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onigiri

おにぎり
English → EnglishcasualInstant · from the shared dictionary
onigiri

An onigiri is a traditional Japanese food made from white rice formed into a triangular, ball, or cylindrical shape and often wrapped in nori (dried seaweed). It is the ultimate comfort food, representing a portable, handheld meal that is both satisfying and simple to prepare. While often called a "rice ball" in English, it is distinct from sushi because the rice is usually plain rather than vinegared. It is a staple of convenience stores and home-packed lunches, frequently containing a savory filling like salted salmon, pickled plum (umeboshi), or tuna mayo tucked inside.

In conversation

At a convenience store

I'm starving. Should I grab a tuna mayo onigiri?

I'm starving. Should I grab a tuna mayo onigiri?

Definitely, get two! They're the perfect quick snack.

Definitely, get two! They're the perfect quick snack.

'Onigiri' is widely used as a loanword in English when discussing Japanese food culture.

Packing a lunch

I packed you an onigiri for your hike.

I packed you an onigiri for your hike.

Thanks! I hope it's the salmon one.

Thanks! I hope it's the salmon one.

It is common to specify the filling when discussing which onigiri to eat.

Examples

  1. I bought an onigiri at the shop.

    おにぎり

    I bought an onigiri at the shop.

  2. Onigiri is a convenient snack to carry on a long trip.

    おにぎり

    Onigiri is a convenient snack to carry on a long trip.

  3. Wrapping the onigiri in crisp nori right before eating prevents the seaweed from getting soggy.

    おにぎり

    Wrapping the onigiri in crisp nori right before eating prevents the seaweed from getting soggy.

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