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Traditional Soul Food, “Onigiri”
Onigiri, also known as Japanese rice balls, has been a beloved part of Japanese food culture for centuries. Its history goes back to the Yayoi period, more than 1700 years ago, where rice balls were carried as a convenient meal during battles and journeys. Today, onigiri remains popular in bento boxes and convenience stores, appreciated for being easy to carry and nutritious. It can be said that the onigiri is the soul food for the Japanese.
Why Choose Onigiri?
Why is onigiri so popular in Japan? The answer lies in its healthiness and nutritional value. Made from steamed rice and natural ingredients, onigiri offers a healthy option for a snack or meal. It’s also incredibly convenient and portable, making it perfect for eating on the go. Onigiri is easy to pack and carry, making it ideal for picnics, lunch boxes, and quick snacks. Additionally, onigiri is versatile and customizable, with endless filling options that can be tailored to suit any taste preference or dietary need.
How to Make Onigiri, Rice Ball?
Making onigiri is simple, just shape cooked rice by hand and place a filling in the center. Traditional fillings are pickled plum (umeboshi), salted grilled salmon, cod roe (mentaiko), and seasoned kelp (kombu). Recently, new fillings like tuna mayo, grilled meat, and cheese have become popular, offering more variety in flavors. Onigiri is often wrapped in seaweed (nori) or sprinkled with salt to enhance its taste and keep it fresh.
Onigiri is more than just food; it holds a special place in Japanese hearts. It brings feelings of comfort and nostalgia, often reminding people of home-cooked meals. Each family’s onigiri may have its own unique taste, with fillings chosen to match personal preferences.
Where to Buy Onigiri in Japan?
In Japan, onigiri can be purchased in a variety of locations, making it a convenient snack or meal option for people on the go. Here are some of the most common places where you can buy onigiri.
Convenience Stores (Konbini):
Convenience stores like 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart are the most popular places to buy onigiri in Japan. They offer a wide range of flavors and fillings, and onigiri is often freshly stocked multiple times a day.
Supermarkets:
Supermarkets in Japan, such as Aeon, Seiyu, and Ito Yokado, also sell onigiri. These stores often have a larger selection, including more regional or seasonal varieties.
Train Stations (Ekiben Shops):
Many train stations, especially at major hubs and along bullet train (Shinkansen) routes, have ekiben (station bento) shops that sell onigiri as part of their bento boxes or as standalone items. These are great for travelers looking for a quick meal before boarding a train.
Department Store Food Halls (Depachika):
The basement levels of department stores, known as depachika, are known for their gourmet food offerings. You can find high-quality, often freshly made onigiri with premium ingredients at these locations.
Specialty Onigiri Shops:
There are also specialty shops dedicated to onigiri, such as “Onigiri Asakusa Yadoroku” in Tokyo, which is one of the oldest onigiri shops in Japan, “Omusubi Gonbei” with multiple locations or “Onigiri Bongo” the most popular onigiri restaurant in Japan. These shops often focus on traditional methods and high-quality ingredients.
Vending Machines:
In some locations, you might even find vending machines that sell onigiri, especially in places like hotels, rest stops, and some office buildings.
Food Stalls (Yatai) and Markets:
In local markets and at food stalls (yatai), particularly during festivals, you may come across vendors selling freshly made onigiri, sometimes with unique or regional fillings.
Online:
For those living in Japan, it is also possible to order onigiri from online grocery stores or delivery services that cater to local specialties.
Whether you’re in a bustling city or a quiet rural area, onigiri is widely available throughout Japan, making it easy to find this beloved rice ball wherever you go.
Traditonal and Modern Onigiris
Youtuber Matthew Li reported the traditional and modern onigiris from Japan. Take a look at his YouTube video! It is amazing!
Local Onigiri in Japan to the World
You can find different styles of onigiri across Japan. For example, in Niigata, “shio-musubi” is a simple yet flavorful onigiri made with local salt and Koshihikari rice. In Okinawa, “pork tamago onigiri,” featuring Spam and tamagoyaki (Japanese omelet), is a local favorite.
Onigiri’s appeal isn’t limited to Japan—it’s gaining popularity around the world. Tourists visiting Japan often enjoy onigiri as a quick and tasty way to experience Japanese cuisine. It’s also a popular souvenir and a great conversation starter. In San Francisco, Onigilly, a dedicated onigiri restaurant, was open in 2010. In 2012, Onigilly opened its first brick-and-mortar storefront in San Francisco’s Financial District. The restaurant has since expanded, continuing to bring its unique take on Japanese rice balls to more locations.
Let’s Explore Your Favorite Onigiri
ONIGIRIS.NET is on a global quest to explore and showcase the diverse world of onigiri. From traditional Japanese rice balls to unique international variations, we’re bringing you the best onigiri experiences from all corners of the globe. By joining our newsletter, you’ll stay updated on our latest discoveries, learn about different flavors and styles, and find inspiration to incorporate these delicious rice balls into your daily life. Whether you’re an onigiri enthusiast or just starting to explore, our newsletter is your gateway to discovering your new favorite onigiri. Join us on this exciting journey and bring the joy of onigiri into your everyday meals!
I love onigiri! I live in San Antonio and am so sad that there is no delicious onigiri shop here. Now, I could learn how to choose fillings so I will cook rice and try to make onigiri by myself.
This is amazing!