The Lovely Adventure of a Rice Ball

Rice ball is a popular Asian food made from white or brown rice formed into a shape (usually a sphere or a triangle) and often filled with tasty ingredients.

Common ingredients include pickled plums, cooked salmon, seaweed, and a variety of other fillings.

Rice balls, or onigiri, originally came from Japan.

Yes, brown rice can be used to make rice balls. It can add a bit more texture and is also a healthier option.

Rice balls can be vegan, depending on the fillings you use. Rice and seaweed are vegan, so just ensure your fillings are also.

If refrigerated properly, rice balls will last up to a day. If you use preserved fillings, they might last longer.

Rice balls are typically eaten as is, but can also be enjoyed with a bit of soy sauce or pickles on the side.

The nutritional value will depend on the ingredients used. Generally, rice balls are a good source of carbohydrates, and if filled with fish or vegetables, can also provide protein and vitamins.

To make a rice ball, you need steamed rice, a filling of your choice, a piece of seaweed and a little bit of salt. Combine these ingredients, form into a shape and enjoy.

Rice balls, also known as onigiri in Japan, have a history dating back at least a thousand years. They were traditionally used as quick and portable meals for travelers or workers in the fields.

Yes, rice balls can be refrigerated. Just wrap them in plastic and they will keep for a day.

Yes, traditional rice balls that are made from rice, seaweed, and fillings like fish or pickled plum are gluten-free.

There are plenty of varieties, depending on the fillings and seasonings. Some common types are umeboshi (pickled plum), salmon, katsuobushi (dried tuna flakes) and miso.

To reheat a rice ball, you can use a microwave for about a minute. Be careful as the fillings can get hot quickly.

Yes, you can freeze the rice balls. Just make sure to thaw them completely before reheating.

You can buy it at Weee! Asian Market, www.sayweee.com.