Onigiri are a traditional Japanese snack made of rice formed into small balls or triangular patty shapes. Sometimes toasted, rolled in nori (dried seaweed), or stuffed with pickled or savory fillings, these small snacks are popular in Japan. They often are served as food for school trips, picnic lunches or holiday parties. In the United States, many anime fans are exposed to onigiri through anime series like "Fruits Basket," prompting many Americans to try their hand at making these surprisingly complex treats.
Instructions
1. Fill a large pot with the rice and place it in your sink under running water. The water will turn a milky color from the excess starch. Continue rinsing the rice under the water three times until the water begins to look less milky.
2. Drain away most of the excess water from the pot and gently rub the grains of rice together with your hands to loosen any excess starch or debris.
3. Rinse the rice again until the water is almost clear.
4. Drain the rice and let it sit for 30 minutes.
5. Return the rice to the pot and cover with the water. Let soak for 30 minutes.
6. Bring to a boil over medium heat, and then cover the pot with a lid. Turn up the heat to high for 60 seconds, then reduce back to medium and cook for 5 additional minutes, then reduce to low heat and cook for 10 minutes.
7. Remove the pot from the heat, remove the lid and replace it with a clean kitchen towel for 15 minutes.
8. Add any flavorings, such as salt or vinegar, if desired, before forming into onigiri patties.
Tags: cover with, excess starch, then reduce, until water