Liaoning-style Clam Nigiri Sushi

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the traditional Japanese Hamaguri nigiri sushi is transformed into a Liaoning-style delicacy. The original dish uses a variety of fish, while the Liaoning version focuses on the use of fresh clams, which are abundant in the region's coastal waters. Additionally, the sushi rice is seasoned with Liaoning's famous black vinegar, giving it a unique flavor profile that sets it apart from traditional Japanese sushi. We alse have the original recipe for Hamaguri nigiri sushi, so you can check it out.

• 12 fresh clams 12 fresh clams
• 2 cups (470ml) sushi rice 2 cups (470ml) sushi rice
• 4 tablespoons black vinegar 4 tablespoons black vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sugar 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 scallions, finely chopped 2 scallions, finely chopped

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 1g, 0g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 55g, 2g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Rinse the clams thoroughly under cold water to remove any sand or debris.
2. 2.
   Steam the clams for 5-7 minutes until they open. Discard any clams that do not open.
3. 3.
   Cook the sushi rice according to package instructions.
4. 4.
   In a small bowl, mix the black vinegar, sugar, and salt until dissolved.
5. 5.
   Once the sushi rice is cooked, transfer it to a large bowl and gently fold in the black vinegar mixture. Allow the rice to cool slightly.
6. 6.
   Take a small handful of sushi rice and shape it into a rectangular mound.
7. 7.
   Place a steamed clam on top of each rice mound.
8. 8.
   Garnish with finely chopped scallions.
9. 9.
   Serve the Liaoning-style Clam Nigiri Sushi immediately.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Clams — Ensure that the clams are fresh and discard any that do not open during steaming.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, drizzle a small amount of soy sauce over the Liaoning-style Clam Nigiri Sushi before serving.
• If fresh clams are not available, you can use canned clams as a substitute, but be sure to drain them well before using.
• Experiment with different types of vinegar, such as rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar, for a unique twist on the dish.
• To enhance the presentation, you can garnish the sushi with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds.
• Serve Liaoning-style Clam Nigiri Sushi as an appetizer or as part of a sushi platter for a complete dining experience.

Serving advice

Serve Liaoning-style Clam Nigiri Sushi on a traditional sushi platter or a decorative plate. Accompany it with pickled ginger, wasabi, and soy sauce for dipping. Enjoy each piece in one bite to fully savor the combination of flavors.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Liaoning-style Clam Nigiri Sushi neatly on the serving platter, ensuring that the clams are centered on each rice mound. Garnish with a sprinkle of finely chopped scallions for a pop of color. Consider using a bamboo sushi mat to shape the rice mounds uniformly.