How To Microwave Onigiri: Transform Leftover Rice Into A Delicious Meal

Onigiri, the beloved Japanese rice balls, are a culinary delight that can be enjoyed at any time of day. While traditionally made with a stovetop, microwaving onigiri offers a quick and convenient alternative to satisfy your cravings. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the art of microwaving onigiri, providing you with step-by-step instructions and tips to master this culinary technique.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 cup cooked Japanese rice
• 1/4 cup water
• Salt (to taste)
• Fillings of your choice (e.g., tuna salad, umeboshi, salmon flakes)

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

1. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine cooked rice and water.
2. Microwave on high for 1 minute.
3. Stir the rice to combine.

Step 2: Season the Rice

1. Add salt to taste and stir well.
2. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Step 3: Form the Onigiri

1. Wet your hands to prevent the rice from sticking.
2. Divide the rice into 6-8 equal portions.
3. Shape each portion into a triangle or ball.

Step 4: Add Fillings (Optional)

1. If desired, make a small indentation in the center of each onigiri.
2. Fill the indentation with your preferred filling.

Step 5: Wrap the Onigiri

1. Cut sheets of plastic wrap into squares.
2. Place an onigiri in the center of each square.
3. Wrap the plastic wrap tightly around the onigiri.

Step 6: Microwave the Onigiri

1. Place the wrapped onigiri on a microwave-safe plate.
2. Microwave on high for 30 seconds per side.
3. Flip the onigiri halfway through the cooking time.

Step 7: Enjoy!

1. Remove the onigiri from the microwave.
2. Unwrap the plastic wrap and enjoy the warm, fluffy goodness.

Tips for Perfect Microwave Onigiri:

• Use fresh, cold cooked rice for best results.
• If the rice is too dry, add a little more water. If it’s too wet, add a little more salt.
• Experiment with different fillings to create unique flavor combinations.
• Microwave the onigiri just until heated through to avoid overcooking.
• Let the onigiri cool slightly before unwrapping to prevent the rice from sticking to the plastic wrap.

The Joy of Onigiri:

Onigiri are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. They can be enjoyed as a quick snack, a packed lunch, or a side dish to a larger meal. The possibilities are endless when it comes to fillings, allowing you to customize your onigiri to your taste preferences.

Microwave Onigiri Variations:

• Spam Musubi: Layer Spam slices on top of the rice before wrapping.
• Tuna Mayo Onigiri: Mix tuna salad with mayonnaise and fill the onigiri.
• Umeboshi Onigiri: Fill the onigiri with umeboshi (pickled plum) paste.
• Salmon Onigiri: Top the onigiri with grilled salmon flakes.
• Vegetable Onigiri: Add chopped vegetables to the rice before forming the onigiri.

Beyond the Microwave:

While microwaving is a convenient method for making onigiri, you can also explore other cooking methods to achieve different textures and flavors.

• Stovetop: Cook the rice on the stovetop and form the onigiri while it’s still warm.
• Rice Cooker: Use the “onigiri” setting on your rice cooker to cook and shape the onigiri simultaneously.
• Grill: Grill the onigiri until slightly charred for a smoky flavor.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

Q: Can I use leftover rice for onigiri?
A: Yes, you can use leftover rice, but it’s important to make sure it’s fresh and not too dry.

Q: How long can I store microwave onigiri?
A: Microwave onigiri can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I freeze microwave onigiri?
A: Yes, you can freeze microwave onigiri for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Q: How do I reheat microwave onigiri?
A: You can reheat microwave onigiri in the microwave for 15-20 seconds per side.

Q: What are some other fillings I can use for onigiri?
A: Some other popular fillings include:

• Chicken teriyaki
• Takana (pickled mustard greens)
• Kombu (kelp)
• Natto (fermented soybeans)