What Is Onigiri? How to Make Japanese Rice Balls + Fillings to Try


🍙 What Is Onigiri?

Onigiri (おにぎり), also known as Japanese rice balls, are made by shaping white rice into a triangle or round form and filling them with ingredients like salmon, tuna mayo, or umeboshi (pickled plum). Often wrapped in nori (seaweed), they're a beloved staple in Japanese homes, schools, and convenience stores.

🥢 Ingredients for Onigiri

  • Japanese short-grain rice (sushi rice)
  • Salt
  • Nori sheets (cut into strips)
How To Cook Japanese Rice Recipe by Julie - Mrs. Lin’s Kitchen
Not everyone eats rice daily like the Japanese, and not everyone has a rice cooker on hand. so this recipe is to show you how Japanese rice is cooked on a stove top.

Onigiris Filling of your choice: [See Onigiri Filling recipes]

🔪 How to Make Onigiri (Step-by-Step)

  • Cook the rice: Use short-grain Japanese rice and cook it until slightly sticky.
  • Prepare your fillings: Have your ingredients cooked and cooled—flaked salmon, tuna mayo, etc.
  • Wet your hands with water and sprinkle a little salt to prevent sticking.
  • Shape the rice: Place a small amount in your hand, add the filling in the center, and mold into a triangle or ball.
  • Wrap with nori: Add a strip or sheet of nori to hold the shape and add texture.
  • Serve or store: Wrap tightly for bento or enjoy warm!
Pokemon Character Bento Pikachu Onigiri Recipe by cookpad.japan
This is a Pikachu character bento that even a beginner can make. If you use the edges of the cup and side dishes to support the ears, it will not slide around. For 1 pikachu. Recipe by momo**.

🍣 Tuna Mayo Onigiri

This is easily one of the most popular onigiri fillings in Japan and beyond. It's made by mixing canned tuna with Japanese mayonnaise (which is creamier and slightly sweeter) and placing it in the center of the rice ball. Its mild flavor and creamy texture make it a favorite among both kids and adults.

Tuna Mayo ‘Onigiri’ Rice Balls Recipe by Hiroko Liston
In Japan, ‘Onigiri’ Rice Balls are available in so many different flavours and with different fillings. ‘Onigiri’ are becoming popular in Australia, too. One of the most popular fillings is Tuna & Mayonnaise. I heard many international visitors to Japan fall in love with this Tuna Mayo ‘Onigiri’ Ric…
Easy And Clean Rice Ball (Onigiri) Recipe by Mogco Tokyo
How to make Onigiri in a triangle? Let’s learn Japanese traditional lunch! You can put any ingredients as you like, such as cheese and avocados. Be creative! #nori #rice #onigiri #basic

🐟 Grilled Salmon Onigiri (Shake Onigiri)

A classic and traditional option often found in Japanese households. Salted grilled salmon is flaked and used as a filling. It's a healthy and flavorful choice that delivers a clean umami taste. Typically wrapped with a strip of nori for easy handling.

Salmon Omusubi (Rice Ball) Recipe by Ashwini
Japanese rice is very healthy and tasty. You don’t need too many condiments to eat it. It is a healthy fast food alternative for kids. I usually make different types of Omusubi for my kids lunch box or for snack at home.
Anpanman Onigiri Charaben Recipe by cookpad.japan
When it comes to a charaben, this is it! Please feel free to substitute any unavailable ingredients with whatever you have on hand. Securing the nose and cheeks with pasta keeps them from falling apart. Recipe by Mai*Mai

🔥 Yaki Onigiri (Grilled Onigiri)

These rice balls are pan-fried or grilled until the outside becomes crispy and golden, then brushed with soy sauce for extra flavor. They’re often served without nori. The contrast between the crunchy crust and soft interior makes them deeply satisfying with a slightly smoky edge.

How To Make Yaki Onigiri (Grilled Rice Ball) | Yummy Recipe 🍘 Recipe by Daruma Cooking
A quick and easy breakfast! Watch the video too: https://youtu.be/w_rRH9SXElY ▷ Daruma Cooking Happy Cooking : ) #onigiri #riceball

🍳 Pork Tamago Onigiri

Originating from Okinawa, this hearty variation includes layers of rice, egg (tamago), and thick slices of cooked pork or spam. It’s larger than typical onigiri and usually wrapped entirely in a sheet of nori. Filling and savory, it’s more of a complete meal than a snack.

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