Japanese rice balls, or onigiri, are a delightful and versatile snack that you can easily prepare at home. Traditionally shaped into triangles or spheres, these savoury morsels are made from seasoned short-grain rice and can be filled with a variety of ingredients such as pickled plum (umeboshi), grilled salmon, or even a hint of wasabi.

To make simple onigiri, begin by cooking about two cups of sushi rice until fluffy and tender. Once cooled slightly, season the rice with a dash of salt and a splash of rice vinegar for added flavour.

Next, wet your hands to prevent sticking and take a small handful of rice, gently pressing it into a triangle shape. If you wish to include a filling, create a small indentation in the centre of the rice ball, add your chosen filling, and carefully mould the rice back around it.

For a classic touch, wrap a strip of nori (seaweed) around the base of the onigiri and serve it with a side of soy sauce or pickled vegetables. Perfect for picnics, lunchboxes, or as a quick snack, onigiri is a simple yet delightful reflection of Japanese culinary tradition.