Heart-Healthy Shrimp Onigiri

Elevate your lunchtime routine with these heart-healthy shrimp onigiri, a wholesome twist on a classic Japanese favorite. Made with nutrient-packed brown rice, succulent shrimp lightly seared in a flavorful mix of low-sodium soy sauce and sesame oil, and creamy diced avocado, these rice balls are as delicious as they are nourishing. The addition of rice vinegar lends a subtle tang, while toasted sesame seeds and fresh green onions add a delightful crunch and aroma. Wrapped in nori for a convenient handheld snack, these onigiri are not only packed with healthy ingredients but also brimming with authentic umami flavors. Perfect for meal prep or an impressive appetizer, this recipe is quick to assemble and made with heart-smart substitutions that don’t compromise on taste. Ready in under an hour, these shrimp onigiri are a guilt-free treat that the whole family will love!

Nutriscore Rating: 76/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:50 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 cups Brown rice
• 2.5 cups Water
• 8 oz Medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp Low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tsp Sesame oil
• 1 tbsp Rice vinegar
• 1 medium Avocado, diced
• 2 large Nori sheets
• 1 tbsp Toasted sesame seeds
• 2 tbsp Chopped green onion

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the brown rice in a fine mesh strainer under cold water until the water runs clear.

Step 2

Combine the rinsed rice and water in a medium saucepan over high heat. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 30 minutes until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed.

Step 3

While the rice is cooking, prepare the shrimp. In a small bowl, mix the low-sodium soy sauce and sesame oil.

Step 4

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Pour the soy sauce mixture over the shrimp, tossing to coat, then remove from heat.

Step 5

Once the rice is cooked, transfer it to a large bowl and gently stir in the rice vinegar.

Step 6

Lay a sheet of plastic wrap on a flat surface. Place a small handful of rice (about 1/3 cup) in the center of the plastic wrap and flatten slightly.

Step 7

Place 1-2 shrimp pieces and a few avocado cubes in the center of the rice. Gently mold the rice around the filling using the plastic wrap to form a triangle shape. Press gently but firmly to ensure it holds together. Repeat with the remaining rice, shrimp, and avocado.

Step 8

Cut the nori sheets into strips and wrap a strip around the bottom of each onigiri.

Step 9

Serve onigiri topped with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onion for garnish.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1477.1 grams (1477.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1111

Total Fat 45.70g	59%
Saturated Fat 7.00g	35%
Polyunsaturated Fat 5.80g
Cholesterol 443mg	148%
Sodium 1533mg	67%
Total Carbohydrate 113.10g	41%
Dietary Fiber 19.80g	71%
Total Sugars 2.70g
Protein 74.60g	149%

Vitamin D 406IU	2028%
Calcium 280mg	22%
Iron 6mg	33%
Potassium 1699mg	36%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 35.4%

Protein: 25.7%

Carbs: 38.9%