Iwashi Nigiri Sushi

Ingredients

• 8 fresh sardine fillets 8 fresh sardine fillets
• 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 serving Wasabi, for serving
• Soy sauce, for dipping Soy sauce, for dipping

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 3g, 0.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 50g, 2g
• Protein: 8g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1g

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 bowl, mix together the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until dissolved.
3. 3.
   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 seasoning. Let the rice cool to room temperature.
4. 4.
   Meanwhile, prepare the sardine fillets by removing any bones and scales. Cut each fillet into bite-sized pieces.
5. 5.
   In a shallow dish, marinate the sardine fillets in a soy-based sauce for 10 minutes.
6. 6.
   Take a small handful of sushi rice and shape it into a rectangular mound using wet hands.
7. 7.
   Place a piece of marinated sardine on top of the rice mound, gently pressing it down.
8. 8.
   Repeat the process with the remaining rice and sardine fillets.
9. 9.
   Serve the Iwashi Nigiri Sushi with a side of wasabi and soy sauce for dipping.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Sardines — Ensure that the sardines are fresh and properly filleted to remove any bones or scales. This will ensure a smooth and enjoyable eating experience.

Tips & Tricks

• To enhance the flavor of the sushi rice, add a small amount of finely chopped pickled ginger to the vinegar mixture.
• For a spicier kick, mix a small amount of wasabi into the soy sauce before dipping the sushi.
• If fresh sardines are not available, you can use canned sardines in oil as a substitute. Drain the oil before using.

Serving advice

Serve the Iwashi Nigiri Sushi as an appetizer or as part of a sushi platter. Arrange the sushi neatly on a plate and garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or thinly sliced green onions for an added touch of elegance.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Iwashi Nigiri Sushi on a beautiful sushi platter or a traditional Japanese wooden tray. Garnish with a small mound of freshly grated daikon radish and a sprig of shiso leaves for a visually appealing presentation.