Tarako Onigiri is a traditional Japanese rice ball filled with salty and slightly briny tarako (salted cod roe). This simple yet flavorful onigiri is a staple in bento boxes and Japanese convenience stores, offering a perfect balance of umami and saltiness. Easy to make and perfect for any meal, try this authentic Japanese comfort food today!
Tarako Onigiri
Difficulty: ★☆☆☆☆1-2
servings10
minutes15
minutesIngredients
2 cups (400g) warm cooked Japanese short-grain rice
1 small tarako (salted cod roe), split open and scraped out (Adjust amount based on preference.)
A pinch of salt (For seasoning the rice and hands.)
2–3 sheets of nori (seaweed), cut into strips (optional)
Directions
- Prepare the Tarako
If using raw tarako, remove the membrane and scrape out the roe with a spoon.
If preferred, lightly grill or pan-fry the tarako until slightly browned for a richer flavor. - Shape the Onigiri
Hand-rolling method:
Wet your hands with water to prevent rice from sticking.
Rub a pinch of salt on your hands for seasoning.
Take a portion of rice and create an indentation in the center.
Add a small amount of tarako inside, then gently cover it with more rice.
Press and shape into a triangle or ball.
Plastic wrap method:
Place a piece of plastic wrap on the counter and sprinkle a pinch of salt over it.
Add a portion of warm rice, place tarako in the center, and cover with more rice.
Use the plastic wrap to gently shape into a triangle or ball. - Add the Nori (Optional)
Wrap the onigiri with a strip of nori seaweed for extra texture and grip. - Serve & Enjoy!
Enjoy immediately or pack for a bento lunch!
Notes
- ✔ For extra umami: Try using mentaiko (spicy cod roe) instead of tarako for a bolder flavor.
✔ For a crispy texture: Lightly pan-fry the onigiri with butter or sesame oil for a crunchy exterior.
✔ For meal prep: Store in plastic wrap and refrigerate. Best eaten within 24 hours.
✔ For variety: Mix in furikake seasoning, green onions, or toasted sesame seeds for added depth.
✔ For a mild flavor: If tarako is too salty, mix it with a little mayonnaise before adding it to the rice.
When and Where Is Tarako Onigiri Enjoyed in Japan?
Among the many onigiri (rice balls) sold at Japanese convenience stores and supermarkets, tarako onigiri (salted cod roe) is consistently a top favorite—often vying for first or second place. Visitors from abroad tend to pick up tuna-mayo onigiri, but in fact, tarako or mentaiko (spicy cod roe) onigiri is hugely popular among Japanese people.
If you’re living outside Japan, it can be challenging to find tarako in a standard grocery store. However, some Japanese markets might carry mentaiko in the frozen section, so definitely give it a try.
Tarako onigiri makes for an easy, delicious lunch—perfect for busy days or as a simple bento snack for kids. Enjoy this taste of everyday Japanese convenience!