Onigiri, a simple yet endlessly versatile Japanese dish, has captured the hearts of food lovers worldwide thanks to the explosion of Japanese restaurants around the world.

These rice balls, traditionally filled with various ingredients and wrapped in seaweed, have been around for centuries, but their charm hasn't faded one bit.

Wondering what all the fuss is about? Let's dive into the delightful world of onigiri.

The Classic Staples

At its core, onigiri is all about the rice, and not just any rice - Japanese short-grain rice is the star. It's sticky enough to hold its shape without being mushy, and this makes it perfect for handheld goodness. Traditional fillings include salted plum (umeboshi), grilled salmon, and kombu (edible kelp). These classics are both simple and packed with umami flavor, a cornerstone of Japanese cuisine. Prices in Tokyo for a classic salmon-filled onigiri can range from ¥260 to ¥319 ($1.70 to $2.20), and you’ll often get miso soup and green tea with it at specialty spots​.

Creative Combinations – What’s Your Pick?

While traditional onigiri still reigns supreme, modern twists are becoming increasingly popular. Imagine biting into a rice ball filled with cream cheese and Japanese pickles, or even avocado and spicy mentaiko (fish roe). Some places, like Taro Tokyo Onigiri, have started experimenting by adding toppings like spicy tuna, spam, or even soft-boiled eggs. Prices remain wallet-friendly, with more adventurous flavors costing around ¥250-¥300 ($1.70-$2)​. There’s an onigiri out there for everyone!

Sweet Surprises

If you thought onigiri was just savory, think again. Sweet versions, while less common, are definitely worth exploring. Some feature red bean paste fillings, offering a pleasant contrast to the savory seaweed exterior. These are perfect for a light dessert or snack, balancing sweetness with the satisfying texture of rice. Onigiri’s simplicity lends itself well to both savory and sweet applications, which is part of its universal appeal.

1. Salted Plum (Umeboshi) Onigiri

Ingredients:

- Cooked short-grain white rice (2 cups)

- Umeboshi (pickled plum) (2-3 pieces)

- Salt (to taste)

- Nori (seaweed), optional

Step-by-Step Recipe:

1. Prepare freshly cooked rice and let it cool slightly.

2. Wet your hands with water, sprinkle salt on them, and take a small handful of rice.

3. Create an indentation in the rice and place one umeboshi in the center.

4. Cover the umeboshi with more rice and gently shape the onigiri into a triangle.

5. Optionally, wrap the bottom of the rice ball with a piece of nori for extra flavor and texture​

2. Grilled Salmon Onigiri

Ingredients:

- Cooked short-grain rice (2 cups)

- Grilled salmon (2-3 tbsp, flaked)

- Salt (to taste)

- Nori (optional)

Step-by-Step Recipe:

1. Grill a small piece of salmon and flake it into smaller pieces.

2. Wet your hands with water and salt, then take a handful of rice.

3. Place some grilled salmon in the center of the rice and cover with more rice.

4. Shape into a triangle or ball, and optionally wrap with nori.

From its ancient roots to its modern incarnations, onigiri continues to satisfy cravings across the globe. Why not give it a try? Next time you’re in the mood for a quick bite, swap out your usual snack for a delightful rice ball!