicy sriracha mayo for a flavorful and protein-packed option. The tofu is cooked with a mix of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic, giving it a delicious Asian-inspired flavor. This onigiri is perfect for vegans or anyone looking for a meat-free option with a bit of a kick.

13 of 20

Onigiri - Japanese Rice Balls

Main Ingredients: Japanese Rice, Umeboshi, Mentaiko, Nori Sheets, Salt

This recipe is a classic and simple option for onigiri, perfect for those looking for a traditional and authentic experience. This version uses a filling of umeboshi and tuna, giving it a tangy and savory flavor. The tuna and umeboshi are mixed with the rice before shaping it into onigiri. This is a great option for a quick and easy lunch or snack.

14 of 20

Yaki Onigiri (Grilled Rice Balls)

Main Ingredients: Short Grain Rice, Salt, Soy Sauce, Mirin, Ground Black

Yaki Onigiri (Grilled Rice Ball) with Miso Butter Sauce | Chopstick ...

For a twist on traditional yaki onigiri, try this recipe that adds a delicious and flavorful filling of shrimp and avocado. The shrimp is cooked with a mix of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic, giving it a delicious Asian-inspired flavor. The avocado adds a creamy and refreshing touch to the dish. This onigiri is perfect for a light and tasty lunch or snack.

15 of 20

Onigiri (rice Balls)

Main Ingredients: Rice, Nori Seaweed, Salt, Pickled Plum, Bonito Flakes

This recipe is a simple and classic version of onigiri, perfect for those looking for a traditional and authentic experience. This version uses a filling of spicy tuna, giving it a bit of a kick. The tuna is mixed with the rice before shaping it into onigiri. This is a great option for a quick and easy lunch or snack for those who love a bit of spice.

16 of 20

Miso Yaki Onigiri (Miso-Flavored Grilled Rice Balls)

Main Ingredients: Japanese Rice, Brown Rice, White Sesame Seeds, Miso

Miso Yaki Onigiri (Grilled Rice Balls) 味噌焼きおにぎり • Just One Cookbook

Grilled Rice Balls Miso Yaki Onigiri Recipes | Recipes | Yaki onigiri ...

Yaki Onigiri Recipe ( 焼きおにぎり – Grilled Rice Ball )

This recipe puts a unique spin on traditional yaki onigiri by adding a delicious miso glaze. The miso adds a rich and savory flavor to the dish, and the rice balls are grilled until crispy on the outside. This onigiri is perfect for a flavorful and satisfying lunch or snack.

17 of 20

Spicy Tuna Onigiri

Main Ingredients: Rice, Cold Water, Kosher Salt, Albacore Tuna

Spicy Tuna Onigiri - This Healthy Table

For a tasty and protein-packed option, try this recipe for spicy tuna onigiri. The tuna is mixed with a spicy mayo and soy sauce, giving it a delicious kick. The rice balls are also coated in panko breadcrumbs and fried until crispy, adding a nice crunch to the dish. This onigiri is perfect for those who love a bit of spice.

18 of 20

Easy Onigiri (Japanese Rice Balls)

Main Ingredients: Sushi Rice, Water, Furikake Rice Seasoning, Salt

This recipe is perfect for those short on time, as it uses pre-made onigiri rice balls from the store. The rice balls are filled with a variety of delicious fillings, including tuna, salmon, and shrimp. This is a great option for a quick and satisfying lunch or snack.

19 of 20

Japanese Crispy Fried Rice Balls with Tuna & Orange...

Main Ingredients: Sushi Rice, Spring Onions, Fresh Cilantro, Ginger

Japanese Crispy Fried Tuna Rice Balls with Wasabi Orange Sauce | Recipe ...

Fried Kimchi Rice Balls | Recipe | Recipes, Cooking recipes, Yummy food

Quick & Easy Tuna Fried Rice | Hint of Healthy

Crispy Fried Tuna Balls - Cooking with Thas - Healthy Recipes, Instant ...

For a unique and flavorful twist on traditional onigiri, try this recipe that adds a delicious citrus flavor to the dish. The tuna is mixed with orange zest and juice, giving it a refreshing and bright flavor. The rice balls are also coated in panko breadcrumbs and fried until crispy, adding a nice crunch to the dish. This onigiri is perfect for a light and refreshing lunch or snack.

20 of 20

Hibachi-Style Japanese Fried Rice

Main Ingredients: Soy Sauce, Apple Cider Vinegar, Maple Syrup, Liquid

Japanese Fried Rice Recipe (Hibachi Style) - i FOOD Blogger

Hibachi Chicken with Fried Rice | Super Easy, Meal Prep Friendly!

The BEST Japanese Fried Rice Hibachi Style | Recipe | Japanese fried ...

Hibachi Fried Rice Recipe (Step by Step + Video) - Whiskaffair

This recipe puts a spin on traditional onigiri by using fried rice instead of sticky rice. The fried rice is cooked with a mix of soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger, giving it a delicious Asian-inspired flavor. The rice is then formed into triangles and grilled until crispy on the outside. This onigiri is perfect for those who love a bit of crunch in their rice balls.

Ingredients:

1. Sticky rice:

The key ingredient for making onigiri is sticky rice. This type of rice is essential as it holds its shape and makes it easier to mold into the desired shape. You can find sticky rice at your local Asian grocery store or online.

2. Fillings:

The beauty of onigiri is that you can get creative with the fillings. Some popular options include pickled plums (umeboshi), grilled salmon, teriyaki chicken, and seasoned seaweed (nori). You can also experiment with vegetarian fillings like grilled tofu or cooked vegetables.

3. Salt:

To add flavor to your onigiri, you'll need some salt. This ingredient is used to season the rice and can be adjusted to your taste.

Instructions:

1. Cook the rice:

Start by cooking the sticky rice according to the instructions on the package. Once cooked, let it cool for a few minutes.

2. Prepare the filling:

While the rice is cooling, prepare your desired fillings. If using seafood or meat, make sure to cook it beforehand.

3. Season the rice:

Sprinkle a pinch of salt on the cooled rice and mix it well. This will give the onigiri a subtle salty flavor.

4. Wet your hands:

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

5. Start shaping:

Take a handful of rice and shape it into a triangle or ball. Make a small indent in the center to create a space for the filling.

6. Add the filling:

Place a small amount of filling in the indent on the rice and cover it with more rice. Make sure the filling is fully enclosed in the rice.

7. Mold into desired shape:

Using your hands, gently mold the rice and filling into the desired shape. You can also use a plastic wrap to help mold the onigiri if needed.

8. Wrap in nori:

For an authentic touch, wrap the onigiri in a sheet of seasoned seaweed (nori). This not only adds flavor but also holds the onigiri together.

9. Serve or pack for later:

Your onigiri is now ready to be enjoyed! You can serve them immediately or pack them for later. They are a great option for a quick and satisfying snack or lunch. In conclusion, making onigiri is a fun and simple process that can be easily customized to fit your taste preferences. With this recipe, you can create your own delicious and authentic Japanese rice balls at home. So gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try!