Classic Onigiri

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1. 1Step 1: Choose your rice: Japanese short-grain rice (sushi rice) is ideal for onigiri.
2. 2Step 2: Wash the rice: Very important—rinse several times in cold water until the water runs clear.
3. 3Step 3: Cook the rice: There are several ways to do this, but you can't go wrong with our sushi rice recipe: Sushi Rice Recipe. After cooking, leave the rice to stand briefly.
4. 4Step 4: Season: Either keep it simple and season the rice, as in our sushi rice recipe, with Kikkoman Seasoning for Sushi Rice, or use a mix of 2 tbsp rice vinegar, 20 g sugar and 5 g salt.
5. 5Step 5: Prepare the filling: Whether fish, meat or vegetables—chop finely or mash.
6. 6Step 6: Shape: Take some rice in your hand, place the filling in the centre and gently form it into a ball. Handy tip for keeping your hands clean: lay the rice on a piece of cling film, place the filling in the middle and twist the film tightly around it. This gives the onigiri a compact, stable shape with minimal fuss. You can also use plastic onigiri moulds or an onigiri maker—this makes it even easier.
7. 7Step 7: Wrap: Just before eating, wrap in nori—this holds everything together nicely.