We are introducing rice balls from Japan that are unpopular among people from overseas. It seems that products people are not accustomed to eating are generally less popular.
Japan’s Rice Balls! Worst Ranking
1. Umeboshi Rice Ball（梅干し）
Many people find Umeboshi (pickled plum) difficult to enjoy due to its sourness.
Although it is a familiar and popular food among Japanese people, the sour taste tends to be a factor in its unpopularity among foreigners.
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2. Mentaiko Rice Ball（明太子＆たらこ）
The Mentaiko rice ball contains salted cod roe, which is raw fish eggs.
Because many people are not used to eating raw fish eggs, it is considered unpopular.
While Mentaiko rice balls are popular among Japanese people, the raw fish eggs tend to be disliked.
However, there’s information that when sold as “Cod roe” in New York, it became explosively popular, so it might be a case of people judging it without tasting.
Once you try it, you might get hooked. The flavor is a bit spicy, like small eggs with a salty taste that is more addictive than caviar for some people.
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3. Ikura Rice Ball（いくら）
Sometimes seen in Japan, there are rice balls with Ikura (salmon roe) inside. Alternatively, they are sold as long rolls similar to hand-rolled sushi, with Ikura inside.
Ikura is salmon roe that is marinated in soy sauce. When chewed, it pops in your mouth, spreading the flavor of the eggs.
Ikura is a popular sushi topping in Japan, and this rice ball is an extension of that.
Preferences may vary, but it’s a rice ball worth trying.
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What are the popular rice balls?
The most popular rice ball is “Tuna Mayo,” followed by “Salmon.”
It seems that familiarity plays a strong role here.
There are several types of Tuna Mayo, including “Japanese-style Tuna Mayo,” which is recommended if you want to enjoy a Japanese flavor.
If you like Tuna Mayo, you might also enjoy “Ebi Mayo,” which contains boiled shrimp mixed with mayonnaise.
Additionally, rice balls with chicken, such as “Spicy Chicken Karaage” and “Teriyaki Chicken Mayonnaise,” are likely to suit your taste.
Please give them a try!
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