Syrian-inspired Otoro Nigiri Sushi

Ingredients

In this Syrian-inspired adaptation of Otoro Nigiri Sushi, we incorporate traditional Syrian spices such as sumac, cumin, and Aleppo pepper to infuse the dish with a distinct flavor profile. Additionally, we serve the sushi with a tangy pomegranate dipping sauce, which adds a refreshing twist to the traditional Japanese dish. We alse have the original recipe for Otoro nigiri sushi, so you can check it out.

• 200g (7 oz) Otoro (fatty tuna belly) 200g (7 oz) Otoro (fatty tuna belly)
• 1 cup (200g) sushi rice 1 cup (200g) sushi rice
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sugar 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sumac 1 teaspoon sumac
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon Aleppo pepper 1/2 teaspoon Aleppo pepper
• Fresh herbs (such as mint or cilantro), for garnish Fresh herbs (such as mint or cilantro), for garnish
• Pomegranate seeds, for garnish Pomegranate seeds, for garnish
• Pomegranate dipping sauce: Pomegranate dipping sauce:
• 1/2 cup pomegranate juice 1/2 cup pomegranate juice
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 30g, 5g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1.5g

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 the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until dissolved. Once the rice is cooked, transfer it 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.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, combine the sumac, cumin, and Aleppo pepper.
4. 4.
   Slice the Otoro into thin pieces, about 1/4 inch thick.
5. 5.
   To assemble the sushi, take a small portion of seasoned sushi rice and shape it into a rectangular mound using wet hands. Place a slice of Otoro on top of the rice.
6. 6.
   Sprinkle a pinch of the spice mixture over the Otoro.
7. 7.
   Garnish each sushi with fresh herbs and pomegranate seeds.
8. 8.
   For the pomegranate dipping sauce, combine the pomegranate juice, soy sauce, honey, and lemon juice in a small saucepan. Heat over medium heat until the sauce thickens slightly, about 5 minutes. Let it cool before serving.
9. 9.
   Serve the Syrian-inspired Otoro Nigiri Sushi with the pomegranate dipping sauce on the side.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Otoro — Ensure that the Otoro is fresh and of high quality. It should have a rich marbling and a buttery texture.

Tips & Tricks

• To enhance the flavor, lightly sear the Otoro with a blowtorch before placing it on the sushi rice.
• Experiment with different fresh herbs for garnish, such as basil or parsley, to add a unique twist to the dish.
• If you can't find Otoro, you can substitute it with other fatty fish such as salmon belly or yellowtail belly.

Serving advice

Serve the Syrian-inspired Otoro Nigiri Sushi as an appetizer or as part of a sushi platter. Arrange the sushi beautifully on a wooden sushi board or a decorative plate to enhance the visual appeal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Otoro Nigiri Sushi neatly on a platter, with the vibrant colors of the spices and fresh herbs contrasting against the pale pink Otoro and white sushi rice. Drizzle the pomegranate dipping sauce around the sushi for an artistic touch.