Delicate Homemade Salmon Nigiri
Delicate Homemade Salmon Nigiri
The Easiest Way to Make Delicious Salmon Nigiri at Home
Salmon nigiri can often be quite pricey when you buy it from a restaurant. Making it yourself with fresh salmon allows you to enjoy a generous portion at a great value. This recipe breaks down how to create delicious, restaurant-quality salmon nigiri right in your own kitchen. It’s easier than you think!
Main Ingredients- 2 bowls cooked rice (warm)
- 312g fresh salmon fillet
- A little fresh wasabi (to taste)
Sushi Rice Seasoning (Vinegar Mixture)- 3 Tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 Tbsp sugar
- 0.5 Tbsp salt
Special Salmon Nigiri Sauce- 4 Tbsp mayonnaise
- 2 Tbsp horseradish sauce
- 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
- A pinch of black pepper
- 0.5 Tbsp sugar
- 1 Tbsp capers (finely chopped)
- 1/2 onion (thinly sliced)
- 3 Tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 Tbsp sugar
- 0.5 Tbsp salt
Special Salmon Nigiri Sauce- 4 Tbsp mayonnaise
- 2 Tbsp horseradish sauce
- 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
- A pinch of black pepper
- 0.5 Tbsp sugar
- 1 Tbsp capers (finely chopped)
- 1/2 onion (thinly sliced)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, gently rinse the fresh salmon under cold running water to remove any surface blood. Pat it thoroughly dry with paper towels. Ensuring the salmon is well-drained is key to preventing a fishy odor and achieving a clean taste.
Step 2
Slice the prepared salmon into bite-sized pieces, approximately 1cm thick, suitable for nigiri. Slicing at a slight angle can create a larger surface area, making each piece look more appealing.
Step 3
Thinly slice the onion into julienne strips. Soak them in cold water for about 10 minutes to remove the sharp pungency, then drain them completely. This step adds a refreshing crunch and clean flavor.
Step 4
Prepare about 2 bowls of warm, cooked rice. In a bowl, combine the rice with 3 Tbsp rice vinegar, 2 Tbsp sugar, and 0.5 Tbsp salt. Gently mix with a rice paddle, being careful not to mash the grains, to season the sushi rice. Allow the rice to cool slightly before mixing to prevent it from becoming too mushy.
Step 5
In a small bowl, whisk together 4 Tbsp mayonnaise, 2 Tbsp horseradish sauce, 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice, 0.5 Tbsp sugar, and 1 Tbsp finely chopped capers, along with a pinch of black pepper, to create the sauce. Drain the sliced onions and add them to the sauce, mixing well to combine.
Step 6
Take a portion of the seasoned sushi rice and shape it into an oval or oblong mound in your palm. Apply a small amount of fresh wasabi to the top of the rice, adjusting the quantity to your preference. A thin layer of wasabi enhances the salmon’s flavor without overpowering it.
Step 7
Finally, place a slice of the prepared salmon on top of the rice to complete your delicious homemade salmon nigiri! For a more complete meal, consider serving it with pickled ginger (gari), pickled daikon radish (takuan), or a side of hot udon noodles.
