Onigiri or “rice balls” are the cornerstone of Japan’s on-the-go foods. In stock at all convenience stores, here are my top 5 onigiri choices!
Consisting of steamed or fried sticky rice made into a ball or triangle shape, onigiri is one of the best nutritional choices at Japan’s convenience stores.
They offer quick carbs and protein with minimal fats or oils, making them a fantastic breakfast or lunch option that keeps you energized for your daily activities.
1. Egg & Tomato Sauce
A bit of a rarity, the egg and tomato sauce onigiri is by far my favorite, offering a unique twist on the otherwise seafood-dominated nature of this combini delight.
The rice itself is flavored with a light tomato base, and the rich tomato sauce creates a “moist-maker” in between the egg omelet and rice, bringing you an incredible taste and texture with a real kick!
2. Salmon & Mayo
Moving onto the second place, this salmon and mayo combination makes for an excellent onigiri choice for similar reasons as my number one choice, and that is the moist texture.
Combined with the fresh taste of salmon, this onigiri resembles a full-on salmon rice bowl in a compact, easy-to-eat form that can provide great nutrition on the go!
3. Chicken & Vegetables
The chicken and vegetables onigiri from 7-Eleven is truly a one-of-a-kind, featuring a fried rice recipe that is reminiscent of a fried rice dish from your favorite Asian restaurant.
Just over 100 yen (less than 1 USD), this onigiri keeps the hunger at bay and has a delicious taste, albeit a result of a higher oil content (great taste comes at a cost!).
4. Salmon & Kelp
The salmon and kelp onigiri may not be as moist as the options listed above, but it does offer a higher vegetable content than the others.
Of all the onigiri choices on this list, the salmon and kelp have the most classic look, featuring a seaweed wrapping and curved edge triangle shape that is often associated with those seen in anime.
5. Beef Short Rib
Last but certainly not least is the beef short rib onigiri, featuring a similar design to the salmon and kelp version with its triangular shape and seaweed wrapping, except it has an interior of saucy beef inside.
Considered somewhat of a “premium” onigiri, the beef short rib rice ball is priced two to three times more than the standard onigiri, though it’s a great choice for beef lovers!
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