Yaki Onigiri with Furikake
Yaki onigiri with furikake is a delicious and popular Japanese dish. Onigiri, also known as rice balls, are a staple of Japanese cuisine. They are made by shaping cooked rice into a triangle or oval shape, often with a filling or seasoning. Yaki onigiri refers to grilled or pan-fried onigiri, which adds a crispy texture and smoky flavor to the rice.
Furikake is a Japanese seasoning made with a mixture of dried and ground ingredients such as seaweed, sesame seeds, bonito flakes, and salt. It is commonly sprinkled on rice, noodles, or used as a seasoning for various dishes to enhance their flavor.
To make yaki onigiri with furikake, you can follow these steps:
- Cook the rice: Use short-grain Japanese rice or any other sticky rice variety. Cook the rice according to the instructions on the package.
- Shape the onigiri: While the rice is still hot, wet your hands with water to prevent sticking, and then take a small handful of rice and shape it into a triangle or oval shape. You can also make a small indentation in the center of the onigiri and fill it with your desired filling, such as pickled plum, grilled salmon, or any other ingredient you like.
- Sprinkle with furikake: Sprinkle furikake on a plate or in a shallow bowl. Roll the shaped onigiri in the furikake to coat the surface evenly. Gently press the furikake onto the rice to help it adhere.
- Grill or pan-fry the onigiri: Heat a grill pan or non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place the furikake-coated onigiri on the heated pan and cook for a few minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and crispy.
- Serve and enjoy: Once the yaki onigiri are nicely browned, remove them from the heat and let them cool slightly. You can serve them as they are or wrap them in a strip of nori seaweed for added flavor and presentation.
Yaki onigiri with furikake is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a snack, part of a bento box, or even as a meal on its own. The crispy exterior, savory rice, and flavorful furikake make it a delightful and satisfying Japanese treat.