1.
inari sushi; sushi rice stuffed in sweetened fried tofu pouches
A type of sushi consisting of vinegared rice packed inside pouches of deep-fried tofu (abura-age) that have been simmered in a sweet soy sauce mixture. A popular, affordable everyday sushi often found at convenience stores and bento shops.
Usage
Named after the Shinto deity 稲荷, whose fox messengers are said to be fond of fried tofu. Often shortened to おいなりさん in casual speech, with the honorific さん reflecting affection for the food. It is one of the most common types of sushi eaten at home and is a staple of bento culture.
Common collocations
- おいなりさん (casual/affectionate name for inari sushi)
- 稲荷寿司を作る (to make inari sushi)
- 油揚げ (fried tofu pouch — the main wrapping ingredient)