Akami Nigiri Sushi

Ingredients

• 200g (7 oz) sushi-grade tuna 200g (7 oz) sushi-grade tuna
• 2 cups (470ml) sushi rice 2 cups (470ml) sushi rice
• 4 tablespoons rice vinegar 4 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons sugar 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• Zest of 1 yuzu (optional) Zest of 1 yuzu (optional)
• Wasabi paste, for serving Wasabi paste, for serving
• Soy sauce, for serving Soy sauce, for serving
• Pickled ginger, for serving Pickled ginger, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 2g, 0.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 50g, 2g
• Protein: 10g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Cook the rice according to the package instructions.
2. 2.
   In a small saucepan, heat the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt over low heat until dissolved. Remove from heat and let it cool.
3. 3.
   Once the rice is cooked, transfer it to a large bowl. Gradually pour the vinegar mixture over the rice while gently folding it in with a wooden spatula. Add the yuzu zest if desired. Allow the rice to cool to room temperature.
4. 4.
   Slice the tuna into thin strips, about 1 cm (0.4 in) wide and 5 cm (2 in) long.
5. 5.
   Wet your hands with water and take a small handful of sushi rice. Shape it into a rectangular mound, about 2.5 cm (1 in) in length.
6. 6.
   Place a slice of tuna on top of the rice, gently pressing it down to adhere.
7. 7.
   Repeat the process with the remaining rice and tuna slices.
8. 8.
   Serve the Akami Nigiri Sushi with wasabi paste, soy sauce, and pickled ginger.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Tuna — Ensure you use sushi-grade tuna for the best flavor and safety. It should be fresh, firm, and have a vibrant red color.

Tips & Tricks

• Wetting your hands with water prevents the rice from sticking to your fingers while shaping the nigiri.
• Use a sharp knife to slice the tuna for clean and precise cuts.
• Experiment with different garnishes like sesame seeds or thinly sliced scallions for added flavor and visual appeal.
• Adjust the amount of wasabi and soy sauce according to your personal taste preferences.
• Enjoy each piece of Akami Nigiri Sushi in one bite to fully experience the combination of flavors.

Serving advice

Serve the Akami Nigiri Sushi on a beautiful platter or traditional sushi board. Arrange the nigiri neatly in rows, allowing the vibrant red tuna to be the star of the presentation. Garnish with a sprinkle of yuzu zest or a small edible flower for an elegant touch.

Presentation advice

The presentation of Akami Nigiri Sushi is all about simplicity and precision. Ensure that each piece is uniform in size and shape, with the tuna covering the rice completely. The contrasting colors of the tuna and rice should be visually appealing, creating an enticing display of culinary artistry.