Cuban-style Tuna Nigiri Sushi

Ingredients

In this Cuban adaptation of Maguro Nigiri Sushi, we infuse the traditional Japanese dish with Cuban flavors. The original sushi is transformed by marinating the maguro in a zesty citrus and garlic sauce, which adds a tangy and aromatic element to the dish. Additionally, the sushi rice is prepared in a Cuban style, incorporating the flavors of the Caribbean. The garnish of tropical fruits like mango and pineapple further enhances the Cuban influence, giving the dish a refreshing and exotic twist. We alse have the original recipe for Maguro nigiri sushi, so you can check it out.

• 200g (7 oz) fresh maguro (tuna) 200g (7 oz) fresh maguro (tuna)
• 2 tablespoons lime juice 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon orange juice 1 tablespoon orange juice
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon honey 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 cup sushi rice 1 cup sushi rice
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sugar 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• Mango slices, for garnish Mango slices, for garnish
• Pineapple slices, for garnish Pineapple slices, for garnish
• Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 4g, 0.7g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 40g, 4g
• Protein: 15g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the lime juice, minced garlic, orange juice, soy sauce, olive oil, and honey. Mix well to create the marinade.
2. 2.
   Slice the maguro into thin pieces and place them in a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the tuna, ensuring each piece is coated. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   Meanwhile, rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
4. 4.
   In a small saucepan, heat the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until dissolved. Pour the mixture over the cooked rice and gently fold it in to evenly distribute the flavors.
5. 5.
   Once the maguro has marinated, remove it from the marinade and pat dry with a paper towel.
6. 6.
   Take a small handful of sushi rice and shape it into a rectangular mound. Place a slice of marinated maguro on top of the rice.
7. 7.
   Garnish each nigiri sushi with a slice of mango, pineapple, and a cilantro leaf.
8. 8.
   Repeat the process until all the ingredients are used.
9. 9.
   Serve the Cuban-style Tuna Nigiri Sushi immediately and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Maguro (tuna) — Ensure you use fresh, sushi-grade tuna for the best flavor and texture. If you can't find maguro, you can substitute it with other fresh fish like salmon or yellowtail.
• Mango — Choose a ripe mango that is slightly soft to the touch. Peel and slice it into thin pieces for garnishing the sushi.
• Pineapple — Use fresh pineapple and slice it into thin pieces. If you prefer a more caramelized flavor, you can grill the pineapple slices before garnishing the sushi.

Tips & Tricks

• To achieve perfectly shaped nigiri sushi, wet your hands with water before handling the sushi rice. This will prevent the rice from sticking to your hands.
• For an extra burst of flavor, you can sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds on top of the sushi before garnishing with the fruits.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, add a few drops of hot sauce or a pinch of chili flakes to the marinade.
• Experiment with different tropical fruits like papaya or passion fruit for unique variations of Cuban-style Tuna Nigiri Sushi.
• Serve the sushi with a side of soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger for an authentic sushi experience.

Serving advice

Arrange the Cuban-style Tuna Nigiri Sushi on a beautiful platter and serve it as an appetizer or part of a sushi feast. Pair it with a refreshing mojito or a tropical fruit-infused iced tea to complement the flavors.

Presentation advice

To create an eye-catching presentation, arrange the nigiri sushi in a neat row on a rectangular plate. Garnish each piece with a slice of mango, pineapple, and a cilantro leaf. Sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds over the sushi for an added touch of elegance.