Filled Onigiri Rice Balls

Name: Filled Onigiri Rice Balls
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 480 ml Water; 5 g Salt; 4 sheets Nori seaweed sheets; 140 g Canned tuna in water, drained; 30 ml Mayonnaise; 5 ml Soy sauce

Difficulty

easy

Time

40m

Price Category

cheap

Calories

Medium

Onigiri, the iconic Japanese rice ball, is a perfect choice for a quick lunch, picnic, or snack. These hand-shaped, savory rice balls are often wrapped in nori seaweed and can be enriched with a variety of delicious fillings. Prepare your own version to your taste with this simple recipe and enjoy the flavors of Japan at home!

ingredients

4 Servings

480 ml Water5 g Salt4 sheets Nori seaweed sheets140 g Canned tuna in water, drained30 ml Mayonnaise5 ml Soy sauce

Steps

Prepare the Rice

Rinse the rice thoroughly in cold water until the water runs clear. Place the rice in a pot with water, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15 minutes until all water is absorbed. Let it rest, covered, for 10 minutes, then fluff with a fork.

Prepare the Filling

In a small bowl, combine the drained tuna with mayonnaise and soy sauce. Mix well until creamy.

Shape Onigiri

Wet your hands with lightly salted water. Take a handful of cooked rice (about 80-100g), flatten it in your palm. Place a teaspoon of tuna filling in the center, then carefully shape it into a triangle or oval ball, ensuring the filling stays inside. Repeat with the remaining rice and filling.

Serve

Cut the nori sheets into strips. Wrap a strip of nori around each rice ball for easier handling and eating. Serve immediately or pack for a snack.

Extra Tips

► When shaping the rice balls, wet your hands with water or lightly salted water to prevent the rice from sticking.

► Experiment with different fillings such as grilled salmon, umeboshi (pickled plum), or teriyaki chicken.

► Wrap the nori sheets around the rice balls just before serving to keep them crispy.

Nutrition

	Per 100g	Per Serving 200g
Calories	180 kcal	360 kcal
Protein	6g	12g
Fat	3g	6g
Carbohydrate	32g	64g
Fiber	1g	2g
Sugar	0.5g	1g