Onigiri

Preparation of Rice Wash the rice thoroughly under cold running water until the water runs clear.

Cooking the Rice Add the washed rice and water to a rice cooker and cook according to the manufacturer's instructions. If you don't have a rice cooker, you can cook the rice in a pot.

Preparing the Rice Seasoning In a small bowl, mix together the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until the sugar and salt dissolve.

Seasoning the Rice Transfer the cooked rice to a large bowl and pour the rice seasoning over it. Gently fold the seasoning into the rice using a wooden spatula or rice paddle. Be careful not to mash the rice.

Cooling the Rice Let the seasoned rice cool for about 10-15 minutes, or until it is cool enough to handle.

Shaping the Onigiri Wet your hands with water and divide the rice into equal portions, depending on the size of onigiri you want to make.

Adding the Filling Take one portion of rice and flatten it on your palm. Place a small amount of filling in the center of the rice. Carefully mold the rice around the filling, shaping it into a triangle, round, or cylindrical shape. Repeat with the remaining portions of rice and filling.

Wrapping with Nori Wrap each onigiri with a half sheet of nori, shiny side out. The nori will stick to the rice naturally. If desired, you can slightly wet the nori to help it stick better.

Serve and Enjoy Serve the onigiri immediately, or you can wrap them individually in plastic wrap to keep them fresh for later.