Nigiri Sushi
Nigiri sushi consists of hand-pressed vinegared rice topped with a slice of fresh fish or other seafood. This recipe guides you through preparing the seasoned rice and forming the classic pieces. It's a delicate and flavorful dish that highlights the quality of its simple ingredients.
An original recipe by Forkin
- Total time
- 1 hr 20 min
- Serves
- 4
- Difficulty
- Hard
Allergen information: may contain crustaceans, fish, gluten, and soy. Always check ingredient packaging if you have an allergy.
Mise en place
Ingredients
Converted for display; the recipe amounts stay equivalent.
Ingredients
- 300 gsushi rice, uncooked
- 360 mlwater
sushi seasoning
- 45 mlrice vinegar
- 15 gsugar
- 2.5 gsalt
toppings
- 150 gtuna sashimi grade, sliced
- 150 gsalmon sashimi grade, sliced
- 8 pcsshrimp, cooked, butterflied(optional)
for serving
- 10 gwasabi(optional)
- 30 mlsoy sauce(optional)
- 20 gpickled ginger(optional)
Equipment
pot · rice paddle · bowl · lid · knife
The method
Step by step
- 1
Rinse the sushi rice thoroughly in cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and ensures proper texture.
About 5 min
Cook’s note: Use a fine-mesh sieve or a bowl, changing the water multiple times.
- 2
Combine the rinsed sushi rice and water in a medium pot with a tight-fitting lid.
- 3
Bring the rice to a boil over high heat, then immediately reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
About 15 min
Cook’s note: Do not lift the lid during simmering to trap steam.
- 4
Remove the pot from heat and let it rest, still covered, for 10 minutes.
About 10 min
Cook’s note: This allows the rice to finish steaming and absorb any remaining moisture.
- 5
While the rice rests, prepare the sushi seasoning by combining the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt in a small bowl. Stir until the sugar and salt are completely dissolved.
About 5 min
Cook’s note: You can gently warm the mixture in a microwave for 10-15 seconds to help dissolve the solids, but don't boil it.
- 6
Transfer the cooked rice to a large, wide, non-metallic bowl or a hangiri (wooden sushi rice tub).
About 1 min
Cook’s note: A wooden bowl helps absorb excess moisture and cool the rice evenly.
- 7
Pour the sushi seasoning evenly over the hot rice.
- 8
Using a rice paddle or a wooden spoon, gently fold the seasoning into the rice with a cutting motion. Avoid mashing the grains.
About 3 min
Cook’s note: Work quickly to distribute the seasoning while the rice is still warm.
- 9
Fan the rice or let it cool at room temperature until it reaches body temperature, about 20-30 minutes, covering it with a damp cloth to prevent drying.
About 20 min
Cook’s note: The fanning helps to create a glossy texture and cool the rice quickly.
- 10
Prepare your desired fish and seafood toppings by slicing them into appropriate nigiri-sized pieces, if not already done.
About 5 min
Cook’s note: Each slice should be about 2-3 inches long and about 1/4 inch thick.
- 11
Moisten your hands with water to prevent the rice from sticking.
Cook’s note: Keep a bowl of water nearby for frequent moistening.
- 12
Take a small amount of rice, about the size of a golf ball, and gently press it into an oval shape in the palm of one hand.
About 10 min
Cook’s note: The rice should be pressed firmly enough to hold its shape but not too tightly.
- 13
Spread a tiny dab of wasabi on one side of a fish slice.
Cook’s note: This acts as a 'glue' and adds flavor. Adjust to your spice preference.
- 14
Place the fish slice, wasabi-side down, onto the formed rice oval.
- 15
Gently press the fish onto the rice with your fingers, shaping and molding the nigiri until it is firm and cohesive.
Cook’s note: Use light pressure to avoid crushing the rice or fish.
- 16
Repeat the process with the remaining rice and toppings.
- 17
Serve immediately with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger on the side.
Keep it good
Nigiri sushi is best consumed fresh due to the raw fish and delicate rice texture.
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