Rice Ball

Rice Balls: A Taste of Japan in the Heart of America

Rice balls, known as onigiri in Japanese, are a staple of Japanese cuisine. These bite-sized treats consist of a ball of rice filled with various savory or sweet ingredients, wrapped in a sheet of nori (seaweed).

In recent years, rice balls have gained popularity in the United States, with restaurants specializing in these delectable snacks popping up in major cities across the country. Here are a few notable establishments:

1. Onigiri House (New York City)

Located in the bustling East Village, Onigiri House offers a wide selection of rice balls, from classic fillings like tuna mayo and salmon to more adventurous options like spicy pork and avocado. Their rice is perfectly cooked, with a slightly chewy texture that complements the flavorful fillings.

2. Marufuku Ramen (Los Angeles)

While Marufuku Ramen is primarily known for its delicious ramen, they also serve a variety of rice balls as a side dish. Their signature rice ball is filled with a savory blend of ground pork, ginger, and scallions, wrapped in a crispy sheet of nori.

3. Rice Ball Kitchen (San Francisco)

Rice Ball Kitchen is a cozy spot in the Mission District that specializes in customizable rice balls. Customers can choose from a variety of fillings, including tofu, tempura shrimp, and kimchi, and add toppings like pickled ginger and sesame seeds.

4. Musubi Hiro (Chicago)

Musubi Hiro is a popular food truck that serves authentic Hawaiian-style rice balls, known as musubi. Their signature spam musubi is a must-try, featuring a slice of grilled spam on top of a bed of sticky rice, wrapped in nori.

5. Rice & Roll (Seattle)

Rice & Roll is a casual eatery that offers a variety of rice-based dishes, including rice balls. Their rice balls are filled with a generous amount of fillings, such as chicken teriyaki, bulgogi, and vegetarian options.

Conclusion

Rice balls are a delicious and convenient snack that has found a home in the United States. With restaurants specializing in these Japanese treats popping up in major cities across the country, it's easy to enjoy the authentic flavors of onigiri without having to travel to Japan.