Hearty Rice Sandwich (Onigirazu)
Use Up Leftover Rice and Ingredients! Japanese Rice Sandwich Onigirazu Recipe
Create a simple yet satisfying meal using leftover rice, Spam, and tomatoes from your fridge! Onigirazu, also known as a ‘rice burger’ popular in Japan, is essentially a rice ball pressed flat into a sandwich. Simply spread rice thinly on nori seaweed, fill generously with your favorite ingredients, and fold! This recipe for Onigirazu is perfect for kids’ lunchboxes or a quick breakfast.
Basic Ingredients- 2 bowls warm cooked rice
- 2 sheets of nori (seaweed for sushi rolls)
- Pinch of salt
- Pinch of sesame oil
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Gently season the warm rice with salt and mix in sesame oil. Thinly spread the rice onto a sheet of nori, shaping it into a square. Leave the edges of the nori with less rice to make folding easier later.
Step 2
Arrange the thinly sliced cucumber over the rice. If you prefer, you can also julienne the cucumber for a different texture. Feel free to add other vegetables here too.
Step 3
Pan-fry the Spam slices until golden brown and drain off excess oil. Place the cooked Spam on top of the cucumber. Frying the Spam enhances its savory flavor.
Step 4
Layer the thinly sliced tomato over the Spam. The tomato’s freshness adds a bright note to the sandwich.
Step 5
Fry the eggs as sunny-side up. Since the Spam is salty, you likely won’t need to season the fried egg with salt. You can slightly break the yolk to mix with the rice for extra flavor.
Step 6
Generously place the fresh lettuce leaves over the fried egg. This adds a delightful crunch.
Step 7
Finally, spread a thin layer of rice over the lettuce to act as the top. Be careful not to make this layer too thick, as it might cause the sandwich to burst.
Step 8
Carefully fold the edges of the nori over the filling to enclose everything, like wrapping a present. Ensure the filling is securely contained.
Step 9
Wrap the entire rice sandwich tightly with plastic wrap 2-3 times. This will help it hold its shape and keep everything neat.
Step 10
Let it rest for about 3 minutes after wrapping. Then, carefully slice the sandwich in half with a knife to reveal the appealing layers inside. If the nori is difficult to cut, lightly dampen the knife with water.
Step 11
Voilà! Your delicious Rice Sandwich (Onigirazu) is ready. It’s packed with generous amounts of filling.
Step 12
Although made in a hurry, this sandwich might not be the prettiest, but the taste is truly top-notch! The savory rice, salty Spam, and fresh vegetables create a wonderful flavor combination.
Step 13
Here’s a simple spread featuring the rice sandwich and fresh fruit. It’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate, making it a great choice for a home brunch or picnic.
Step 14
I’m getting ready to enjoy a movie with my favorite chips alongside this hearty rice sandwich. It promises to be a delightful time!
