Pairing: Sushi and sashimi

Sushi and sashimi are iconic Japanese dishes that showcase the freshness and quality of seafood. Sushi typically consists of vinegared rice paired with various ingredients, including raw fish, vegetables, and occasionally tropical fruits. Sashimi, on the other hand, features thinly sliced raw fish or seafood served without rice, highlighting the pure flavors and textures of the ingredients. Both dishes are often accompanied by soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger, enhancing their flavor profiles and providing a harmonious balance of taste.

Recipe

Ingredients

  1. Sushi Rice: Short-grain rice seasoned with vinegar, sugar, and salt; essential for making sushi rolls and providing a slightly tangy flavor.
  2. Fresh Fish/Seafood: Options include tuna, salmon, and yellowtail for sushi, while sashimi focuses on pure fish slices; the quality and freshness are crucial for flavor and safety.
  3. Nori (Seaweed): Used to wrap sushi rolls, adding umami and texture to the dish.
  4. Soy Sauce: A savory condiment for dipping, enhancing the overall flavor of sushi and sashimi.
  5. Wasabi: A spicy condiment that adds heat and complements the freshness of the fish.
  6. Pickled Ginger: Served on the side, it cleanses the palate between different types of sushi or sashimi.

Instructions

  1. Prepare Sushi Rice: Rinse 2 cups of sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Cook according to the package instructions. Once cooked, mix with 1/4 cup rice vinegar, 2 tablespoons sugar, and 1 teaspoon salt while the rice is still warm. Allow it to cool to room temperature.
  2. Select and Prepare Fish: Choose high-quality, sushi-grade fish such as salmon, tuna, or yellowtail. For sashimi, use a sharp knife to slice the fish against the grain into thin pieces, about 1/4 inch thick. For sushi, cut the fish into strips or cubes.
  3. Make Sushi Rolls: Place a sheet of nori on a bamboo mat, shiny side down. Wet your hands to prevent sticking, and spread a thin layer of sushi rice over the nori, leaving a 1-inch border at the top. Lay your choice of fish and additional fillings (like cucumber or avocado) in a line along the rice. Roll the sushi tightly from the bottom using the bamboo mat, pressing gently as you go. Seal the edge of the nori with a bit of water.
  4. Slice and Serve: Using a sharp, wet knife, slice the sushi roll into bite-sized pieces. For sashimi, arrange the fish slices neatly on a plate. Serve with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger on the side.

Serve With

Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio

Learn More About the Best Pairings

Sauvignon Blanc

A highly aromatic white wine grape variety known for its refreshing acidity and diverse flavor profile

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Pinot Grigio

Also known as Pinot Gris, is a versatile white wine made from grapes that are actually pinkish-grey in color.

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Samplers

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