If you have a craving for something irresistibly delicious and easy to make, then Lawson Style “Devil’s Onigiri” Rice Ball is about to become your new favorite. This delightfully simple rice ball combines the crunchy, seasoned tempura bits with the fresh, umami-rich flavor of aonori seaweed, making every bite a perfect balance of texture and taste. It’s the kind of guilty pleasure that perfectly captures why this snack became a beloved staple at Lawson convenience stores in Japan. Trust me, once you try the Lawson Style “Devil’s Onigiri” Rice Ball, you’ll understand why it’s such a cult classic—crispy, savory, and downright addictive.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering just a few straightforward ingredients is all it takes to whip up Lawson Style “Devil’s Onigiri” Rice Ball. Each component plays an essential role—whether it’s lending texture, flavor, or a touch of vibrant color, these ingredients come together in perfect harmony.
- Short-grain sushi rice: The foundation of any great onigiri, it’s sticky and moist, perfect for shaping and holding all the yummy fillings.
- Seasoned tempura bits (tenkasu): These crispy morsels provide that addictive crunch and savory punch that define the “devil” character of the onigiri.
- Aonori (green seaweed flakes): Adds a subtle oceanic aroma and lovely green flecks for a pop of color and flavor.
- Soy sauce: For seasoning, bringing that deep umami richness that ties everything together.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances the rice’s natural sweetness and balances the other flavors.
How to Make Lawson Style “Devil’s Onigiri” Rice Ball
Step 1: Prepare the Rice
Start by cooking your short-grain sushi rice according to the package instructions or your preferred method. Once cooked, let it cool just slightly until it is warm enough to handle but not hot. This ensures the rice sticks together but won’t burn your hands. Adding a tiny pinch of salt directly into the rice at this stage will bring out its natural sweetness and enhance overall flavor.
Step 2: Season the Tempura Bits
While the rice is cooking, grab your seasoned tempura bits, the star crispy ingredient. If your tenkasu isn’t pre-seasoned, toss it in a little soy sauce and mix well to infuse that savory depth typical of Lawson’s devil’s onigiri. This step is crucial because those little crunchy bites carry most of the flavor punch and give the rice ball its signature addictive quality.
Step 3: Mix Ingredients Together
In a large bowl, gently combine the warm rice with the seasoned tempura bits and a sprinkle of aonori seaweed flakes. Be careful not to over-mix or smash the rice; you want to preserve the stickiness but also evenly distribute those crunchy tempura bits for every bite.
Step 4: Shape the Rice Ball
Wet your hands lightly to prevent sticking and scooping around 1/3 cup of the rice mixture. Fold it slowly into a tidy triangle or round shape—whichever you prefer for your onigiri. Press firmly but gently so the onigiri holds together without being too dense. Don’t be shy to pack it just right; the shape is part of the fun!
How to Serve Lawson Style “Devil’s Onigiri” Rice Ball
Garnishes
Finishing touches bring this snack from tasty to spectacular. A light dusting of extra aonori or a few sesame seeds sprinkled on top adds visual appeal and a subtle nutty flavor. If you want an extra umami kick, a brush of soy sauce or a thin strip of nori seaweed wrapped around the rice ball will elevate it beautifully.
Side Dishes
The Lawson Style “Devil’s Onigiri” Rice Ball pairs wonderfully with simple sides that let the main snack shine. Try it alongside a bowl of miso soup to warm your soul or a crisp, fresh cucumber salad to balance the rich tempura crunch. Pickled vegetables add a nice tang contrast and tie the flavors together perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress friends or family? Serve these delicious rice balls on a wooden platter lined with bamboo leaves for that authentic feel. You can also dress them up in colorful bento boxes, alongside other small bites like tamagoyaki (Japanese rolled omelette) or edamame, turning this humble snack into a beautiful, shareable treat. Experiment with shaping your onigiri into fun shapes like hearts or rectangles for a personal touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store your Lawson Style “Devil’s Onigiri” Rice Balls in an airtight container at room temperature if you plan to eat them within a few hours. Avoid refrigerating if possible, as the rice can harden and lose that lovely soft texture.
Freezing
This rice ball freezes well if you want to prepare in advance. Wrap each onigiri tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. When frozen, they keep their flavor and texture nicely for up to one month. Just be sure to thaw completely before reheating.
Reheating
To bring your Loiswn Style “Devil’s Onigiri” Rice Ball back to life, steam or microwave them gently until warmed through. If microwaving, unwrap from plastic and cover with a slightly damp paper towel to maintain moisture. The goal is to bring back that soft, sticky rice texture while keeping the tempura bits still a bit crunchy.
FAQs
What makes Lawson Style “Devil’s Onigiri” Rice Ball different from other onigiri?
This version stands out because of the unique use of seasoned tempura bits and aonori, which add an addictive crunch and umami flavor that typical plain or salmon-filled onigiri do not offer.
Can I use other types of rice for this recipe?
Short-grain sushi rice is preferable due to its sticky texture, which helps the onigiri hold its shape. Long-grain rice won’t stick well and may fall apart when you try to shape it.
Where can I find seasoned tempura bits?
You can often find tenkasu in Asian grocery stores. If you can’t find pre-seasoned ones, you can buy plain tempura bits and season them yourself with soy sauce and a pinch of salt for that Lawson Style “Devil’s Onigiri” Rice Ball flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes! The basic Lawson Style “Devil’s Onigiri” Rice Ball is vegetarian-friendly, especially if you ensure your tempura bits do not contain seafood or meat-based seasonings.
How do I pack this rice ball for a lunchbox without it getting soggy?
Wrap each onigiri individually with plastic wrap and pack in a lunchbox with an absorbent liner or paper towel. Keep any additional sauces separate until ready to eat to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess.
Final Thoughts
Once you have tried making and tasting the Lawson Style “Devil’s Onigiri” Rice Ball, you’ll find it hard to go back to plain rice balls again. This recipe combines simplicity and addictive flavors with just a few ingredients, making it perfect for a quick snack or a charming addition to any meal. Give it a go and share the guilty pleasure with friends—it’s a cozy, crunchy, and utterly satisfying treat that’s waiting to become your kitchen favorite.