Onigiri, 'The Soul of Japan in a Ball of Rice'

We could get a hint of the atmosphere of Japanese culture from the performance of the Japanese students (Mizuki Hirano, Yukito Konno, Jyuri Haratake, Natsuki Ogido), which was about Onigiri. 2019 is a very important year for both Hungary and Japan, because we celebrate the 150th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Hungary and Japan. As students who live in Hungary, they wanted to do something to celebrate this event. As everyone surely likes food, they introduced Japan's food culture and let us know more about Japan. 

What is Onigiri? What is it made of? Why it is loved by all generations in Japan?
It looks like a white mountain covered with a black sheet. It is made from steamed rice formed into the typical triangle, usually wrapped with nori (dried seaweed) and is stuffed with a variety of fillings. Sometimes it gets confused with Sushi but their preparation is completely different. Onigiri is made of plain steamed rice, while sushi is made of steamed rice seasoned with vinegar, salt, and sugar. Onigiri is easy to make at home, it's healthy and commonly eaten everywhere, like sandwiches in Hungary.


The history of Onigiri

Onigiri is thought to be from about 2000 years ago. During the Heian Period (8-12 centuries), it was called Tonjiki and it had a round egg shape. In the middle of Edo period (17-19 centuries), seaweed became popular and people started to wrap Onigiri into seaweed so that the rice doesn’t stick to hands.

Onigiri action

This campaign started in America in 2014 by a non-profit organization, Table for Two in USA, which UN included into its World Food Day programs held on 16 October every year. This year's action will last until 20 November.

Take photo of Onigirior make the shape of it with your finger, face and etc. Then, post it on the official website https://onigiri-action.com/en/ with #Onigiri Action. With help of sponsorship companies, Table For Two will provide the kids with 5 school meals for each photo.

Köszönjük! Thank you! どうもありがとうございました！

World map of onigiri photos

(The Students received support from Mr György Neszmélyi, Head of International Relations of the Faculty, the Library and Ramen House BIWAKO.)