Soft, savory, and beautifully simple — onigiri are Japan’s beloved rice balls, often filled with something delicious and wrapped in a touch of seaweed.
Crab onigiri brings a gentle seafood flavor with a creamy, slightly sweet twist.
It’s the kind of snack or light meal that feels both special and incredibly easy.
Here’s how to make a comforting batch of crab onigiri at home 🦀🍙
🍚 What is a crab Onigiri?
Onigiri (or omusubi) are hand-formed rice balls made with warm Japanese rice.
They can be filled with anything from pickled plum to grilled salmon — or, in this case, creamy crab — and are often wrapped in a strip of nori (seaweed).
Perfect for lunchboxes, light breakfasts, or a quiet snack with tea.
🦀 Ingredients (for 4–5 onigiri)
- 2 cups cooked Japanese short-grain rice (warm, not hot)
- 100 g crab meat (fresh, canned, or imitation)
- 1 tbsp Japanese mayo (Kewpie, if possible)
- ½ tsp soy sauce
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: rice vinegar or furikake seasoning
- Nori sheets, cut into strips
- Bowl of water + pinch of salt (for shaping)
🧄 Optional add-ins for extra flavor
- A tiny squeeze of lemon juice
- Chopped scallions
- A touch of wasabi or sriracha
- Dash of white pepper
These give the crab filling a little lift, especially if using imitation crab.
✋ How to shape the onigiri
- Make the filling
Mix crab meat with mayo, soy sauce, and optional add-ins. - Wet your hands
Dip your hands in water and rub a bit of salt on your palms (this helps preserve and season the rice). - Form the rice ball
Take a scoop of warm rice (about ½ cup), flatten it slightly in your hand. - Add the filling
Place 1–2 tsp of the crab mix in the center.
Add a bit more rice on top and gently shape into a triangle or oval. - Wrap with nori
Place a strip of nori across the bottom or wrap it fully, depending on your preference. - Let it rest a few minutes
This helps the shape hold and lets the flavors settle.
🌿 Serving ideas
- Enjoy warm or room temp — no need to refrigerate right away.
- Pair with miso soup or pickled veggies.
- Wrap in parchment or pack in a bento for a soft, calming lunch.
Onigiri reminds us that food doesn’t have to be loud to be satisfying.
Just a handful of rice, something soft and flavorful in the center, and the care of your hands.
That’s all it takes.
