Onigiri (Japanese Rice Balls)

Instructions:

1. 1. Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. 2. In a pot, combine the sushi rice and water. Heat on medium high until boiling, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 10 minutes.
3. 3. Remove the pot from heat and let the rice stand, still covered, for another 10 minutes. Do not remove the lid during this time.
4. 4. When the rice is cool enough to handle, wet your hands to prevent sticking, and take a handful of rice. Make an indentation in the rice, and place a umeboshi in it. Mold the rice around the umeboshi, and shape into a triangular ball. Repeat for remaining rice and umeboshi.
5. 5. Wrap each onigiri with a sheet of nori.
6. 6. Sprinkle sesame seeds on the onigiri for added flavor and crunch (optional).
7. 7. Enjoy your Onigiri as is, or with a side of soy sauce for dipping.