Mastering the Art of Onigiri: Nori Secrets Unraveled

Feb 25, 2024 | News On Japan

TOKYO - Rice and nori are a perfect match. Whether it's in onigiri or sushi rolls, the aroma of seaweed is irresistible.

Nori, which plays a key role in the appearance of onigiri, has both a front and a back. But what exactly is the difference? To explain, we turn to the president of major nori maker "Yamamoto Noriten," Mr. Yamamoto.

"When you mince nori and pour it into a frame called a 'norimushi,' which is made in the same way as Japanese paper, the side that sticks to the frame is rough. The top surface is smooth, creating the front and back."

When making nori, it is dried on a bamboo screen. The smooth side that does not touch the screen is the front, while the side that touches the screen and becomes rough is the back. The characteristics of the back surface...

"Because the surface area is large, when you apply soy sauce, it only adheres to a small area."

It is said that the back side easily absorbs flavors. As for the front side...

"I think the good thing about the front is its beauty, so when placing ingredients, if you place the rice on the back and roll it, the outside will become the front, making it look more appealing."

To make delicious onigiri, it is recommended to place the smooth side on the outside.

Flavored nori sometimes has sauce applied only to the absorbent back side.

Source: ANN

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