TigerChef

Sushi is open to an almost never-ending variation. Though many people are intimidated just by the idea of mastering sushi-making in the comfort of their own kitchen, it’s really not that complicated. And given that it’s an awfully popular dish, it certainly deserves a try.

The first and foremost thing to consider when making sushi is the rice. The standard long-grain rice is not sticky enough to use for sushi. You must use a sticky short-grain rice. The most recommended brands to be used for making sushi are Tamanishiki, Nishiki, or Botan. Follow the package instructions and cook up 3 cups of rice. Make sure to rinse the cooked rice in cold water before starting.

While the rice is cooking, prepare the seasoning.

• 1/3 cup wine vinegar
• 3 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt

Combine the 3 ingredients in a saucepan and place it over a medium flame. Stir the mixture to dissolve the sugar. Place the cooked rice into a large bowl. Using a wooden spoon, drizzle 1/4 of the seasoning over the rice. Using a spoon or spatula, gently fold the mixture into the rice. If clumps form, break them up, but be careful not to smash the rice. Add the remaining vinegar mixture, fold and allow the rice to sit for 5 minutes.

For the fish- You can use just about any type of fish. You are able to use it raw, cooked, marinated, fried, or boiled. Half a pound is sufficient for 4 people. Being that the top parts of the fish has the most flesh and is the juiciest, it is best to use for sushi. Simply cut the fish into small pieces.

In order to enhance the sushi, you can add any or all of the following, cut into long, thin strips:

1. -Pickled or assorted vegetables, such as cucumbers, carrots, avocado, cabbage, tomatoes, and peppers
2. -Sliced fruits, such as mangoes, lychees and melons
3. -Sesame seeds can be sprinkled over the sushi to add a subtle flavor

Besides for the rice, fish and vegetables, there are some condiments that add flavor to the sushi. They can either be added into the sushi itself or they can be served on the side as a dipping sauce.
-Wasabi, also known as horseradish, can be bought as a powder and mixed with equal parts water until a paste forms.
-Soy sauce is the best choice if your sushi has fish, since it will bring out the natural flavor of the fish.
-Pickled ginger should not be eaten with fish. Ginger is mostly used as a palette-cleanser when eating more than one type of sushi. In addition, ginger works great for indigestion.

To learn how to put sushi together, click here.

Filed under: Recipes • General

Tags: recipe, sushi