Rice ball

A rice ball, also known as onigiri (おにぎり) or omusubi (おむすび), is a Japanese food made from white rice formed into triangular or oval shapes and often wrapped in nori (seaweed). It is a popular and versatile food in Japan, commonly eaten as a snack, lunch, or part of a bento box.

Onigiri can be filled with a variety of ingredients, both savory and sometimes sweet, although savory fillings are more typical. Common fillings include umeboshi (pickled plum), okaka (bonito flakes simmered in soy sauce), salmon flakes, tuna mayonnaise, and seasoned cod roe (mentaiko or tarako). Other possible fillings encompass a wide range of meats, vegetables, and pickles.

The rice used for onigiri is typically Japanese short-grain rice, which becomes sticky when cooked, making it easy to mold into shapes. The rice is often lightly salted during preparation to enhance its flavor and aid in preservation. Nori is used to wrap the rice ball, providing a convenient way to hold it and adding a characteristic flavor and texture.

Onigiri is a common sight in Japanese convenience stores (konbini) and supermarkets, where they are usually individually wrapped for freshness. They are also a popular homemade food. The simple preparation and portable nature of onigiri have contributed to its enduring popularity in Japan and its growing popularity worldwide.

Although the terms "onigiri" and "omusubi" are often used interchangeably, some regional and historical nuances exist. Some suggest "omusubi" has a slightly more formal or elegant connotation, while "onigiri" is the more common and colloquial term. However, this distinction is not universally recognized, and both terms generally refer to the same food item.