-Omusubi are often called rice balls in English. The word comes from a Japanese verb meaning "to take hold[of something]with one's hands." When you make omusubi, you hold cooked rice in one palm and then pack it with both hands into a ball - a motion that looks like a hand-shake. You can use a variety of fillings and toppings to add flavor to omusubi. Sound like sushi? Yes,it is similar to sushi, but its purpose may be completely different from sushi's. Unlike sushi, omusubi is an easy-to-carry "food for the road and is eaten in more casual ways. Omusubi can be eaten as an everyday food-like a bagel for breakfast or a hamburger for lunch-or as convenient, portable snack. In short, you can enjoy omusubi at any time you like in any way you like with your favorite fillings and toppings added. It is a perfect food for busy New Yorkers.