What Can You Put in Onigiri: Delicious Ideas for Your Next Creation

Unlock the World of Onigiri Fillings

Onigiri, those delightful Japanese rice balls, offer a simple but incredibly satisfying way to enjoy a meal or snack. With their soft, seasoned rice exterior and the flavorful surprise inside, the variations are endless. If you're already a fan of the classic onigiri, then get ready to take your rice ball game to the next level with a whole range of exciting fillings. If you're new to the wonderful world of onigiri, you're in for a treat!

The Classics: Tried and True Favorites

Let's start with the beloved traditional Japanese fillings that have stood the test of time:

• Salted Salmon (Shake): A quintessential onigiri ingredient, the saltiness of the salmon balances beautifully with the rice. You can grill, bake, or even use canned salmon for easy preparation.

• Umeboshi (Pickled Plum): These intensely sour, salty plums offer a flavor burst that's both surprising and addictive.

• Tuna Mayo: A simple yet satisfying mix of tuna and mayonnaise – a popular choice that’s always reliable.

• Okaka (Bonito Flakes with Soy Sauce): The savory and slightly smoky bonito flakes seasoned with soy sauce add fantastic depth of flavor.

Beyond the Basics: Explore Exciting Variations

Feeling adventurous? Try these delicious twists on traditional fillings:

• Spicy Tuna Mayo: Add a kick to your tuna mayo with sriracha, chili oil, or chopped kimchi.

• Teriyaki Chicken: Shredded teriyaki chicken creates a sweet and savory flavor explosion.

• Takuan (Pickled Daikon): Enjoy the satisfying crunch and subtly tangy taste of pickled daikon radish.

• Mentaiko (Spicy Cod Roe): This spicy, creamy delicacy adds a unique and slightly briny flavor.

Vegetarian and Vegan Delights

Onigiri can be just as delightful for those following plant-based diets:

• Kombu (Seaweed): Simmered kombu adds a rich umami flavor and a touch of the sea.

• Pickled vegetables: Get creative with your favorite pickled veggies, from cucumbers and carrots to burdock root.

• Edamame with Sesame: Add a boost of protein and a hint of nuttiness with crushed edamame and toasted sesame seeds.

• Shiitake Mushrooms: Sautéed with soy sauce, shiitake mushrooms create a savory and satisfying bite.

Getting Creative: Outside-the-Box Fillings

The fun of onigiri lies in how customizable it is. Think outside the box and play with flavors!

• Breakfast Onigiri: Fill with scrambled eggs, sausage, and a little cheese for on-the-go breakfast goodness.

• Kimchi and Cream Cheese: The spicy kick of kimchi pairs surprisingly well with the creaminess of the cheese.

• Leftovers: Got some leftover stir-fry or chicken? Chop it up and use it as a filling. Onigiri is a great way to repurpose leftovers and minimize food waste!

Tips for Perfect Onigiri Fillings

• Season your rice: A little bit of salt in the rice goes a long way in enhancing the flavors.

• Balance textures: Combine crunchy, soft, and creamy ingredients for an exciting textural experience.

• Don't overfill: Overstuffed onigiri can fall apart easily. Find a balance between a generous filling and a rice ball that stays intact.

Where to buy Onigiri Nori?: Amazon

Let us know your favorite Onigiri creations!

We hope this expanded your culinary horizons when it comes to filling your onigiri! Share your favorite combinations or any wild experiments you've tried in the comments below – we love hearing about new and delicious flavor profiles.