How to Fold Onigiri: An Easy Guide
Onigiri, originally known as rice balls in Japanese, are small, portablericeballs typically wrapped in thin seaweed, called nori. They are a popular snack and lunch option inJapan and are easy to make at home. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to properly fold onigiri, ensuring they stay crispy and enjoy their maximum flavor.
Ingredients
To make onigiri, you will need:
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Japanese short-grain rice
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Salted rice vinegar
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Nori seaweed sheets or pre-made onigiri wrappers
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Optional fillings such as pickled plums (umeboshi), salmon, spam, or tuna
Instructions
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Prepare the rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until no starch is detected, then drain well. Fill the rice cooker with the cooked rice and add seasoned rice vinegar, stirring well. For extra flavor, add a tablespoon of furikake (a mix of dried fish, sesame seeds, salt, sugar, and seaweed) to the cooked rice. Let the rice cool completely.
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Assemble the onigiri: Find a clean working surface and a bowl of water. Wet your hands slightly with water and spread a little salt on it. Scoop about ¾ cup of cooled rice into your hand, and shape it into a small mound. If you're using a filling, press it into the center of the rice. Gradually bring the edges of the rice up around the filling, pressing down firmly to hold it in place. You should have a rough outline of the onigiri.
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Wrap the nori: Place the onigiri mound in the center of the nori seaweed sheet. Fold the top edge of the seaweed down over the rice, making sure the rice is covered. Then, fold the side edges over the rice to enclose it completely. If there is excess seaweed at the end, trim it with scissors to fit better.
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Secure the onigiri: Use a small amount of water to moisten the ends of the seaweed. Fold the ends over each other, pressing down gently to make a sharp crease. The onigiri should now have three slightly-exposed corners of rice on the ends.
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Serve and enjoy: Onigiri is best enjoyed fresh and served immediately. If you're planning to pack them for a trip or as a gift, be sure to keep them refrigerated until ready to eat. With these simple steps, you'll be making delicious onigiri that look and taste like they came right from a Japanese convenience store.Wrapping onigiri may seem tricky at first, but with a little practice, you'll master the art of how to fold them perfectly. Remember to use freshly cooked rice, not day-old rice, and don't forget to label your onigiri with the date and type of filling for a tasty, personalized snack. Share your homemade onigiri with friends and family, and enjoy the taste of Japan wherever you go.
