Japanese

The Japanese take sushi balls along when traveling because they provide good steady energy. Umeboshi plums are pinkish red and salt-pickled, with a sour salty taste. They aid digestion, enhance the immune system, and are very alkaline. They can be found in Japanese markets or natural food stores.

INGREDIENTS

1 cup (250 g) freshly cooked short-grain rice
6 umeboshi plums, pitted
2 nori seaweed sheets
Toasted sesame oil

METHOD

Wet hands and press some cooked rice into a small ball. Make a hole in the center, place inside an umeboshi plum, and press rice to reform ball. Repeat this procedure with remaining rice and plums.
Put balls in a tight-fitting container.
Cut nori seaweed sheets into thirds.
Brush squares with sesame oil and lightly toast over flame.
Put toasted sheets in container with rice balls, cover, and take on your trip.
At snack time, roll together nori squares and rice balls.

Makes 6

MIND REFRESHER

Stand straight, breathe normally, and watch he movement of your mind for 30 seconds.