The 10 Best Types of Rice for Yaki Onigiri

I’ve tasted countless varieties of rice in my quest for the perfect yaki onigiri, and let me tell you, not all rice is created equal.

If rice were a symphony, these ten types would be the virtuosos, each bringing their own unique flavor and texture to the table.

From the creamy short-grain white rice to the nutty wild rice, this article will guide you through the top picks for creating the most delicious yaki onigiri you’ve ever tasted.

So grab your chopsticks and let’s dive in!

Short-Grain White Rice

If you want to make the best yaki onigiri, you should use short-grain white rice.

Short-grain white rice is the ideal rice for yaki onigiri because it has a sticky texture that holds the rice balls together perfectly.

When cooked, it becomes soft and chewy, creating a delightful contrast to the crispy outer layer of the onigiri.

The short grains of this rice also absorb flavors more effectively, allowing the seasoning to penetrate every bite.

Not only does it enhance the taste, but the texture of short-grain white rice also adds to the overall experience of eating yaki onigiri.

Its ability to hold its shape when grilled makes it the perfect choice for this delicious Japanese snack.

Brown Rice

Brown rice is a healthier option for yaki onigiri due to its higher fiber content. The extra fiber in brown rice helps to keep me feeling full and satisfied for longer periods of time. Plus, it’s packed with essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Brown rice also has a lower glycemic index compared to white rice, which means it won’t cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels. This makes it a great choice for those who are watching their blood sugar levels or trying to manage their weight.

I love using brown rice in my yaki onigiri because it adds a nutty flavor and a great texture. Overall, brown rice is a delicious and nutritious option for yaki onigiri.

Jasmine Rice

Jasmine rice is a fragrant and versatile option for cooking various dishes. I love using it in my kitchen because of its distinct aroma and fluffy texture. Whether I’m making a simple stir-fry or a complex curry, jasmine rice always complements the flavors perfectly.

It absorbs the spices and sauces beautifully, resulting in a delicious and well-balanced dish. Not only is jasmine rice delicious, but it is also easy to cook. With just the right amount of water and a few simple steps, I can have a fluffy and fragrant bowl of rice in no time.

It’s no wonder that jasmine rice is a staple in many Asian cuisines and a favorite among home cooks and chefs alike.

Basmati Rice

When cooking basmati rice, you’ll notice its long grains and delicate aroma, which adds a unique touch to your meals.

I love using basmati rice because it has a subtle nutty flavor that pairs well with a variety of cuisines. The grains are slender and fluffy, making it the perfect choice for dishes like biryani or pilaf.

I find that basmati rice cooks up light and airy, with each grain separate and distinct. It also absorbs flavors beautifully, allowing the spices and seasonings to infuse into every bite.

Whether I’m making a simple stir-fry or a flavorful curry, basmati rice always elevates the dish and brings a touch of elegance to the table.

Sushi Rice

To make perfect sushi rice, you’ll need to rinse it thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch. This step is crucial in achieving the desired texture and stickiness of the rice.

I usually start by placing the rice in a fine mesh colander and rinsing it under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove any impurities and starch that can make the rice clumpy.

After rinsing, I transfer the rice to a pot and add the appropriate amount of water. I let it soak for about 30 minutes to allow the grains to absorb water evenly.

Then, I cook the rice according to the package instructions. By rinsing the sushi rice properly, I can ensure that each grain is separate and fluffy, perfect for making delicious sushi rolls.

Arborio Rice

If you want to make creamy risotto, try using Arborio rice. Arborio rice is known for its high starch content and ability to absorb flavor. I love cooking with Arborio rice because it creates a velvety texture and adds a rich taste to any dish.

When I make risotto, I start by sautéing onions and garlic in butter until they’re fragrant. Then, I add the Arborio rice and stir it around until it’s coated in the buttery goodness.

Next, I slowly add warm broth, stirring constantly. This allows the rice to absorb the liquid and release its starch, creating that creamy consistency.

To finish off my risotto, I like to sprinkle on some Parmesan cheese and drizzle on some olive oil. The result is a delicious and comforting dish that will impress anyone who tries it.

Black Rice

After discussing Arborio rice, let’s move on to another type of rice that is perfect for yaki onigiri: black rice.

Black rice, also known as forbidden rice, has a rich, nutty flavor and a unique dark color that adds visual appeal to your onigiri.

Not only is it delicious, but black rice is also packed with nutrients. It is a great source of antioxidants, fiber, and iron.

The texture of black rice is slightly chewy, making it a great choice for onigiri. When cooked, it has a sticky consistency, which helps the rice hold its shape when grilling.

Red Rice

Red rice, also known as wehani rice, has a nutty flavor and a vibrant color that adds a delightful twist to your meals. I love using red rice in my cooking because it not only tastes great but also looks beautiful on the plate.

The nutty flavor of red rice pairs well with a variety of dishes, from stir-fries to salads. Its rich, reddish-brown hue adds a pop of color to any meal, making it visually appealing.

Red rice is also a healthier option compared to white rice, as it contains more fiber and nutrients. Whether I’m making a simple side dish or a hearty main course, red rice always brings a unique and delicious element to my meals.

Calrose Rice

Calrose rice, also known as sushi rice, is a versatile grain that is commonly used in Japanese cuisine. It is my personal favorite type of rice to work with when making yaki onigiri.

The grains are short and sticky, which makes them perfect for shaping into onigiri balls and grilling them to perfection. The texture of Calrose rice is soft and slightly chewy, making each bite incredibly satisfying. It also absorbs flavors really well, so when I season it with soy sauce and other condiments, the taste is absolutely delicious.

Whether I’m making plain onigiri or stuffing them with fillings like grilled salmon or pickled plum, Calrose rice always delivers a fantastic result. Plus, it’s readily available in most grocery stores, making it convenient to cook with.

Calrose rice truly elevates the yaki onigiri experience.

Wild Rice

Wild rice, also known as the ‘caviar of grains,’ has a distinct nutty flavor and a chewy texture that adds a unique element to any dish. I absolutely love cooking with wild rice because it brings a depth of flavor that other types of rice just can’t match. The nutty taste pairs well with a variety of ingredients, making it incredibly versatile.

Whether I’m making a hearty pilaf or a flavorful salad, wild rice always takes the dish to the next level. Its chewy texture adds a satisfying bite, and I find it incredibly satisfying to eat. Plus, wild rice is packed with nutrients, making it a healthy choice.

Overall, wild rice is a culinary gem that I can’t get enough of.