Onigiri: Difference between revisions
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'''Onigiri''' also known as ''' | {{Short description|A traditional Japanese rice ball snack}} | ||
{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2023}} | |||
==Onigiri== | |||
[[File:Onigiri.jpg|thumb|right|A selection of onigiri with various fillings]] | |||
'''Onigiri''', also known as '''omusubi''' or '''nigirimeshi''', is a popular [[Japanese cuisine|Japanese food]] item consisting of [[rice]] formed into triangular or cylindrical shapes and often wrapped in [[nori]] (seaweed). Onigiri is a staple in Japanese culture, commonly found in [[bento]] boxes, convenience stores, and homemade lunches. | |||
==History== | ==History== | ||
The | The history of onigiri dates back to ancient Japan, where it was used as a portable meal for travelers and warriors. The first recorded mention of onigiri is in the "Manyoshu," a collection of Japanese poems from the 8th century. Traditionally, onigiri was made with plain rice, but over time, various fillings and seasonings have been introduced. | ||
==Preparation== | ==Preparation== | ||
Onigiri is made by | [[File:Onigiri preparation.jpg|thumb|left|Preparing onigiri by hand]] | ||
Onigiri is typically made by shaping cooked [[Japanese rice|short-grain rice]] into a ball, triangle, or cylinder. The rice is often seasoned with [[salt]] to enhance flavor and preserve the onigiri. Fillings such as [[umeboshi]] (pickled plum), [[salmon]], [[tuna]], and [[kombu]] (kelp) are commonly used. The rice ball is then wrapped partially or entirely in nori. | |||
==Varieties== | ==Varieties== | ||
There are | There are numerous varieties of onigiri, each with unique fillings and seasonings. Some popular types include: | ||
* '''Umeboshi Onigiri''': Filled with a sour pickled plum, providing a tangy contrast to the rice. | |||
* '''Salmon Onigiri''': Contains grilled or salted salmon, offering a savory flavor. | |||
* '''Tuna Mayo Onigiri''': A modern variation filled with tuna mixed with mayonnaise. | |||
* '''Kombu Onigiri''': Filled with seasoned kelp, offering a subtle umami taste. | |||
==Cultural Significance== | |||
Onigiri holds a special place in Japanese culture, often associated with home-cooked meals and comfort food. It is a symbol of care and affection, frequently prepared by parents for their children's school lunches. Onigiri is also a popular choice for [[hanami]] (flower viewing) picnics and other outdoor activities. | |||
== | ==Related pages== | ||
* [[Japanese cuisine]] | |||
* [[Bento]] | |||
* [[Nori]] | |||
* [[Umeboshi]] | |||
* [[Rice]] | |||
[[Category:Japanese cuisine]] | [[Category:Japanese cuisine]] | ||
[[Category:Rice dishes]] | [[Category:Rice dishes]] | ||
[[Category:Snack foods]] | |||
Revision as of 17:42, 18 February 2025
A traditional Japanese rice ball snack
Onigiri

Onigiri, also known as omusubi or nigirimeshi, is a popular Japanese food item consisting of rice formed into triangular or cylindrical shapes and often wrapped in nori (seaweed). Onigiri is a staple in Japanese culture, commonly found in bento boxes, convenience stores, and homemade lunches.
History
The history of onigiri dates back to ancient Japan, where it was used as a portable meal for travelers and warriors. The first recorded mention of onigiri is in the "Manyoshu," a collection of Japanese poems from the 8th century. Traditionally, onigiri was made with plain rice, but over time, various fillings and seasonings have been introduced.
Preparation
Onigiri is typically made by shaping cooked short-grain rice into a ball, triangle, or cylinder. The rice is often seasoned with salt to enhance flavor and preserve the onigiri. Fillings such as umeboshi (pickled plum), salmon, tuna, and kombu (kelp) are commonly used. The rice ball is then wrapped partially or entirely in nori.
Varieties
There are numerous varieties of onigiri, each with unique fillings and seasonings. Some popular types include:
- Umeboshi Onigiri: Filled with a sour pickled plum, providing a tangy contrast to the rice.
- Salmon Onigiri: Contains grilled or salted salmon, offering a savory flavor.
- Tuna Mayo Onigiri: A modern variation filled with tuna mixed with mayonnaise.
- Kombu Onigiri: Filled with seasoned kelp, offering a subtle umami taste.
Cultural Significance
Onigiri holds a special place in Japanese culture, often associated with home-cooked meals and comfort food. It is a symbol of care and affection, frequently prepared by parents for their children's school lunches. Onigiri is also a popular choice for hanami (flower viewing) picnics and other outdoor activities.