Kome (Rice)
Kome (Rice)
Rice is Japan's most important crop, and has been cultivated across the country for over 2000 years. It is the primary staple food of the Japanese diet and of such fundamental importance to the Japanese culture that it was once used as currency, and the word for cooked rice (gohan) has become synonymous with the general meaning of "meal".
A bowl of cooked rice is a central part of traditional Japanese meals, but the grain is also processed into several different types of products including alcohol, vinegar and flour. The following are some common rice products and a list of common rice dishes that can be found across the country.
Omusubi, Onigiri (Rice balls)
These are made by rolling rice in the palms of the hands. They are also called onigiri. Usually, they are made into triangular or round shapes with a pickled plum or fish in the middle and wrapped with laver on the outside. Like sandwiches for the Americans, they are the most popular item for carrying along when on outing or hiking. In urban convenience stores, they have become popular food items for single men and women.