Enjoy making onigirazu? Then consider getting an onigirazu mold to make the perfect sushi sandwich for yourself!
Besides onigiri, I love making onigirazu—a compact, seaweed-wrapped rice sandwich—for my family. While you can shape onigirazu by hand, using a onigirazu mold makes it even easier. It helps you create tidy, even sandwiches that hold together well—and look just as good as they taste!
Interested in making onigirazu? Then you must try my Teriyaki Salmon Onigirazu and Ginger Pork Onigirazu recipes!
What is Onigirazu?
Onigirazu is a Japanese rice sandwich (also known as sushi sandwich) made by layering steamed rice and fillings, then wrapping everything in a sheet of nori (seaweed). It’s similar to onigiri, but shaped into a square or rectangle instead of a triangle. Easy to make and fun to eat, onigirazu is perfect for bentos, quick lunches, or meals on the go.
Why Use a Wooden Onigirazu Mold?
Making onigirazu by hand can be a bit tricky. Sometimes the rice sticks to your hands, or it’s hard to get the right shape. That’s where the mold comes in!
The most common molds are made of plastic, but if it’s within your budget, I highly recommend using a wooden mold. Here’s why:
- Neat, uniform shape: Your rice sandwiches will look clean and beautiful every time.
- Less mess: The mold keeps the rice and fillings from spilling out.
- Easy to use: Even kids can help press and shape the sandwiches!
- Portion control: It helps you measure just the right amount of rice and filling.
- Superior quality: The wooden mold is made from cedar wood, which smells amazing and has natural antibacterial properties.
- Makes a lovely gift: Especially for moms who make onigirazu often for their children.
Plus, it’s eco-friendly, reusable, and will last for years with proper care.
Where to Buy Wooden Onigirazu Mold
I’m lucky to have two beautiful wooden onigirazu molds at home—both were thoughtful gifts from JOC readers who are also talented woodmakers. Each one is handmade with care and available through their Etsy shops, where they take special orders.
1. Mark’s Wood Crafts
Mark is a skilled woodworker based in the U.S., and his molds are handcrafted from fragrant cedar wood. I’ve been using his mold for years, and it has held up wonderfully.
You can choose from three sizes:
- 3½″ × 2½″ – A compact size, perfect for kids or light lunches
- 3½″ × 3″ – The most popular size, great for everyday use
- 3½″ × 3½″ – A larger size for big appetites or extra fillings
Mark makes the molds in small batches, so there may be a short wait time. He offers free shipping within the U.S. and ships internationally, including to Australia.
2. Adjovi Woodwork by Sebastien
Sebastien runs his Etsy shop, Adjovi Woodwork, where he also makes beautiful onigirazu molds by hand. His mold is crafted from Alaskan cedar, known for its natural beauty and light weight.
His mold measures:
- 3¼″ × 3¼″ × 2¼″ – A great all-purpose size with a nice depth for fillings
Both molds are sturdy, beautifully made, and a joy to use. There isn’t a single nail in the design and I absolutely love the natural scent of the cedar wood. It reminds me of traditional cedar products from Japan and brings a little extra comfort to the kitchen.
How to Shape Onigirazu with the Mold
Here’s how I use the mold to shape onigirazu at home:
- Prepare your ingredients: Cooked rice (hot or warm), nori, and your favorite fillings.
- Lay plastic wrap on your work surface.
- Place a sheet of nori (shiny side down) in a diamond shape.
- Set the mold on top of the nori.
- Add about ½ cup of rice and sprinkle with a little salt.
- Add your fillings (see ideas below).
- Add another layer of rice.
- Lightly wet the lid so rice won’t stick, and press down gently but firmly.
- While pressing the lid, lift the mold.
- Wrap the nori corners over the rice sandwich.
- Wrap everything in plastic wrap and let it sit for 5 minutes to hold its shape.
- Use a sharp knife (rinsed in water) to slice in half for a clean cut.
That’s it! You now have a neatly shaped onigirazu ready to pack or enjoy right away.
Other Options
I understand that not everyone can afford to buy the wooden onigirazu mold, so I included other options here:
Plastic Onigirazu Mold
Shape By Hand (Without Using a Mold)
If you prefer not to use a mold, here’s my video tutorial on how to shape onigirazu by hand!
My Favorite Onigirazu Recipes
Here are my favorite onigirazu with different fillings:
Spam Onigirazu – A hearty combo made by wrapping fried eggs, furikake, lettuce, and Spam with steamed rice and crispy nori.
Chicken Katsu Onigirazu – This version features baked chicken katsu, tonkatsu sauce, mustard, steamed rice, and thinly sliced cabbage.
Bulgogi Onigirazu – I love making a big batch of Korean grilled beef so I can use the leftovers for onigirazu the next day. For a more filling wrap, try adding a fried egg and veggies like seasoned bean sprouts, spinach, carrots, and shiitake mushrooms.
I hope you found this post helpful! If you’re looking for more filling ideas or have any questions, feel free to leave a comment below. My team and I are always happy to help.