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Nigiri Sushi

Nigiri sushi is a type of Japanese sushi consisting of a piece of raw fish or other seafood over a bed of vinegared rice. It is generally served with soy sauce and wasabi. Nigiri is a popular dish in sushi restaurants and is often the first sushi that many people try. The fish used in nigiri sushi can include salmon, tuna, mackerel, yellowtail, eel, shrimp, squid, octopus, and more.

Ingredients (2 Persons)

2 cups short grain sushi rice
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons sesame seeds
2 tablespoons mirin
1/2 pound sushi-grade salmon, thinly sliced

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the rice several times until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in a bowl of cold water for 30 minutes. Drain and transfer the rice to a medium saucepan.
Step 2

Add 2 cups of water and bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 12-15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
Step 3

In a small bowl, combine the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Heat in the microwave for 30 seconds, stirring until the sugar and salt have dissolved.
Step 4

When the rice is done, transfer it to a large bowl. Pour the vinegar mixture over the hot rice and mix gently with a wooden spoon. Let the rice cool to room temperature.
Step 5

Toast the sesame seeds in a small skillet over medium-low heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly. Add the mirin and cook for 1 minute more.
Step 6

To assemble the sushi, place a small handful of rice on a sheet of nori. Top with a slice of salmon and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Roll the nori tightly around the rice and salmon and cut into slices.