Description
Crispy Sushi Rice Squares deliver a playful fusion of Japanese and modern culinary techniques. Crunchy exterior meets creamy inner layers, promising a delightful texture adventure that will spark conversation at any gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups (375 ml) dry sushi rice, rinsed until water is clear
- 2 cups (480 ml) water
Rice Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons (45 ml) rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) granulated sugar
Flavor Enhancer:
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) toasted sesame oil
Instructions
- Meticulously rinse short-grain rice under cool running water 4-5 times, ensuring the water becomes crystal clear, which removes excess starch and prevents clumping.
- Cook the rice using either a rice cooker or stovetop method, following precise water-to-rice ratio for optimal texture and consistency.
- Craft a delicate seasoning blend by whisking together kosher salt, rice vinegar, granulated sugar, and fragrant sesame oil in a small mixing bowl until sugar completely dissolves.
- Gently fold the seasoning mixture into the warm cooked rice, ensuring even distribution and allowing flavors to meld thoroughly.
- Line a small square baking tray with plastic wrap, then carefully spread the seasoned rice into a uniform 1/2-inch thick layer, using gentle pressure to create a compact block.
- Refrigerate the rice block for a minimum of 3 hours or preferably overnight, which helps the rice firm up and makes cutting and frying easier.
- Once chilled, remove the rice block and slice into uniform bite-sized squares using a sharp knife that has been lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
- Heat a thin layer of vegetable oil (approximately 1/4 inch or 6 millimeters deep) in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking.
- Carefully place rice squares into the hot oil, frying until each side develops a golden-brown, crispy exterior, approximately 2-3 minutes per side.
- Transfer the fried rice squares to a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil and maintain crispiness, allowing them to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Perfect rice preparation requires multiple rinses to remove excess starch, ensuring a clean and fluffy texture.
- Precise seasoning blend transforms plain rice into a delectable base with balanced sweet, tangy, and nutty flavors.
- Chilling the rice helps it firm up, making it easier to handle and achieve an incredibly crispy exterior when fried.
- Use a sharp knife to cut uniform squares for consistent cooking and an appealing presentation.
- High heat and thin oil layer are crucial for creating a golden, crispy crust without making the rice greasy.
- Let the fried rice squares rest on a wire rack to maintain crunchiness and prevent sogginess.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Snacks, Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Japanese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 215 kcal
- Sugar: 3.5 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 2.5 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.1 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 44 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg