Chinese Aristocrat-style Grilled Eel Rice Bowl

Ingredients

In this adaptation of the original Japanese Hitsumabushi, we have incorporated Chinese aristocrat cuisine elements to create a unique flavor profile. The marinade for the grilled eel includes Chinese spices such as star anise, ginger, and Sichuan peppercorns, which infuse the eel with a distinctively Chinese aroma. Additionally, the sauce is enriched with Chinese ingredients like oyster sauce and Shaoxing wine, adding depth and complexity to the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Hitsumabushi, so you can check it out.

• 4 eel fillets (about 400g / 14 oz) 4 eel fillets (about 400g / 14 oz)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine
• 1 tablespoon honey 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorns, crushed 1 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorns, crushed
• 2 cups cooked jasmine rice 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• Sesame seeds, for garnish Sesame seeds, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 380 kcal / 1590 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 50g, 5g
• Protein: 18g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. 2.
   In a bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, Shaoxing wine, honey, grated ginger, and crushed Sichuan peppercorns.
3. 3.
   Place the eel fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let them marinate for 30 minutes.
4. 4.
   Grill the eel fillets for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked through and slightly charred.
5. 5.
   Remove the eel from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, slice the eel into bite-sized pieces.
6. 6.
   To serve, divide the cooked jasmine rice into four bowls. Top each bowl with the grilled eel slices.
7. 7.
   Drizzle the remaining marinade over the eel and rice.
8. 8.
   Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Eel — Ensure that the eel fillets are fresh and properly cleaned before marinating. If fresh eel is not available, you can use frozen eel fillets, but make sure to thaw them thoroughly before marinating.

Tips & Tricks

• If you prefer a spicier flavor, add a pinch of chili flakes to the marinade.
• For an extra touch of luxury, garnish the dish with edible gold flakes.
• If you don't have access to a grill, you can also cook the eel fillets in a hot skillet or under the broiler.

Serving advice

To fully enjoy the flavors of this Chinese aristocrat-style Grilled Eel Rice Bowl, it is recommended to eat it in three different ways: first, savor the eel and rice as they are; second, add some additional sauce and toppings to enhance the flavors; and finally, mix the remaining eel, rice, and sauce together for a delightful combination of textures and tastes.

Presentation advice

Present the Grilled Eel Rice Bowl in elegant individual bowls, with the eel slices arranged neatly on top of the rice. Garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and a few slices of green onion for a pop of color. Serve with small side dishes of extra sauce and toppings for guests to customize their bowls.