For a long time, Japanese food in Brazil was mainly associated with sushi, sashimi, and temaki. Now, a simpler and more everyday preparation from Japan is starting to gain ground in the country, especially on social media. Onigiri, the molded and filled rice ball, has been appearing more frequently in restaurants, izakayas, and contemporary homes, in an expansion that mixes Japanese tradition with combinations designed for the local palate.
In Japan, the recipe is far from new. Traditionally made with Japanese rice, in shapes ranging from triangular to rounded, it usually has varied fillings and a strip or layer of nori seaweed. It is a practical food, consumed on a daily basis and easily found in convenience stores.
