Onigiri (Japanese Rice Balls)
Onigiri is the quintessential Japanese rice ball: lightly salted Japanese rice shaped into a triangle around a filling, then wrapped with a strip of nori. Simple, portable and endlessly variable, it’s the country’s most iconic snack and bentō staple. The umeboshi (salted plum) version is plant-based, gluten-free and ideal for keeping.
Original recipe : Just One Cookbook + No Recipes
Ingredients
- 400 g cooked Japanese rice (still warm)
- 1/2 tsp salt (for hands and seasoning)
- 2–3 umeboshi (salted plums), pitted and chopped
- 2 sheets nori, cut into strips
- A bowl of water to wet your hands
Method
- 1Set out a bowl of water and a small dish of salt. Wet your hands, then dust them with a little salt.
- 2Take about 100 g of warm rice in your hand.
- 3Make a small well, add a little chopped umeboshi, then close the rice over it.
- 4Shape into a triangle, pressing firmly but not crushing, turning the ball between your hands (3–4 presses per side).
- 5Wrap the base with a strip of nori.
- 6Repeat with the rest and serve, or pack for a bentō.
Tips & tricks
- Shape warm (not hot or cold) rice: it compacts better and stays tender.
- Wet, salted hands stop the rice sticking and season the ball.
- Add the nori just before eating so it stays crisp.
Variations
- Other classic fillings: flaked grilled salmon, tuna-mayo, or katsuobushi with soy sauce (not vegetarian).
Storage
Eat within the day. Keep without the nori, adding it at serving time.
Ingredient substitutions
- Ground meat : cooked lentils, textured soy protein or chopped mushrooms.
What to serve it with
- Crusty country bread
- A light main course to follow
- A glass of dry white wine (to taste)
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to make "Onigiri (Japanese Rice Balls)"?
Allow about 15 min of prep, i.e. 15 min in total for 4 servings.
Is this recipe easy to make?
Yes, it's an "Easy" recipe: perfect for beginners, with no special technique required.
Can I make "Onigiri (Japanese Rice Balls)" ahead and store it?
Eat within the day. Keep without the nori, adding it at serving time.
How many servings does this recipe make?
The quantities are for 4 servings. To adjust, simply multiply or divide the ingredients by the number of guests.
Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, "Onigiri (Japanese Rice Balls)" is 100% vegan: it contains no animal products.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as written this recipe is gluten-free. Do check that any processed products you use are gluten-free too.