Onigirazu Recipe: Japanese Rice Sandwiches Made Easy

Introduction

Onigirazu, also known as Japanese rice sandwiches, is a fun and delicious twist on the classic sandwich. Perfect as a light lunch, a quick snack, or even a party showstopper, these beautifully wrapped parcels are as versatile as they are tasty. With seasoned sushi rice and nori replacing bread, they’re a unique and healthier alternative to regular sandwiches.

Customize the fillings to suit any taste—try tofu, tuna, salmon, chicken, or even eggs for a vegetarian option. To make it even easier, I’ve included a step-by-step recipe with photos to guide you through the process. Ready to impress your guests and elevate your sandwich game? Let’s get started!

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What is Onigirazu?

Onigirazu is a modern twist on the traditional Japanese onigiri, a beloved rice ball filled with savory ingredients and wrapped in nori seaweed. Unlike onigiri, which requires hand-molding into its classic triangular shape, onigirazu is assembled like a sandwich—flat, layered, and packed with vibrant fillings. These Japanese rice sandwiches are not only delicious but also highly customizable, making them perfect for bento boxes, picnics, or party platters.

The History of Onigirazu

The concept of onigirazu was first introduced in the 1990s through a Japanese manga series called Cooking Papa. It presented these sushi sandwiches as a quick and versatile alternative to onigiri, capturing the imagination of home cooks. Unlike traditional onigiri, which has been a staple in Japanese cuisine for centuries, onigirazu embraced a more contemporary style that appeals to busy lifestyles.

What sets onigirazu apart is its flexibility. It allows for endless filling options—from classic Japanese flavors like teriyaki chicken, tuna mayo, or smoked salmon, to more creative or vegetarian-friendly combinations like smoked tofu, egg salad, or grilled vegetables. This adaptability has made onigirazu a global favorite for those looking to explore authentic Japanese cuisine in a fresh, modern way.

Why Onigirazu Stands Out

Onigirazu is more than just a sandwich. Its sushi rice base gives it a unique texture, while the nori wrapping keeps the fillings secure and adds a delightful umami flavor. It’s an ideal choice for meal prep, as it stays fresh and travels well, making it a favorite addition to Japanese bento boxes or as a creative party snack.

Whether you’re new to Japanese cooking or a seasoned fan, onigirazu offers the perfect balance of tradition and modern flair. Its endless variations mean you can enjoy it with your favorite fillings, all while experiencing the best of Japanese rice dishes in a portable, easy-to-make format.

Other Filling Options for Onigirazu

One of the best things about onigirazu is its versatility. While smoked tofu is a fantastic choice, you can easily swap it out for other delicious fillings to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are some popular options to inspire your creativity:

Tuna Mayo

A classic Japanese filling, tuna mayo combines canned tuna with Japanese mayonnaise for a creamy and flavorful option. Add a splash of soy sauce or a sprinkle of black pepper to enhance the flavor. For a more elevated and fresh twist, you can use seared tuna steak instead. Lightly season the tuna steak with salt and pepper, sear it quickly on high heat to keep the center rare, and slice it thinly. This option adds a luxurious texture and depth of flavor to your onigirazu.

Smoked Salmon

Thinly sliced smoked salmon is perfect for seafood lovers. Pair it with cream cheese or avocado for a luxurious twist. A touch of dill or lemon zest can also elevate the flavor. For a lighter and equally delicious option, poached salmon can be used. Simply cook the salmon gently in seasoned water, then flake it into small pieces. The poached salmon brings a tender texture and subtle flavor that works beautifully in onigirazu.

Teriyaki Chicken

Cooked and sliced chicken breast glazed in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce makes a hearty filling. Add some shredded lettuce or julienned carrots for crunch and balance.

Egg Salad

A creamy and satisfying vegetarian option, egg salad pairs wonderfully with the soft sushi rice. Mix boiled, chopped eggs with Japanese mayo, a pinch of salt, and a touch of mustard for extra flavor. For added variety, you can place a whole boiled egg in the center of the onigirazu, surrounded by the creamy egg salad. This creates a striking visual and adds a unique texture to each bite.

Pulled Pork, Beef, or Sliced Steak

For a fusion twist, try shredded, slow-cooked pork or beef with a hint of BBQ sauce or teriyaki glaze. This filling is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for those who love meaty sandwiches. For a more refined option, thinly sliced steak works beautifully as well. Lightly season the steak, cook it to your preferred doneness, and slice it thinly to create a rich and satisfying filling with a tender bite.

Choosing the Best Rice for Onigirazu

The key to perfect onigirazu lies in the rice. Traditional sushi rice is the best option because of its sticky texture, which holds the fillings together and ensures the sandwich doesn’t fall apart. Here’s what to consider when choosing and preparing rice:

1. Use Short-Grain Sushi Rice

Short-grain rice is ideal for onigirazu as it has a naturally sticky consistency. Avoid long-grain varieties like basmati or jasmine, which are too dry and won’t hold their shape.

• Recommended Rice: Premium Sushi Rice – Perfect for achieving that authentic Japanese texture and flavor.

2. Season the Rice Properly

Seasoning sushi rice with a mixture of rice vinegar, sugar, and salt is essential. This adds the slightly tangy flavor that complements the other ingredients.

3. Invest in a Rice Cooker

A rice cooker takes the guesswork out of cooking sushi rice. It ensures evenly cooked, fluffy rice every time. If you frequently cook dishes like onigirazu or sushi, it’s a worthwhile investment.

• Recommended Rice Cooker: Using a rice cooker takes the guesswork out of cooking sushi rice, ensuring evenly cooked, fluffy rice every time. I use this rice cooker, and it’s been a game-changer in my kitchen. If you often make dishes like onigirazu, sushi, or rice bowls, it’s a worthwhile investment.

4. Cool the Rice Before Assembly

Once cooked, let the rice cool to room temperature before using it. Hot rice can make the nori soggy and difficult to handle.

By choosing the right rice and cooking it properly, you’ll create the perfect foundation for your onigirazu. If you’re looking for the best tools and ingredients, check out the links above to elevate your cooking game!

Step-by-Step Instructions on how to make Onigirazu:

Making onigirazu is easier than it looks! Follow these step-by-step instructions, and you’ll have beautifully layered Japanese rice sandwiches in no time. The photos below will guide you through each stage for a foolproof result.

1. Prepare Your Ingredients

Prepare your fillings: blanch the okra, pan-fry the smoked tofu, and slice all vegetables.

Cook and season your sushi rice with rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Let it cool to room temperature.

2. Place the Nori Sheet and Metal Ring

• Place a metal ring in the center of the nori sheet.
• Lay a sheet of nori on a clean surface, shiny side down.
• Wet your fingers to prevent sticking and spread a thin layer of sushi rice inside the ring. Press gently to flatten.

3. Start Layering Fillings

• Add spinach or salad leaves as the first layer.
• Follow with bell peppers, carrots, a slice of smoked tofu, and blanched okra.
• Drizzle with a bit of Japanese mayo or soy sauce for extra flavor.

4. Top with Another Layer of Rice

• Add another thin layer of rice to cover the fillings. Press gently to keep everything compact.

5. Remove the Metal Ring

• Slowly lift the metal ring upwards, leaving your perfectly shaped onigirazu intact.

6. Wrap with Nori & Film

• Carefully fold the edges of the nori over the top of the rice. If needed, use small pieces of extra nori to patch any gaps.
• Use cling film to tightly wrap the onigirazu. This helps hold its shape and makes slicing easier.

9. Slice and Serve

• Garnish with nigella seeds or sesame seeds and serve with soy sauce or Japanese mayo.
• Use a sharp knife to cut the onigirazu in half. Wipe the blade between cuts for clean edges.

Recipe Card for Onigirazu – Japanese Rice Sandwiches:

A Few Words from the Chef

I’m a big fan of sushi, and onigirazu is such an amazing twist on the traditional flavors I love. It’s a fun, creative way to enjoy the deliciousness of sushi in a portable, sandwich-style form. The endless filling possibilities make it even more exciting, and I hope you have as much fun making these as I do. If you try this recipe, let me know your favorite combinations in the comments below. Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite of these delightful rice sandwiches! 🍙

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