Nigiri-Style Baked Salmon Sushi with Fresh Uni

Nigiri-style sushi is not a complex dish, however, precision is the key to blowing your guests away, from preparing the rice, to slicing the fish, each step required patience and care. In the recipe below, you'll find step-by-step instructions, including the perfect, yet unashamedly easy, sushi rice preparation, to crafting nigiri-style Baked Salmon Sushi adorned with the rich, creamy notes of uni.

The Perfect Sushi Rice

Ingredients

1. 2 cups sushi rice
2. 1/4 packed of Tamanoi Sushi No Ko (35g)

Steps

1. Rinse sushi rice until the water runs clear.
2. Cook rice following package instructions.
3. In a large bowl, fold the Tamanoi Sushi No Ko into the warm rice.
4. Allow the rice to cool to room temperature.

Baking Succulent Salmon

Ingredients

1. 4 fresh salmon fillets
2. Salt to taste
3. Pepper to taste
4. 2 tablespoons olive oil

Method

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet.
3. Season with salt and pepper, drizzle with olive oil.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until salmon flakes easily.
5. Allow the salmon to cool slightly before slicing.

Crafting Nigiri-Style Baked Salmon Sushi

Ingredients

1. Sushi rice
2. Baked salmon slices
3. Uni (sea urchin)
4. Soy sauce
5. Wasabi
6. Pickled ginger

Method

1. With damp hands, shape bite-sized portions of sushi rice into oblong shapes.
2. Top each rice mound with a slice of baked salmon.
3. Gently place a small amount of uni atop the salmon.
4. Mold the ingredients together gently.
5. Serve with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger.

FAQs: Unveiling the Secrets

1. Can I use frozen uni for this recipe?

   While fresh uni is ideal (and very expensive), high-quality super frozen uni is an amazing alternative and a much more affordable option (available from Riviera Seafood Club). Ensure proper thawing before use.

2. Can I substitute salmon with another fish?

   Absolutely, but choose a mild-flavored fish (such as hon-hamachi) to complement the uni's richness.

3. Is it necessary to use a bamboo mat for rolling?

   For nigiri-style sushi, no mat is required. Hand-molding ensures the perfect bite-sized shape.

Elevating Your Culinary Experience

Presentation Mastery

Elevate your culinary presentation by arranging these nigiri-style delights artfully. The visual appeal enhances the overall dining experience.

Wine Pairing

Complement the dish with a crisp, chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio to balance the richness of uni and salmon.