How To Microwave Onigiri: A Step-by-step Guide For A Delicious And Easy Meal

Onigiri, the exquisite Japanese rice balls, are a beloved snack and meal staple worldwide. While they’re traditionally crafted and grilled, microwaving offers a convenient and time-saving alternative. This comprehensive guide will delve into the art of microwaving onigiri, empowering you to prepare these delectable treats in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Selecting the Perfect Onigiri

The foundation of a successful microwaved onigiri lies in choosing the right rice balls. Look for onigiri that are freshly made and have a firm, slightly sticky texture. Avoid onigiri that are too dry or crumbly.

Unwrapping and Shaping

Before microwaving, gently unwrap the onigiri from its plastic wrap. If desired, you can reshape the onigiri into a more aesthetically pleasing form. Use your fingers to mold the rice into a triangle, round, or any shape you prefer.

Moistening the Surface

To prevent the onigiri from drying out during microwaving, it’s essential to moisten the surface. Use a damp paper towel or a brush dipped in water to lightly dampen the rice. This will help create a steamy environment inside the microwave, keeping the onigiri moist and fluffy.

Choosing the Right Microwave Setting

The microwave setting plays a crucial role in achieving perfectly microwaved onigiri. Opt for the “reheat” or “defrost” setting, which uses lower power and longer cooking times. Avoid using the “high” setting, as it can quickly heat the onigiri unevenly, resulting in dry or burnt rice.

Microwaving Duration

The microwaving duration depends on the size and quantity of onigiri. As a general rule, microwave a single onigiri for 30-45 seconds. For multiple onigiri, increase the time accordingly. It’s important to check the onigiri halfway through and microwave in short bursts until heated through.

Checking for Doneness

Once the microwaving time is complete, carefully remove the onigiri from the microwave. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick or skewer into the center of the rice. If it comes out clean, the onigiri is ready to enjoy.

Tips for Perfect Microwaved Onigiri

• Use a microwave-safe plate or container.
• Cover the onigiri with a damp paper towel or lid to trap moisture.
• If the onigiri becomes dry, reheat it in 10-second intervals and add a few drops of water.
• For a crispy exterior, wrap the onigiri in aluminum foil and microwave for an additional 30 seconds.

Serving and Enjoying

Microwaved onigiri can be enjoyed on their own or as part of a larger meal. Serve them with your favorite fillings, such as tuna mayonnaise, salmon flakes, or umeboshi (pickled plum). Pair them with a bowl of miso soup or a side of pickled vegetables for a complete and satisfying experience.

Questions You May Have

1. Can I microwave frozen onigiri?
Yes, you can microwave frozen onigiri. However, you’ll need to increase the microwaving time by 1-2 minutes, depending on the size of the onigiri.

2. How do I prevent the onigiri from sticking to the microwave plate?
Place a piece of parchment paper or a microwave-safe mat on the plate before microwaving the onigiri.

3. Can I microwave onigiri with fillings?
Yes, you can microwave onigiri with fillings. However, some fillings, such as raw fish or meat, may need to be cooked separately before microwaving.

4. What if my onigiri is too dry after microwaving?
Reheat the onigiri in short bursts and add a few drops of water to moisten it. You can also wrap the onigiri in a damp paper towel and microwave for a few seconds.

5. How do I store microwaved onigiri?
Store microwaved onigiri in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.