Mackerel Cheese Sushi: Zero Fishy Taste, Kid-Approved Recipe
A Delectable ‘Mackerel Cheese Sushi’ Recipe Featuring Fresh Norwegian Mackerel and Generous Cheese
This recipe was specially crafted for those who find mackerel difficult to enjoy due to its distinctive fishy odor. By braising it in a special soy sauce made with lemon and ginger, we’ve perfectly eliminated any fishiness while enhancing its rich flavor. ‘Mackerel Cheese Sushi’ boasts a delightful sweet, savory, and nutty taste that everyone, especially children, will love. It’s perfect for a satisfying meal or for impressing guests on special occasions.
Main Ingredients
- 1/2 Norwegian Mackerel Fillet
- 2 slices Cheddar Cheese
- 30g Fresh Microgreens (e.g., radish sprouts)
- 1 sheet Dried Seaweed (Nori)
- 1 bowl Cooked Sushi Rice
- 1 part All-Purpose Flour (for coating)
- 1 part Cornstarch (for coating)
- 1 Pickled Spicy Pepper (optional)
Mackerel Braising Sauce
- 1 Tbsp Soy Sauce
- 1 Tbsp Oligosaccharide (or honey)
- 1/2 Tbsp Lemon Juice
- 1/2 tsp Grated Ginger
Sushi Vinegar (Sushi-zu)
- 1/2 Tbsp Lemon Juice
- 1 pinch Salt
- 1 Tbsp Soy Sauce
- 1 Tbsp Oligosaccharide (or honey)
- 1/2 Tbsp Lemon Juice
- 1/2 tsp Grated Ginger
Sushi Vinegar (Sushi-zu)
- 1/2 Tbsp Lemon Juice
- 1 pinch Salt
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, let’s gather all the necessary ingredients to prepare these delicious Mackerel Cheese Sushi rolls. For the main ingredients, you’ll need half a fillet of fresh Norwegian mackerel, two slices of cheddar cheese, about 30g of fresh microgreens, one sheet of dried seaweed (nori), and one bowl of warm, cooked sushi rice. For the coating, mix all-purpose flour and cornstarch in a 1:1 ratio. If you’d like a touch of spice, finely chop one pickled spicy pepper. For the special braising sauce, combine 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of oligosaccharide, 1/2 tablespoon of lemon juice, and 1/2 teaspoon of grated ginger. Lastly, for the sushi vinegar, prepare 1/2 tablespoon of lemon juice and a pinch of salt.
Step 2
For this recipe, we’ve used ‘#NorwegianMackerel’. Mackerel bearing the ‘Seafood from Norway’ mark is sourced from the cold, clean waters of Norway, ensuring freshness and abundant nutrition. It’s particularly rich in protein, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids, and mackerel caught in the autumn season is known for its juicy texture and rich flavor. Even if purchased frozen, it can be cooked directly without thawing. It’s best to remove the thin, transparent membrane from the skin of the mackerel for a cleaner taste.
Step 3
Cut the prepared mackerel into bite-sized pieces, approximately 2.5 cm in width. This size is perfect for both adults and children to enjoy in a single bite.
Step 4
To enhance the mackerel’s freshness and effectively remove any fishy odor, sprinkle the cut mackerel pieces with lemon juice. The citrusy brightness of the lemon helps neutralize any unwanted smells.
Step 5
Let’s prepare the coating. Mix all-purpose flour and cornstarch in a 1:1 ratio. Using only cornstarch can make the coating too hard and difficult to eat, so mixing it with flour results in a crispy yet tender texture. Carefully coat each piece of mackerel, ensuring an even layer of the flour mixture.
Step 6
Heat a generous amount of cooking oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Carefully place the coated mackerel pieces into the hot oil and pan-fry them until golden brown on both sides. Be mindful to cook them through while keeping the outside crispy and the inside moist.
Step 7
Now, let’s make the delicious sauce to braise the mackerel. In a small pot, combine 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of oligosaccharide, 1/2 tablespoon of lemon juice, and 1/2 teaspoon of grated ginger. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over low heat. Once it starts to bubble, it’s ready for braising.
Step 8
Add the golden-brown pan-fried mackerel to the simmering sauce and braise it quickly. Toss the mackerel gently to ensure it’s evenly coated with the sauce. Avoid over-braising, as it can make the sauce too dark and excessively salty. The goal is to braise until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the mackerel beautifully.
Step 9
It’s time to prepare the sushi rice. Add the prepared sushi vinegar (1/2 Tbsp lemon juice, 1 pinch salt) to the warm cooked rice. Using a rice paddle, gently mix the rice to avoid crushing the grains, resulting in glossy sushi rice. The sweet and sour flavor will enhance the rice’s taste.
Step 10
Now, let’s assemble the sushi. Using a sushi mold or your hands, shape the rice into bite-sized portions and arrange them neatly on a plate. Place a slice of cheddar cheese, cut to a similar size as the mackerel pieces, on top of each rice ball. You can add a tiny dab of wasabi underneath the cheese for an extra kick of flavor, but if serving to children, omit it or use a very small amount.
Step 11
For an added layer of flavor to your Mackerel Cheese Sushi, consider sprinkling some finely chopped pickled spicy pepper over the rice. The crunchy texture and spicy notes will cut through any richness and balance the overall taste. If you’re serving this to young children, it’s best to skip this step.
Step 12
Next, artfully arrange the fresh microgreens on top of the rice, followed by the braised mackerel pieces. It will look just like an appetizing unagi (eel) sushi!
Step 13
Finally, wrap a strip of dried seaweed (nori) around the sushi to hold everything together, and your ‘Mackerel Cheese Sushi’ is complete! Isn’t it wonderfully simple and quick to make?
Step 14
Ta-da! Your Norwegian Mackerel Cheese Sushi is ready. It’s incredibly easy to make, yet its beautiful presentation makes it a dish that children and adults alike will adore. Surprise your loved ones by making this special treat for them!
Step 15
This Mackerel Cheese Sushi is flavored with lemon and ginger, completely eliminating any fishy taste. This means even those who usually shy away from mackerel can enjoy it without hesitation. The slightly peppery bite of the microgreens complements the rich flavors of the mackerel and cheese, providing a balanced and refreshing element. Adding extra wasabi is a great option for those who enjoy more spice, and the crunchy pickled pepper hidden within the rice adds delightful texture and enhances the overall taste.
Step 16
While it might be a generous portion for a single bite, it’s truly a bite that fills you with happiness. The tender mackerel, reminiscent of soft unagi, combined with the creamy cheddar cheese, creates an explosion of flavor in your mouth. The sweet and savory notes, along with the nutty cheese and the subtle aroma of lemon and ginger, offer a truly captivating taste experience. Let your palate be refreshed by these delightful aromas.
Step 17
Why not create this simple yet nutritious Mackerel Cheese Sushi for your beloved family? Imagine their happy smiles as they enjoy your homemade creation! You can find more recipes and information via the links below. ★Blog Recipe Post: https://blog.naver.com/kysskku/222569909238 ★Instagram Recipe Post: https://www.instagram.com/p/CWVpvievSCx/ ★Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/younsook.kim.925/posts/2079438132203663 ★Twitter: https://twitter.com/kysskku/status/1463317682091008006
