Tokyo Yaki Onigiri

Introduction to Tokyo Yaki Onigiri

Tokyo Yaki Onigiri is a delightful take on the traditional Japanese rice ball, known as onigiri. This version is grilled, giving it a crispy exterior and a savory aroma, elevated by the umami-rich sauce that often accompanies it. A staple in Japanese culture, onigiri has been enjoyed for centuries and continues to be a popular snack or meal on-the-go. In the bustling city of Tokyo, street vendors and cozy izakayas have adopted the grilling method to add a layer of texture and flavor, thus creating the beloved Tokyo Yaki Onigiri.

History of Onigiri

Onigiri, or rice ball, has a history that dates back to Japan’s Heian period (794-1185), when it was referenced in literature as a convenient and portable meal. Originally a way to preserve rice by shaping it into balls and wrapping it in nori or seaweed, onigiri has evolved over time to include a variety of fillings and seasonings. The Tokyo Yaki Onigiri is a modern twist on this classic, incorporating grilling techniques to create a unique and flavorful rice ball.

Ingredients

• Rice - 2 cups of short-grain Japanese rice
• Water - for rinsing and cooking the rice
• Soy Sauce - 3 tablespoons
• Mirin - 2 tablespoons
• Nori - 2 sheets, cut into strips
• Sesame Seeds - 2 tablespoons, toasted
• Sesame Oil - for grilling
• Salt - to taste

Preparation

Step 1: Cooking the Rice

1. Rinse the rice in cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming too sticky.
2. Cook the rice either in a rice cooker or by boiling it with the proper amount of water. Allow it to rest for 10-15 minutes once cooked to fully absorb any remaining moisture.

Step 2: Seasoning

1. Mix soy sauce, mirin, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. This will be used to coat and flavor the onigiri while grilling.
2. Toast sesame seeds in a dry pan over medium heat until fragrant. Set aside.

Cooking Process

Step 3: Shaping the Onigiri

1. With wet hands to prevent sticking, take a small handful of cooked rice and shape it into a triangle or ball. This is the traditional shape for onigiri.
2. Wrap each rice ball with a strip of nori and press gently to secure.

Step 4: Grilling the Onigiri

1. Heat a grill pan over medium heat and brush lightly with sesame oil.
2. Place the shaped onigiri on the grill pan and cook until each side is golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Brush the soy sauce and mirin mixture over each onigiri while grilling, allowing it to soak in and create a savory glaze. Make sure to flip occasionally to prevent burning.

How to Enjoy Tokyo Yaki Onigiri

Tokyo Yaki Onigiri can be enjoyed as a snack on its own or as part of a larger meal. For a full experience, pair it with a side of pickled vegetables and a bowl of miso soup. The crispy exterior makes each bite satisfying, while the seasoned soy sauce glaze offers a burst of umami flavor. You can also experiment with different fillings, such as grilled salmon or umeboshi (pickled plum), to add a surprise in the center!

Conclusion

Creating your own Tokyo Yaki Onigiri at home is a rewarding culinary project that connects you to Japanese food culture. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh off the grill or as a portable lunch, these grilled rice balls deliver both on texture and taste.