Craving a quick, delicious, and authentically Japanese snack or meal? Look no further than okaka onigiri, savory rice balls bursting with umami flavor. These delightful treats are incredibly versatile, perfect for a picnic, a quick lunch, or even a sophisticated appetizer. The simple yet satisfying combination of fluffy rice, savory bonito flakes (okaka), and a touch of soy sauce creates a taste sensation that's both comforting and exciting. Their compact size makes them ideal for on-the-go eating, and the customizable fillings allow for endless variations.
Ready to experience the joy of making your own perfectly formed okaka onigiri? This easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through each step, from cooking the rice to shaping the onigiri, ensuring perfectly delicious results every time. Let's get started!
Tools Needed
- Large bowl
- Spatula
- Onigiri molds (optional)
- Plastic wrap (optional)
Ingredients
- Bonito flakes (Okaka): 15g
- Soy sauce: 1/2 tbsp
- Toasted white sesame seeds: 1 tbsp
- Toasted sesame oil: 1/2 tbsp
- Sugar: 1/2 tsp
- Dashi granules: 1/4 tsp
- Cooked Japanese rice: 600g
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Okaka Filling
- In a large bowl, combine bonito flakes, soy sauce, sesame seeds, sesame oil, sugar, and dashi granules. Mix until flakes are saturated.
Step 2. Combine Rice and Filling
- Add 600g of cooked Japanese rice to the bowl and mix until evenly distributed.
Step 3. Shape the Onigiri
- Wash and briefly submerge your hands in ice water. Grab a handful of rice, gently press it into your palm, rotate, and press to form a triangular shape.
- Press rice gently into onigiri molds, ensuring it's filled to the top. Press firmly with the lid, then remove the mold.
- Place rice in the center of plastic wrap, lift the edges to wrap, and gently press to form the desired shape.
Read more: Ochazuke Recipe: Easy Japanese Green Tea Rice Bowl
Tips
- For uniform onigiri, divide the rice equally before shaping.
- Use an unfolding motion with your spatula to mix the rice and prevent crushing.
- Don't overpack the rice in molds or it will fall apart.
- If freezing onigiri, add nori just before eating to maintain crispness.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use pre-cooked rice for okaka onigiri?
Yes, pre-cooked rice works well, but make sure it's slightly cooled and not too sticky or wet. You may need to adjust the amount of seasoning slightly.
2. What if I don't have bonito flakes (okaka)?
While okaka provides the signature flavor, you can substitute with other ingredients like sesame oil, furikake seasoning, or even finely chopped seaweed for a different taste profile.
3. How do I prevent the onigiri from falling apart?
Gently but firmly shape the onigiri, ensuring the rice is slightly moist but not overly wet. Wetting your hands slightly before shaping can help.
So there you have it – perfectly delicious okaka onigiri ready in just 15 minutes! This simple recipe is a testament to the beauty of Japanese cuisine: quick, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Enjoy your homemade rice balls, and don't hesitate to experiment with different fillings and seasonings to create your own unique variations.