Japan
This is a staple in Japanese lunch boxes. They may be made in round balls, triangles, or even squares and served as an appetizer.
Ingredients
- 4 cups steamed Japanese rice (sushi rice)
- 1 to 2 sheets dried nori seaweed (optional)
- salt to taste
- 1 ounce black sesame seeds (optional)
- 1 fillet salmon, grilled (optional)
Step 1
Cut each nori sheet (if using) into 8 or 9 strips, and put about ½ cup steamed rice in a rice bowl.
Step 2
Wet your hands with water so that the rice won't stick, and rub some salt on your wet hands.
Step 3
Place the steamed rice in your hand, and form into a ball or triangle, making sure it is dense and thick.
Step 4
Put filling on the rice, and push it into the rice lightly.
Step 5
Hold the rice between your palms.
Step 6
Form the rice into a ball, triangle, or cylinder by pressing lightly with both palms and securing the filling in the middle. Roll the rice ball in your hands a few times, pressing lightly.
Step 7
Wrap the rice ball with a strip or two of nori (if using), or sprinkle some sesame seeds on top (if using).