Japanese Onigiri (Rice Balls) with Various Fillings

Classic Japanese onigiri (rice balls) with a variety of traditional fillings, shaped by hand, plastic wrap, or a mold. Perfect for snacks or lunch boxes, with step-by-step instructions for each method and tips for keeping your onigiri fresh and delicious.

EasyJapaneseServes 6

Printable version with shopping checklist

Source Video
40m
Prep
35m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
1h 25m
Total

Cost Breakdown

Total cost:$17.70
Per serving:$2.95

Critical Success Points

  • • Cooking the rice properly and keeping it warm and moist.
  • • Salting and wetting hands or mold to prevent sticking and season the rice.
  • • Shaping the onigiri gently to avoid crushing the rice or having the filling leak out.

Safety Warnings

  • • Use caution when toasting nori over an open flame.
  • • Wash hands thoroughly before handling rice.
  • • Do not leave onigiri at room temperature for more than 6 hours to avoid foodborne illness.
← Back to All Recipes