Rice Balls (Onigiri) with Seaweed

Ingredients:

• 300g (1.5 cups) Japanese short-grain rice
• 480ml (2 cups) water for cooking rice
• 5g (1 tsp) salt
• 5ml (1 tsp) soy sauce
• 30g (1 oz) cooked salmon or tuna, flaked (optional filling)
• 5g (1 tbsp) furikake or sesame seeds (optional seasoning)
• 4 sheets nori (seaweed), cut into strips

Instructions:

Step 1: Preparing the Rice

Wash the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch, which can make the rice too sticky. Combine the rice with water in a rice cooker or pot. Cook according to the rice cooker’s instructions or bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes if using a pot. Once done, allow the rice to sit covered for an additional 10 minutes to finish steaming.

Step 2: Seasoning the Rice

Transfer the cooked rice into a large mixing bowl. Add salt and gently fold it in with a wooden spoon or rice paddle. Be careful not to mash the grains. If desired, add soy sauce and furikake seasoning for additional flavor.

Step 3: Shaping the Onigiri

Keep a bowl of water nearby to moisten your hands to prevent rice from sticking. Scoop about 100g (1/2 cup) of seasoned rice into your hand. Flatten slightly and place a small amount of salmon or tuna in the center (if using a filling). Fold the rice around the filling and shape it into a ball or triangle. Alternatively, use an onigiri mold for more uniform shapes. Repeat the process with the remaining rice and fillings.

Step 4: Wrapping with Seaweed

Take a strip of nori and wrap it around the onigiri. The seaweed helps to hold the shape and adds a delightful texture. If you prefer less nori, just place a strip on one side or partially wrap it.

Conclusion:

Congratulations! You’ve successfully made your own rice balls, or onigiri, with seaweed. This simple yet versatile dish showcases the charm of Japanese cuisine: fresh ingredients, careful preparation, and harmony of flavors. Whether enjoyed as a light meal or a snack, onigiri are sure to delight your taste buds. Experiment with different fillings and seasonings to keep your culinary adventures exciting. Enjoy your homemade onigiri!

Wyatt Travis Creator of AI MultiPrompter

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