Mini Rice Balls

I think you might be referring to "onigiri"!

Onigiri (also known as omusubi) are triangular-shaped balls of rice, typically filled with tasty ingredients, and often served at Japanese restaurants in the USA. They are a popular snack or light meal in Japan and have gained popularity globally.

Here are some fun facts about onigiri:

1. Name: "Onigiri" () literally means "triangular rice ball" in Japanese. "Omusubi" () is another common term, especially in Western Japan.

2. Fillings: Common fillings include:

* Salmon ( salmon)

* Tuna ( tuna)

* Pickled plum (umeboshi)

* Salted salmon roe (ikura)

* Boiled egg (tamago)

* Cucumber (kyuri)

* Carrot (ninjin)

* Spicy tuna (wasabi tuna)

3. Rice: Japanese short-grain rice is used to make onigiri. The rice is prepared with salt and sometimes sake or mirin (a sweet Japanese cooking wine) to give it a unique flavor.

4. Shape: Onigiri are typically triangular in shape, with the filling placed in the center and the rice wrapped around it. The triangle shape makes them easy to hold and eat.

5. Wrapping: Some onigiri are wrapped in nori seaweed sheets, which adds a crunchy texture and a salty flavor.

6. Variations: Some modern onigiri variations feature unique fillings like:

* Spicy tuna with avocado

* Chicken or beef teriyaki

* Grilled vegetables

* Fried or poached eggs

7. Popularity: Onigiri are a staple snack in Japan, and their popularity has spread to other countries, including the USA, where they can be found in Japanese restaurants and some convenience stores.

Now that you know more about onigiri, I hope you'll enjoy trying them at a Japanese restaurant or making them yourself at home!