I love cooking, trying out new recipes, and experimenting with different flavors. One of my favorite dishes to make is onigiri, a traditional Japanese rice ball filled with various ingredients and flavors. But what happens when you have leftover onigiri and no microwave to heat it up? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! In this article, I will share some easy and simple tips and tricks to heat up your onigiri without a microwave.
Using a Pan
Step 1: Prep your onigiri
Before you start heating up your onigiri, make sure they are at room temperature. If they are refrigerated, allow them to sit out for a few minutes to take the chill off. This will ensure that your onigiri heat up evenly.
Step 2: Heat a pan on low heat
Place a non-stick pan on the stove and heat it on low heat. It’s important to use low heat to prevent burning or overcooking your onigiri.
Step 3: Add a little oil
Once the pan is heated, add a small amount of oil to prevent sticking. You can use any cooking oil of your choice, such as vegetable oil or sesame oil.
Step 4: Place your onigiri in the pan
Gently place your onigiri in the pan, leaving some space between each one. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan as this will prevent even heating.
Step 5: Flip occasionally
Allow your onigiri to heat up on one side for a few minutes until it becomes golden brown. Flip them over and repeat the process for the other side. Keep flipping occasionally to ensure even heating.
Step 6: Check for doneness
To check if your onigiri is heated through, insert a toothpick or skewer into the center. If it comes out warm, then your onigiri is ready to be enjoyed.
Steaming Method
Step 1: Prepare a steamer
If you don’t have a steamer, you can create a makeshift one by placing a wire rack or a heatproof bowl in a pot with a tight-fitting lid. Fill the pot with water, making sure the water level is below the rack or bowl.
Step 2: Bring the water to a simmer
Place the pot on the stove and bring the water to a simmer. The steam from the simmering water will heat up your onigiri.
Step 3: Place your onigiri in the steamer
Arrange your room temperature onigiri on the wire rack or heatproof bowl, ensuring they have some space between each other.
Step 4: Cover and steam
Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, trapping the steam inside. Allow your onigiri to steam for about 5-10 minutes, depending on the size and thickness of your rice balls.
Step 5: Check for doneness
To check if your onigiri is heated through, insert a toothpick or skewer into the center. If it comes out warm, then your onigiri is ready to be enjoyed.
Grill on a Stove
Step 1: Preheat a grill pan
Place a grill pan on the stove and preheat it on medium heat. You can also use a cast-iron skillet if you don’t have a grill pan.
Step 2: Brush with oil
Brush a small amount of oil on the grill pan to prevent sticking and ensure a nicely grilled texture.
Step 3: Place your onigiri on the grill pan
Gently place your room temperature onigiri on the hot grill pan, leaving some space between each one. Make sure to handle them with care to avoid any breakage.
Step 4: Grill on both sides
Allow your onigiri to grill for a few minutes on one side until it develops grill marks. Flip them over using a spatula or tongs and repeat the process for the other side.
Step 5: Check for doneness
To check if your onigiri is heated through, insert a toothpick or skewer into the center. If it comes out warm, then your onigiri is ready to be enjoyed.
By following these simple tips and tricks, you can easily heat up your onigiri without a microwave. Whether you choose to use a pan, steam, or grill, make sure to keep an eye on your onigiri to prevent burning or overcooking. So the next time you have leftover onigiri, don’t fret about not having a microwave—give these methods a try and enjoy a warm and delicious meal. Happy cooking!