Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsAriake Sushi & RobataSalmon Nigiri Recipe

Salmon Nigiri Recipe

Time1h
Serves4

Fresh salmon on sushi rice

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Ingredients

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Sushi Rice

Method

Preparing Sushi Rice

  1. 1

    Rinse the Rice

    Place the sushi rice in a fine-mesh strainer and rinse under cold water until the water runs clear, about 2-3 minutes.

  2. 2

    Cook the Rice

    In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed sushi rice and 2.5 cups of water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed.

  3. 3

    Season the Rice

    Once cooked, remove the rice from heat and let it sit, covered, for 10 minutes. In a small bowl, mix together the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Gently fold this mixture into the warm rice using a wooden spoon or a rice paddle, being careful not to mash the grains.

  4. 4

    Cool the Rice

    Spread the seasoned rice onto a baking sheet to cool to room temperature. You can use a fan or a hand-held fan to help speed up the cooling process.

Preparing Salmon Nigiri

  1. 5

    Slice the Salmon

    Using a sharp knife, slice the fresh salmon fillet against the grain into thin pieces, about 1/4 inch thick.

  2. 6

    Form the Rice Balls

    Wet your hands with water to prevent sticking. Take a small amount of sushi rice (about 1-2 tablespoons) and form it into an oval-shaped ball.

  3. 7

    Assemble the Nigiri

    Place a slice of salmon over the formed rice ball, gently pressing it down so it adheres. Repeat this process for the remaining rice and salmon.

  4. 8

    Serve

    Arrange the salmon nigiri on a serving platter. Serve with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger on the side.

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