7-Eleven Ebiten Tempura Shrimp Rice Ball: Your New Go-To Snack!

Imagine wandering through Japan’s bustling convenience store aisles and stumbling upon an innovation in the world of rice snacks.

This isn’t your garden-variety rice ball; this is an enhancement of the classic tenmusu, boasting a bolder statement. Wrapped partly in nori, this snack defies convention by placing not one, but three tempura shrimps on the outside.

7-Eleven, a pioneer in convenient gastronomy, has rolled out what they call Ebiten tempura—a playful nod to the traditional tempura shrimp rice ball. A trio of succulent shrimp tempura lay nested atop the rice, secured by a slender strip of seaweed, disrupting the symmetry with its tempting protrusion.

• Related: Instant Tempura and Abura-age By Nissin

Here’s what you might find intriguing about the Ebiten:

• Craftsmanship: Moving beyond the typical onigiri confines, Ebiten is a fusion of flavor and texture with its crispy shrimp set against the soft, seasoned rice.
• Unique Flavor: Each shrimp is enveloped in a rich, sweet soy sauce, challenging the taste buds with a complex yet familiar umami experience.
• Herbal Touch: Subtle hints of shiso, akin to Japanese basil, introduce a fresh note to the bold ensemble, complementing the shrimp’s richness.
• Pricing: Pegged at 324 yen, this rice creation sports a price tag that’s above the average onigiri, reflecting its premium positioning.

   

Despite its cost, the temptation of these extra tempura delights is irresistible, almost justifying the investment for a singular experience in handheld cuisine.

7-Eleven’s creation seems to emerge from a visionary’s kitchen lab, surprising patrons with its audacious take on a traditional favorite. 

Discover this lavish combination of rice and shrimp where deep-frying meets delicate assembly for a gourmet twist, and remember that sometimes indulgence can be found in the most convenient of places.

• Related: Mouth-watering 7 Eleven Snacks In Japan You Have To Try!

Crafting the Ultimate Tempura Shrimp Onigiri

For a flavorsome tempura shrimp rice ball, you’ll start with warm, slightly salted sushi rice. Shape a portion into a flat oval and place a piece of crispy tempura shrimp in the center. Wrap the rice around the shrimp, forming a ball shape, and encase it in a strip of nori for that traditional touch.

Ingredients for an Exceptional Shrimp Tempura Rice Ball

To assemble an outstanding ebiten rice ball, have these ingredients ready:

• Sushi rice
• Salt
• Cooked tempura shrimp
• Nori (seaweed) sheets
• Sweet soy sauce (optional)

The Cultural Significance of Rice Balls in Japan

Rice balls, or onigiri, are a staple in Japan because they’re convenient, versatile, and historically significant, often seen in packed lunches and during picnics. Each rice ball is a handheld treat reflecting Japan’s ingenuity in creating simple yet delicious food.

Perfecting Frozen Tempura Shrimp

When cooking frozen tempura shrimp, here are some quick tips:

1. Preheat your oven to the indicated temperature.
2. Arrange shrimp on a baking sheet without overcrowding.
3. Bake until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway for even cooking.

Differentiating Between Shrimp Tempura and Regular Fried Shrimp

Shrimp tempura is about a light, airy batter and a swift fry for that delicate crunch. It contrasts with regular fried shrimp which often have a heavier coating and can be fried for a bit longer resulting in a different texture.

The Reason Behind Stretching Shrimp for Tempura

Stretching out tempura shrimp ensures an elegant presentation and even cooking. It also helps prevent the shrimp from curling up due to the heat, giving a consistent texture and appearance.