Unveiling Tanjiro Kamado's Beloved Secret: Plum Kombu Rice Balls – A Recipe That Transcends Taste!

Tanjiro Kamado's favorite food is plum kombu rice balls. He is first seen eating them in the first episode of the anime, when he is trying to feed his sister, Nezuko. Plum kombu rice balls are a traditional Japanese snack made with rice, umeboshi plums, and kombu seaweed. They are a salty and savory snack that are often eaten as a quick meal or a snack on the go.

Tanjiro's love of plum kombu rice balls is significant because it shows his appreciation for simple, home-cooked food. He grew up in a poor family, and plum kombu rice balls were one of the few foods that his family could afford. They are a reminder of his childhood and his family's love.

Tanjiro also enjoys other Japanese foods, such as ramen, udon, and sushi. However, plum kombu rice balls remain his favorite food.

Plum kombu rice balls, or onigiri, are a delightful Japanese snack or meal.

Ingredients:

- 2 cups of Japanese short-grain rice

- 4 cups of water

- 1–2 pieces of kombu (dried kelp)

- Salt

- Umeboshi (pickled plum)

Instructions:

1. **Rinse the Rice:**

- Wash the rice in a strainer under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch.

2. **Cook the Rice:**

- In a rice cooker or a pot, combine the washed rice, water, and kombu.

- Let the rice soak in the water for about 30 minutes. If using a pot, soak the kombu separately for about 30 minutes before cooking.

- Cook the rice according to your rice cooker's instructions or on the stovetop. If using a pot, bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cover. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.

3. **Prepare Umeboshi (Pickled Plum):**

- Remove the pit from the umeboshi and chop the flesh into small pieces.

4. **Season the Rice:**

- Once the rice is cooked, remove the kombu and let the rice cool for a few minutes.

- While the rice is still warm, season it with a pinch of salt and mix gently.

5. **Forming the Rice Balls:**

- Wet your hands with a bit of water to prevent the rice from sticking. Take a small handful of rice and form it into a ball or triangle shape in your palm.

6. **Add Umeboshi Filling:**

- Make a small indentation in the center of the rice ball and place a piece of umeboshi inside. You can also mix the chopped umeboshi into the rice before shaping it.

7. **Wrap or Garnish (Optional):**

- If you like, you can wrap the rice ball in a strip of nori (seaweed) or sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds on the outside for added flavor.

8. **Serve or Store:**

- Enjoy your plum kombu rice balls immediately, or wrap them in plastic wrap to keep them fresh. They can be kept at room temperature for a few hours.