07 May 2025
Cook time 20 min
Prep time 10 min
Ingredients:
1/2 cup white rice
1/4 tbsp salt
2.50 sheets seaweed
Seaweed onigiri balls, also known as Japanese rice balls, are a delicious and nutritious snack. Made with simple ingredients like white rice, salt, and seaweed, these onigiri balls are perfect for a quick bite, lunchbox treat, or picnic. This recipe is easy to follow and yields tasty results that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.
Instructions:
1. Cook the Rice:
- Rinse the white rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch.
- Place the rice in a pot with 1 cup of water (use a 1:2 rice to water ratio). Bring to a boil over medium heat.
- Once the water boils, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until all the water has been absorbed and the rice is cooked through.
- Remove from heat, keep the lid on, and let it sit for another 10 minutes to steam. Fluff the rice with a fork.
2. Season the Rice:
- After the rice has cooled slightly (should still be warm but not hot), sprinkle 1/4 tbsp of salt over it. Mix gently to evenly distribute the salt throughout the rice.
3. Prepare the Seaweed:
- Cut the seaweed sheets into smaller strips or squares. They should be big enough to wrap around or cover the rice balls.
4. Shape the Onigiri:
- Wet your hands with a little water to prevent the rice from sticking to them.
- Take a small handful of rice and shape it into a ball or triangle using your hands. Press gently but firmly to ensure the rice sticks together.
- Repeat until all the rice is used up.
5. Wrap with Seaweed:
- Wrap each rice ball with the prepared seaweed strips. You can either fully cover the rice ball or just wrap a strip around the middle.
6. Serve:
- Your Seaweed Onigiri Balls are ready to serve! Enjoy them as a snack, part of a meal, or pack them in a lunchbox.
Tips:
- Use freshly cooked sushi rice for the best results as it has the right level of stickiness and flavor.
- Keep your hands wet while shaping the onigiri to prevent the rice from sticking to your fingers.
- Add fillings like pickled plum, tuna, or salmon for added flavor and variety.
- Lightly toast the seaweed sheets before wrapping for extra crispiness.
- Store the onigiri in a cool place if not consuming immediately, and wrap them in plastic wrap to keep them fresh.
Making seaweed onigiri balls is straightforward and rewarding. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delightful snack that is both portable and satisfying. Enjoy your homemade onigiri balls as a light meal or share them with friends and family for a taste of Japanese cuisine.