Introduction – Onigiri Fillings
Onigiri fillings are the secret to turning a simple rice ball into a flavor-packed, satisfying meal. If you’ve ever scrolled through Pinterest looking for ideas for onigiri fillings, only to be overwhelmed by choices (or, let’s be real, to get distracted by a matcha latte recipe you now must try), then you’re in the right place.
Let’s be honest—between work, kids, and that never-ending laundry pile, finding the time to make homemade Japanese food can feel like a luxury.
But here’s the thing: onigiri (Japanese rice balls) are ridiculously easy to make, budget-friendly, and—best of all—completely customizable. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week, making a quick snack, or packing a bento lunch, having the right onigiri filling ideas can be a total game-changer.
Now, you could stick to the classics (hello, tuna mayo onigiri), but why not shake things up a bit? Below, we’ve got ten delicious filling ideas for onigiri, ranging from traditional to creative, so you’ll never run out of inspiration again. Plus, we’ll throw in some tips to make your onigiri taste even better. Ready? Let’s roll (literally)!
Classic Onigiri Fillings: Tuna Mayo (ツナマヨ)
Tuna Mayo Onigiri Recipe
Tuna Mayo Onigiri
An easy-to-make Japanese rice ball filled with creamy tuna mayo and wrapped in crispy nori. Perfect for lunch, snacks, or meal prep!
This one needs no introduction. Tuna mayo onigiri is the king of convenience store snacks in Japan. Creamy, salty, and umami-packed, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Why you’ll love Tuna Mayo Onigiri:
- Easy to make (literally just mix canned tuna with mayo and soy sauce).
- Kids love it!
- Tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.
Swap regular mayo for Kewpie mayo (a Japanese-style mayonnaise) for that extra oomph of umami.
Spicy Miso Chicken
Want something hearty? Try mixing shredded chicken with miso paste, soy sauce, and a dash of chili flakes.
Who will love this?
- Spicy food lovers.
- Those who need a protein-packed lunch.
- Anyone bored of plain onigiri!
Umeboshi (Japanese Pickled Plum)
Tangy, salty, and slightly sweet, umeboshi is a traditional onigiri filling that packs a punch.
Why it’s great:
- A natural preservative (perfect for bento boxes!).
- A great way to balance rich, oily meals.
- Helps with digestion.
Tip: If umeboshi is too strong for you, try mixing it with honey to soften the tartness.
Smoked Salmon & Cream Cheese
Who says onigiri can’t be fancy? This combo gives major sushi roll vibes—minus the effort.
Why this works:
- A perfect East-meets-West flavor fusion.
- High in healthy fats and protein.
- Tastes gourmet but takes five minutes to prep.
Teriyaki Tofu – Onigiri Fillings
Calling all plant-based eaters! Cubes of teriyaki-glazed tofu make for an unexpectedly satisfying onigiri filling.
Why you should try it:
- Great meat-free option.
- Sweet-savory balance that kids will love.
- Super filling and nutritious.
Kimchi & Cheese
Yes, you read that right. The spicy tang of kimchi meets the creamy goodness of melted cheese, and it works.
Who will love this?
- Spice lovers.
- Anyone obsessed with Korean-Japanese fusion flavors.
- Those who want a filling with probiotic benefits.
Sesame & Shiso (Japanese Basil)
A light, fresh option that’s perfect for summer.
Why it’s amazing:
- Naturally vegan.
- A refreshing, herby taste that pairs well with white rice.
- Loaded with antioxidants.
Shrimp Tempura
Crispy shrimp tucked into a rice ball? Sign us up!
Why you’ll love it:
- Adds crunch and texture.
- Feels indulgent but is easy to prep.
- Pairs amazingly with a drizzle of soy sauce.
Shrimp Tempura Recipe
Shrimp Tempura
Make shrimp tempura at home with this simple yet delicious recipe. Light, crispy batter meets tender shrimp for an irresistible dish that’s ready in just 15 minutes!
Curry Beef
Think of this as an onigiri twist on a beef curry bowl.
Why it works:
- Rich, spiced, and deeply satisfying.
- Great for batch cooking.
- Pairs well with a little pickled ginger for extra zing.
Egg Salad & Furikake
Think of this as the ultimate comfort food filling.
Why it’s a must-try:
- Super creamy and delicious.
- Packed with protein.
- Furikake (Japanese rice seasoning) adds an umami kick.
Frequently Asked Questions about Onigiri Fillings
Absolutely! Just wrap them in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Let the rice cool slightly before shaping it, and use dry fillings when possible.
Japanese short-grain rice is best—it’s sticky enough to hold its shape but still soft and fluffy.
You can, but brown rice is less sticky, so shaping the onigiri might be trickier.
