***
Onigirazu is a delicious and fun Japanese dish that looks like a sandwich but uses rice as the bread. It’s simple to make and great for lunch or snacks. This recipe lets you create a portable meal that’s flavorful and satisfying. You can fill it with your favorite ingredients, making it a versatile choice for any meal.
Why make this recipe
Making Onigirazu is a fantastic idea because it is easy to customize. You can use various fillings and flavors, so it can suit different tastes. It’s also an excellent way to enjoy rice in a new form. Plus, Onigirazu is perfect for meal prep or a quick lunch on the go.
How to make Onigirazu
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked sushi rice
- 4 sheets of nori (seaweed)
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 cup cooked protein (like chicken, tofu, or shrimp)
- Soy sauce or teriyaki sauce (for seasoning)
- Optional: pickled vegetables, lettuce, or other veggies
Directions:
- Start by preparing your sushi rice according to package instructions and let it cool slightly.
- On a clean, flat surface, place one sheet of nori shiny side down.
- Scoop about half a cup of rice onto the center of the nori. Use wet hands to help prevent sticking.
- In the middle of the rice, add your protein, cucumber, avocado, and any other fillings you like.
- Drizzle a little soy sauce or teriyaki sauce over the fillings for extra flavor.
- Fold the sides of the nori over the filling, then fold the top and bottom to make a square-shaped package.
- Press gently to seal and hold the shape.
- Repeat steps 2 to 7 for the remaining sheets of nori and ingredients.
- Slice the Onigirazu in half to serve, if desired.
How to serve Onigirazu
You can serve Onigirazu as is, or with a side of soy sauce for dipping. It makes a great lunch, snack, or picnic food. You can also add some salad or fruit on the side for a complete meal.
How to store Onigirazu
If you have leftovers, store Onigirazu in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for about one day. You can also wrap them in plastic wrap to keep them from drying out.
Tips to make Onigirazu
- Use freshly cooked sushi rice for the best texture.
- Feel free to mix and match your fillings based on what you like.
- If you want extra flavor, toast the nori lightly before assembling.
- Make sure to press the nori well so it holds together when you eat it.
Variation
You can vary the fillings to include grilled vegetables, different proteins, or even spicy mayo for a little kick. For a vegetarian option, add more vegetables and tofu. You can also use brown rice instead of white rice for a healthier twist.
FAQs
Q: Can I make Onigirazu ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare Onigirazu a few hours in advance. Just store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Q: How do I make vegan Onigirazu?
A: For a vegan version, use tofu or tempeh as your protein and fill it with vegetables and avocado.
Q: Can I use other kinds of rice?
A: While sushi rice is recommended for its stickiness, you can use other types of rice, but the texture may change.
Q: Is Onigirazu gluten-free?
A: Yes, Onigirazu can be gluten-free if you use gluten-free soy sauce. Check your other fillings to ensure they are gluten-free as well.