Chutoro Nigiri Sushi

Ingredients

• 200g (7 oz) chutoro (fatty tuna belly) 200g (7 oz) chutoro (fatty tuna belly)
• 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
• Wasabi, for garnish Wasabi, for garnish
• Soy sauce, for dipping Soy sauce, for dipping

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 50g, 5g
• Protein: 15g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
2. 2.
   Cook the rice according to the package instructions or using a rice cooker.
3. 3.
   In a small saucepan, heat the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt over low heat until the sugar and salt dissolve.
4. 4.
   Transfer the cooked rice to a large bowl and pour the vinegar mixture over it. Gently fold the rice with a wooden spatula to evenly distribute the vinegar.
5. 5.
   Let the rice cool to room temperature.
6. 6.
   Slice the chutoro into thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick.
7. 7.
   Take a small amount of sushi rice and shape it into a rectangular mound using wet hands.
8. 8.
   Place a slice of chutoro on top of the rice mound and gently press it to adhere.
9. 9.
   Repeat the process with the remaining rice and chutoro slices.
10. 10.
    Serve the Chutoro Nigiri Sushi with a small amount of wasabi and soy sauce on the side.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Chutoro — It is crucial to source high-quality chutoro from a reputable fishmonger or Japanese market. Look for fresh, marbled cuts with a vibrant color and firm texture. If chutoro is not available, you can substitute it with other fatty fish like salmon or yellowtail.

Tips & Tricks

• Use sushi rice that has been cooled to room temperature for the best texture and flavor.
• Wet your hands with water before shaping the rice to prevent it from sticking.
• Serve the sushi immediately after assembling to maintain the freshness of the fish.
• Experiment with different garnishes such as thinly sliced scallions or sesame seeds for added flavor and visual appeal.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, mix a small amount of wasabi with soy sauce before dipping the sushi.

Serving advice

Serve the Chutoro Nigiri Sushi on a beautiful platter or traditional sushi board. Arrange the sushi pieces neatly and garnish with a small dollop of wasabi. Encourage guests to dip the sushi lightly in soy sauce to enhance the flavors without overpowering the delicate taste of the chutoro.

Presentation advice

To elevate the presentation of Chutoro Nigiri Sushi, consider adding a touch of elegance by placing a small edible flower or microgreens on top of each sushi piece. This adds a pop of color and visual interest to the dish, making it even more enticing.