Onigiri

Onigiri, also known as 'rice triangles', is a traditional Japanese dish that has gained popularity worldwide due to its simplicity and delicious taste. This appetizer or snack is perfect for a picnic, a quick meal, or even as a healthy choice at the office. Although it is a simple recipe, there are a few tricks and techniques that can turn your onigiri into a culinary masterpiece.

To start, make sure to use high-quality Japanese rice, ideal for sushi, as it has a stickier texture, perfect for shaping onigiri. Begin by washing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. After washing, let the rice soak for about 30 minutes, then cook it according to the package instructions, being careful to use the right amount of water.

Once the rice is cooked, let it cool slightly, but not completely, so that it can be shaped. Wet your palm with water to prevent the rice from sticking. Then, take a handful of rice that fits in your palm and start shaping it into a triangle. Be gentle, but make sure to press it well to give it a compact shape.

In the middle of the triangle, add your preferred filling. You can use tuna, fish, pickled vegetables, or even vegan fillings, depending on your preferences. It is important that the filling is well-balanced, so that it is not too wet, which could compromise the texture of the onigiri. After adding the filling, continue to shape the triangle, making sure the filling stays in the middle, just as you want it.

Once you have finished shaping the onigiri, it is time to wrap them with nori. Cut the nori sheets into strips about 2 cm wide, then wrap each onigiri with a strip of nori, leaving one part of the triangle exposed. This will not only add a contrast of textures but will also provide a delicious flavor. Continue the process with the remaining rice and filling until you have finished all the onigiri.

Once you are done, you can serve the onigiri immediately, or you can store them in an airtight container to enjoy later. They are perfectly appealing, easy to transport, and can be customized to suit everyone’s tastes. Whether you make them for yourself or to impress friends, onigiri is an excellent choice for any occasion!