Sushi with Fresh Tuna and Cucumber

Indulge in the fresh and vibrant flavors of homemade sushi featuring tender tuna and refreshing cucumber. This delightful recipe combines perfectly seasoned sushi rice with succulent, fresh tuna and crisp cucumber wrapped in a delicate nori sheet. Whether you're a seasoned sushi fan or a beginner wanting to try your hand at creating this Japanese delicacy at home, this recipe offers a comprehensive guide. The use of a bamboo mat ensures a neat roll, making it as satisfying to make as it is to eat. Served with wasabi, pickled ginger, and naturally brewed soy sauce, these sushi rolls present a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Perfect for a light lunch, an impressive appetizer, or a delightful dinner treat, this sushi recipe will transport your taste buds to a sushi bar in Japan. The preparation is as much about the journey as the result, offering a hands-on culinary experience. Enjoy this authentic sushi experience at the comfort of your home, while dazzling your friends and family with your culinary skills.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 150 g sushi rice
• 1 l water
• 1 sushi nori sheet

For the Filling:

• 150 g fresh tuna
• 1/4 long fresh cucumber

Spices/Sauces:

• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1/2 tsp sugar
• 1/2 tsp salt

For Serving:

• Wasabi paste
• Pickled ginger
• Sushi & sashimi soy sauce
• Wooden chopsticks

Preparation Time

Total Time: 60 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Rinse the sushi rice under cool running water until the water runs clear, then place it in a bowl.
2. Cover the rice with cold water and let it soak for 20 minutes. Drain and place the rice in a pot.
3. Add the 1 liter of water to the pot and bring to a boil.
4. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid, and cook until all the water is absorbed. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
5. Remove from heat and allow the rice to cool to room temperature.
6. In a separate bowl, mix rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Stir this mixture into the cooled rice.
7. Lay the nori sheet on a bamboo mat with the shiny side down. For easier rolling, cover the mat with plastic wrap.
8. Moisten your fingers and evenly spread the sushi rice over the nori, leaving a 2 cm border at the top.
9. Prepare the filling by slicing the fresh tuna into long strips and cutting the cucumber into long thin matchsticks.
10. Place the tuna and cucumber strips at the bottom edge of the rice.
11. Begin rolling the sushi by lifting the mat with your thumbs, while using your fingers to keep the filling in place, and roll away from you.
12. Press gently yet firmly to shape the roll into a square or cylindrical shape.
13. Use a very sharp knife to cut the sushi into equal pieces. Set aside the ends.
14. Arrange the sushi on a plate and serve it with naturally brewed soy sauce, wasabi paste, and pickled ginger.
15. Use wooden chopsticks for an authentic experience.
16. Clean your knife between cuts for neat slices.
17. Serve the sushi immediately for the best flavor.
18. Sushi rice can be made in a rice cooker for ease.
19. Fresh crisp cucumber balances the sushi's rich flavors, adding a refreshing crunch.
20. Enjoy your homemade sushi with friends or family for a mini culinary adventure.

Tips

• Substitute tuna with salmon for a delicious alternative.
• Use a sharp knife to prevent tearing the sushi rolls.
• Dampen your hands to prevent the rice from sticking when spreading.
• Refrigerate the sushi for about 5 minutes before cutting if it's too warm or soft.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 300 per serving
• Protein: 15g
• Fats: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 40g

Variations

• Use avocado for a creamy texture.
• Substitute regular soy sauce for gluten-free soy sauce for dietary needs.
• Try using other types of fish such as yellowtail or sea bream.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside a green seaweed salad for freshness.
• Pair with a cup of green tea for a traditional Japanese experience.
• Add a light miso soup as a starter or side dish.

Best Places

• Sushi Saito - A revered spot for exquisite sushi craftsmanship. Location: 1F, Ark Hills South Tower, Roppongi, Tokyo, Japan.
• Tetsuya's - Fusion of Japanese culinary techniques with Australian flavors. Location: 529 Kent Street, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
• Jiro Sushi - World-renowned for classic sushi excellence. Location: Ginza, Tokyo, Japan.
• Nobu - Famed for a unique blend of traditional and contemporary flavors. Location: 105 Hudson Street, New York, NY, USA.
• Sukiyabashi Jiro - Legendary sushi destination with unparalleled quality. Location: 4 Chome-2-15 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo, Japan.

Enjoy creating this simple yet elegant sushi roll at home, and transport your taste buds to these top global sushi spots!