Tanuki onigiri, or "raccoon dog" rice balls, are a playful and delicious Japanese snack that's surprisingly simple to make at home. These aren't your average rice balls; the "tanuki" element refers to the clever use of ingredients that mimic the texture and appearance of a raccoon dog's fluffy fur. Instead of actual meat, we'll be using a clever combination of ingredients to achieve that satisfying, savory bite. Prepare to be charmed by their cute appearance and impressed by the surprisingly complex flavors that result from this deceptively simple recipe.
This article will guide you through two variations: a classic and a spicy version. Both utilize easily accessible ingredients, offering a fun culinary adventure whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice. Ready to create your own adorable and tasty Tanuki onigiri? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions below!
Tools Needed
Ingredients
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients & Classic Filling
- finely chop onions and green onions. Cut baby cheese into 1cm pieces.
- Season tempura scraps with soy sauce and let it soak. Mix rice, seasoned tempura scraps, sesame oil, and finally, onions. Mix well.
Step 2. Shape Classic Tanuki Onigiri
- Shape the classic rice balls using an onigiri mold or your hands.
Step 3. Prepare Spicy Filling & Shape Spicy Onigiri
- Heat mirin in a microwave for 30 seconds to evaporate alcohol. Add soy sauce, sugar, and dashi, mix well until sugar dissolves.
- Mix rice, the sauce mixture, tempura scraps, baby cheese, chili peppers, sesame oil, and finally, green onions.
- Shape the spicy rice balls firmly, wet your hands to help.
Step 4. Grill Spicy Tanuki Onigiri
- Heat sesame oil in a frying pan. Place rice balls and cook over medium heat for about 3 minutes per side, until nicely browned.
Read more: Ochazuke Recipe: Easy Japanese Green Tea Rice Bowl
Tips
- Add onions last to the Tanuki Onigiri to prevent excess moisture.
- For firmer grilled rice balls, squeeze them firmly twice and let them rest for 10 minutes before grilling.
- Adjust the amount of soy sauce and seasoning to your preference. The recipe provides a base, you can always customize it.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. What does 'Tanuki' mean in Tanuki Onigiri?
'Tanuki' refers to the raccoon dog. The onigiri are named this because the ingredients create a fluffy, slightly deceiving texture similar to a raccoon dog's fur.
2. Can I use different fillings for Tanuki Onigiri?
Absolutely! While this recipe uses a specific combination, you can experiment with other savory ingredients like finely chopped vegetables, different types of dried seaweed, or even small pieces of cooked meat.
3. How do I keep my Tanuki Onigiri from falling apart?
Gently but firmly shape the rice balls, ensuring the rice is slightly damp. Using a dampened hand helps prevent sticking and maintains the shape. You can also use plastic wrap to help form them.
So there you have it – two delicious and surprisingly easy Tanuki Onigiri recipes to add to your culinary repertoire. Whether you opt for the classic or spicy version, these adorable rice balls are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Now go forth and create your own fluffy, flavorful, and fun raccoon dog rice balls!