Onigiri Rice Balls with Imitation Crab Filling

Ingredients

• 1 cup uncooked short-grain sushi rice
• 1.2 cups water
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 100 grams imitation crab meat (surimi)
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• 2 small squares nori sheets
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds(optional)

Instructions

1. 1

   Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then combine with water in a rice cooker or pot; cook according to the rice cooker instructions or bring to a boil, cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 12 minutes.

2. 2

   While the rice cooks, finely chop the imitation crab meat, then mix it with mayonnaise, soy sauce, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl to create the filling.

3. 3

   When the rice is done, transfer it to a large bowl, gently fold in rice vinegar and the remaining salt, and let it cool enough to handle (about 2 minutes).

4. 4

   Wet your hands with a little water, take about 1/4 cup of rice, flatten it, place a teaspoon of the crab mixture in the center, and shape into a triangle or ball, sealing the filling inside.

5. 5

   Wrap each shaped rice ball with a nori square, pressing gently to adhere; sprinkle optional sesame seeds on top for extra flavor.