Onigirazu (Japanese Sushi Sandwich)

Onigirazu (Japanese Sushi Sandwich) is a delightful fusion of traditional sushi and a convenient sandwich format. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for any meal, whether you’re prepping for a busy lunch or a cozy dinner. With its combination of flavors and textures, it stands out as a versatile choice that appeals to everyone. The wonderful layers of tuna mayonnaise, fluffy rice, and creamy avocado create a satisfying experience that’s hard to resist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Meal Prep: Onigirazu can be prepared in under 50 minutes, making it an ideal option for busy days.
• Flavor Packed: Each bite is bursting with fresh flavors from the filling ingredients, ensuring you never get bored.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the fillings based on your preferences or what you have at home.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutritious elements like avocado and sushi rice, this dish offers a balanced meal.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s lunch, dinner, or a picnic, Onigirazu fits seamlessly into any setting.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Onigirazu experience seamless, having the right tools on hand will make all the difference.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Non-stick frying pan
• Measuring cups
• Mixing bowls
• Chopping board
• Microwave

Why These Tools Matter

• Non-stick frying pan: This helps cook the omelette evenly without sticking, ensuring perfect texture.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements of rice and liquids are crucial for achieving the right consistency in your sushi rice.

Ingredients

This is my take on Onigirazu aka Japanese Sushi Sandwich. Filled with tuna mayonnaise, omelette, avocado, and the fluffiest sushi rice, it’s the perfect meal to prep ahead and eat for lunch or dinner.

For the Sushi Rice

• 75g sushi rice
• 3 tbsp rice grape juice vinegar (plus extra for brushing)
• 1 tbsp sugar
• Salt (Big pinch!)
• 1 tbsp hot water

For the Filling

• 75g tinned tuna
• 1 tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 egg (whisked)
• 1 ripe avocado
• Salt
• Pepper

For Assembly

• 2 nori sheets
• Sriracha mayo

How to Make Onigirazu (Japanese Sushi Sandwich)

Step 1: Cook the Sushi Rice

1. Pour 75g of sushi rice into a mug and note its volume.
2. Transfer the rice to a saucepan and cover it with water. Stir well and drain to remove excess water.
3. Measure an equal volume of water using the mug and pour it into the saucepan.
4. Cover the saucepan with a lid and place it on medium heat.
5. Once boiling, reduce heat to low while keeping the lid on and cook for 10 minutes.
6. Turn off heat after 10 minutes but let it sit covered for another 5 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare Filling Mixture

1. In a bowl, combine tinned tuna, mayonnaise, salt, and pepper. Mix well and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Omelette

1. Crack an egg into a small bowl and whisk until combined.
2. Heat a teaspoon of oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat.
3. Pour in the beaten egg to form an omelette; season with salt and pepper as desired.
4. Flip once cooked through; remove from heat once done.

Step 4: Slice Avocado

1. Peel and slice your ripe avocado into thin pieces.
2. Set aside for assembly later.

Step 5: Season Sushi Rice

1. In a small bowl, mix rice grape juice vinegar, sugar, salt, and hot water until dissolved.
2. Pour this mixture over cooked sushi rice, fluff gently with a fork.
3. Spread rice out onto a plate and refrigerate until cool.

Step 6: Assemble Onigirazu

1. Place one nori sheet on a chopping board at an angle facing you.
2. Spoon half of the cooled sushi rice onto it in a square shape.
3. Layer fillings: sliced avocado, omelette pieces, tuna mayo mixture, more avocado slices, followed by more sushi rice on top.

Step 7: Wrap It Up

1. Cut another nori sheet into a square slightly larger than your filling square.
2. Brush edges with rice grape juice vinegar to help seal it together.
3. Fold up everything tightly like wrapping a present; use cling film if needed to hold shape.

Step 8: Serve

Prepare some sriracha mayonnaise or your preferred dipping sauce before serving! Enjoy your delicious homemade Onigirazu!

How to Serve Onigirazu (Japanese Sushi Sandwich)

Onigirazu is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. This Japanese sushi sandwich not only makes for a delightful meal but also offers numerous serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Crispy Cucumbers – Serve with thinly sliced cucumbers for a refreshing crunch.
• Shredded Carrots – Add some color and sweetness with fresh shredded carrots alongside your Onigirazu.

With Dipping Sauces

• Soy Sauce – A classic choice, soy sauce adds umami and complements the flavors beautifully.
• Sriracha Mayo – For those who enjoy a spicy kick, serve your Onigirazu with a side of sriracha mayonnaise.

As a Picnic Meal

• Portable Packaging – Wrap each Onigirazu tightly to take them on picnics or outdoor adventures, making them easy to transport.
• Pre-cut Portions – Cut the sandwiches into halves or quarters for easy sharing during gatherings.

How to Perfect Onigirazu (Japanese Sushi Sandwich)

Perfecting your Onigirazu can elevate this dish from good to great. Follow these tips for the best results:

• Bold Rice Cooking – Ensure your sushi rice is fluffy and sticky by following the correct water-to-rice ratio.
• Fresh Ingredients – Use ripe avocados and high-quality tuna for optimal flavor and texture.
• Cool Before Assembly – Let your rice cool before wrapping to prevent sogginess in the nori.
• Tight Wrapping – Wrap the Onigirazu tightly to keep all the ingredients secure while eating.
• Experiment with Fillings – Feel free to customize fillings based on seasonal ingredients or personal preferences.
• Serve Immediately – Enjoy your Onigirazu soon after preparation for the best taste and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Onigirazu (Japanese Sushi Sandwich)

Pairing side dishes with Onigirazu can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Edamame – Lightly salted edamame provides a nutritious and protein-rich snack.
2. Miso Soup – A warm bowl of miso soup complements the cold sushi sandwich perfectly.
3. Pickled Ginger – Serve pickled ginger as a palate cleanser between bites of Onigirazu.
4. Seaweed Salad – A tangy seaweed salad adds an extra layer of flavor and nutrition.
5. Japanese Potato Salad – Creamy potato salad brings comfort food vibes alongside your meal.
6. Fruit Skewers – Fresh fruit skewers offer a sweet contrast that balances the savory flavors of the sandwich.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Onigirazu, avoiding common mistakes can enhance your dish significantly. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Using the wrong rice: Always opt for sushi rice instead of regular rice to achieve the perfect sticky texture.
• Not seasoning the rice properly: Be sure to mix in the rice grape juice vinegar, sugar, and salt after cooking for that authentic flavor.
• Filling too much: Avoid overstuffing your Onigirazu; it can make folding difficult and cause fillings to spill out.
• Skipping the cooling step: Allow your sushi rice to cool before assembly. This step is crucial for proper texture and ease of handling.
• Neglecting to use fresh ingredients: Always choose ripe avocados and fresh tuna for the best taste and health benefits.

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Containers: Use airtight containers or wrap tightly in cling film to prevent drying out.

Freezing Onigirazu (Japanese Sushi Sandwich)

• Duration: Can be frozen for up to 1 month.
• Containers: Wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag or container.

Reheating Onigirazu (Japanese Sushi Sandwich)

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place the Onigirazu in the skillet, cover, and heat for about 5 minutes on each side.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Onigirazu (Japanese Sushi Sandwich)?

Onigirazu is a Japanese sushi sandwich, combining traditional sushi elements with a convenient sandwich format, perfect for meals on-the-go.

Can I customize my Onigirazu filling?

Absolutely! You can add different proteins or veggies based on your preferences, such as chicken, turkey, or even grilled vegetables.

How do I ensure my nori stays crispy?

To keep nori crispy, assemble your Onigirazu just before eating. If storing, keep fillings separate from nori until ready to serve.

Is it possible to make Onigirazu vegan?

Yes! Simply replace tuna with mashed chickpeas or tofu mixed with vegan mayonnaise and fill with an array of vegetables.

Conclusion

This Onigirazu (Japanese Sushi Sandwich) recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. Customize it with your favorite ingredients for lunch or dinner. Whether you enjoy it cold or warm, it’s an ideal meal prep choice that satisfies all cravings!