Japanese > Rice > Onigiri

Umecha Onigiri Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups Japanese short-grain rice
- 2 tablespoons umeboshi paste
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
- 2 tablespoons furikake

Special Equipment Needed:
- Rice cooker
- Plastic wrap
- Onigiri mold (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the rice in a rice cooker according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. Once the rice is cooked, transfer it to a large bowl and let it cool for 10 minutes.
3. Add the umeboshi paste and mix it into the rice until it is evenly distributed.
4. Take a handful of the rice and shape it into a triangle or ball.
5. If using an onigiri mold, press the rice into the mold and then remove it.
6. Place the onigiri on a sheet of plastic wrap and sprinkle with the sesame seeds and furikake.
7. Wrap the onigiri in the plastic wrap and shape it into a triangle or ball.
8. Serve the onigiri at room temperature.

Time:
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Temperature: Room temperature
Serving Size: Makes 8 onigiri

Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 150
Fat: 2.5g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Protein: 3g

Substitutions for Ingredients
- Umeboshi paste can be substituted with pickled plum paste.
- Toasted sesame seeds can be substituted with black sesame seeds.
- Furikake can be substituted with other types of Japanese seasoning.

Variations:
- The onigiri can be filled with other ingredients such as salmon, tuna, or pickled vegetables.
- The onigiri can be grilled or fried for a different texture.

Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to cool the rice before adding the umeboshi paste, as it will help the paste to mix into the rice more evenly.
- To make the onigiri easier to shape, wet your hands with water before shaping the onigiri.

Storage Instructions:
Onigiri can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions:
Onigiri can be reheated in the microwave for 1 minute or in a toaster oven for 3-5 minutes.

Presentation Ideas:
Onigiri can be served on a plate with a side of soy sauce and wasabi.

Garnishes:
Onigiri can be garnished with toasted sesame seeds, furikake, or chopped scallions.

Pairings:
Onigiri pairs well with miso soup, pickled vegetables, and Japanese tea.

Suggested Side Dishes:
Onigiri can be served with a side of edamame, seaweed salad, or tempura.

Troubleshooting Advice:
If the onigiri is difficult to shape, wet your hands with water before shaping the onigiri.

Food Safety Advice:
Onigiri should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consumed within 3 days.

Food History:
Onigiri is a traditional Japanese food that has been eaten for centuries. It is believed to have originated during the Heian period (794-1185).

Flavor Profiles:
Onigiri has a salty and savory flavor from the umeboshi paste, and a nutty flavor from the toasted sesame seeds and furikake.

Serving Suggestions:
Onigiri can be served as a snack or as part of a bento box.

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Region: Japanese

Taste: Savory, Salty, Sour, Umami