Onigiri revolution: sushi rice as the secret ingredient?

Onigiri, also known as rice balls, are a staple of Japanese cuisine. These portable snacks are made with cooked rice that is formed into balls and typically filled with a variety of savory ingredients. While sushi rice is commonly used to make sushi, can you also use it to make onigiri?

What is Sushi Rice?

Sushi rice is a type of short-grain Japanese rice that is used to make sushi. It is known for its sticky texture, which helps to hold the sushi rolls together. Sushi rice is typically seasoned with vinegar, sugar, and salt before it is used.

What is Onigiri?

Onigiri are Japanese rice balls that are typically filled with savory ingredients such as tuna, salmon, umeboshi (pickled plum), or vegetables. They are a popular snack or lunch item in Japan and are often sold at convenience stores and supermarkets.

Can You Use Sushi Rice to Make Onigiri?

Yes, you can use sushi rice to make onigiri. However, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Sushi rice is stickier than regular rice. This can make it more difficult to form into balls, especially if you are not used to working with it.
• Sushi rice is seasoned with vinegar. This can give your onigiri a slightly sour flavor. If you do not want your onigiri to be sour, you can rinse the sushi rice before using it.
• Sushi rice is more expensive than regular rice. If you are on a budget, you may want to use regular rice instead.

How to Make Onigiri with Sushi Rice

If you want to make onigiri with sushi rice, follow these steps:

1. Cook the sushi rice according to the package directions.
2. Season the sushi rice with vinegar, sugar, and salt.
3. Let the sushi rice cool slightly.
4. Wet your hands with water. This will help to prevent the rice from sticking to your hands.
5. Take a handful of sushi rice and form it into a ball.
6. Make a well in the center of the rice ball.
7. Fill the well with your desired filling.
8. Close up the rice ball and shape it into a triangle or other desired shape.
9. Wrap the onigiri in plastic wrap or seaweed.

Tips for Making Onigiri with Sushi Rice

• If you are using sushi rice that has not been seasoned, you can add 1 tablespoon of vinegar, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt to every cup of cooked rice.
• If you are having trouble forming the rice balls, try using a rice mold.
• You can use any type of filling you like in your onigiri. Some popular fillings include tuna, salmon, umeboshi, and vegetables.
• Onigiri can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Benefits of Using Sushi Rice to Make Onigiri

There are several benefits to using sushi rice to make onigiri:

• Sushi rice is sticky. This helps to hold the onigiri together, even if you are using a filling that is not sticky.
• Sushi rice is flavorful. The vinegar, sugar, and salt seasoning gives the onigiri a slightly sour and savory flavor.
• Sushi rice is healthy. Sushi rice is a good source of carbohydrates, protein, and fiber.

Takeaways

Yes, you can use sushi rice to make onigiri. However, there are a few things to keep in mind, such as the stickiness and flavor of the rice. If you are looking for a delicious and portable snack, onigiri is a great option.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

Q: Can I use regular rice to make onigiri?
A: Yes, you can use regular rice to make onigiri. However, it is not as sticky as sushi rice, so it may be more difficult to form into balls.

Q: What are some popular fillings for onigiri?
A: Some popular fillings for onigiri include tuna, salmon, umeboshi, and vegetables.

Q: How long can I store onigiri?
A: Onigiri can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.