Yemeni-inspired Spiced Nigiri Sushi

Ingredients

In this Yemeni-inspired adaptation of nigiri sushi, we incorporate traditional Yemeni spices and ingredients to infuse the dish with the flavors of Yemen. The use of cumin, coriander, and turmeric in the sushi rice adds a warm and aromatic twist. The toppings, such as marinated lamb and pickled vegetables, are commonly found in Yemeni cuisine, providing a unique and flavorful experience. We alse have the original recipe for Nigiri, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (470ml) sushi rice 2 cups (470ml) sushi rice
• 4 cups (940ml) water 4 cups (940ml) water
• 1 tablespoon cumin 1 tablespoon cumin
• 1 tablespoon coriander 1 tablespoon coriander
• 1 teaspoon turmeric 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 200g marinated lamb, thinly sliced 200g marinated lamb, thinly sliced
• 1 cucumber, thinly sliced 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1 carrot, thinly sliced 1 carrot, thinly sliced
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced 1 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup (60ml) rice vinegar 1/4 cup (60ml) rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons sugar 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1/2 cup (120g) plain yogurt 1/2 cup (120g) plain yogurt
• 1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped 1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
• Nori seaweed sheets, cut into strips Nori seaweed sheets, cut into strips
• Soy sauce, for serving Soy sauce, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 55g, 5g
• Protein: 15g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
2. 2.
   In a saucepan, combine the sushi rice and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Cook for 15 minutes or until the rice is tender.
3. 3.
   In a small bowl, mix together the cumin, coriander, turmeric, and salt. Set aside.
4. 4.
   In a separate bowl, combine the rice vinegar and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
5. 5.
   Transfer the cooked rice to a large bowl. Sprinkle the spice mixture over the rice and gently fold until well combined.
6. 6.
   Spread the rice vinegar mixture over the cooked rice, gently folding to evenly distribute.
7. 7.
   In a separate bowl, mix together the plain yogurt, chopped mint, and cilantro. Set aside.
8. 8.
   To assemble the nigiri sushi, take a small portion of seasoned rice and shape it into an oblong shape using wet hands.
9. 9.
   Place a slice of marinated lamb, cucumber, carrot, or red onion on top of each rice mound.
10. 10.
    Garnish with a small dollop of the yogurt sauce and a strip of nori seaweed.
11. 11.
    Serve the Yemeni-inspired Spiced Nigiri Sushi with soy sauce for dipping.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Marinated lamb — Ensure the lamb is thinly sliced for easy topping placement on the nigiri sushi.
• Rice vinegar — Use rice vinegar specifically for sushi to achieve the desired flavor and acidity.
• Nori seaweed sheets — Cut the nori sheets into thin strips to add a touch of umami and texture to the sushi.

Tips & Tricks

• To save time, prepare the pickled vegetables and yogurt sauce in advance.
• Experiment with different toppings such as pickled radishes or spiced chickpeas for added variety.
• Wet your hands before shaping the rice to prevent it from sticking.

Serving advice

Serve the Yemeni-inspired Spiced Nigiri Sushi as an appetizer or part of a sushi platter. Arrange the sushi neatly on a serving dish and garnish with additional fresh herbs for an attractive presentation.

Presentation advice

Arrange the nigiri sushi in a visually appealing pattern on a rectangular plate. Use vibrant colors from the toppings and garnishes to create an eye-catching display. Serve with a small dish of soy sauce for dipping.