Unleash Your Inner Sushi Chef: Mastering the Art of Making Eel Sushi

AvatarByErick Benitez

Sushi lovers rejoice, for we have a special treat in store for you today – we’re going to dive into the world of eel sushi. This delicacy may not be as mainstream as its seafood counterparts, but once you try it, you’ll be hooked (no pun intended). From its unique texture and flavor to the intricate process of making it, eel sushi is a culinary experience that is not to be missed. Whether you’re an avid sushi fan or just looking to try something new, our guide on how to make eel sushi will take your taste buds on a journey like never before. So let’s sharpen our knives and roll up our sleeves as we uncover the secrets of creating this delectable dish.

Eel sushi, also known as unagi sushi, is a popular dish in Japanese cuisine. It is made with grilled eel and rice, along with other ingredients such as avocado and cucumber. Eel sushi is loved for its savory and slightly sweet taste, making it a favorite among sushi lovers.

If you are a fan of sushi and want to learn how to make eel sushi at home, you have come to the right place. In this comprehensive guide, we will take you through the steps of making delicious eel sushi from scratch.

The History of Eel Sushi

Sushi has been around for centuries in Japan, but it wasn’t until the early 19th century that eel sushi became popular. In the city of Edo (now Tokyo), there was an abundance of freshwater eels in the rivers and canals, making it easily accessible for the locals.

Initially, eels were considered a cheap food option and were looked down upon by the upper class. However, with time they gained popularity among all classes due to their delicious taste and health benefits. It was believed that eating eels would give you strength and stamina.

Today, eel sushi is not only a staple dish in Japan but also enjoyed all around the world.

The Benefits of Eating Eels

Eels are not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. They are an excellent source of protein, vitamins A and B12, as well as omega-3 fatty acids. These nutrients help in improving heart health, boosting immunity and promoting brain function.

Moreover, eels are low in calories and fat compared to other types of meat such as beef or chicken. This makes them an ideal option for those trying to maintain a healthy diet.

Ingredients required for making Eel Sushi

To make delicious eel sushi at home, you will need the following ingredients:

1. Freshwater Eel

The star ingredient of eel sushi is freshwater eel, also known as unagi. You can either buy fresh or frozen eel from your local fish market or supermarket. If using frozen eel, make sure to thaw it properly before cooking.

2. Rice

Rice is a staple in Japanese cuisine and is an essential component of sushi. For eel sushi, it is recommended to use short-grain Japanese rice as it has the perfect stickiness and texture required for sushi.

3. Rice Vinegar

Rice vinegar is used to season the rice and give it a tangy flavor. You can find it in the international or Asian section of your local grocery store.

4. Seaweed Sheets (Nori)

Nori sheets are used to wrap around the sushi rolls. It adds earthy flavors and a crispy texture to the dish.

5. Avocado and Cucumber

Avocado and cucumber are commonly used in eel sushi rolls as they add a refreshing taste and provide additional nutrients.

The Process of Making Eel Sushi

Now that we have covered the history, benefits, and ingredients of eel sushi, let’s dive into how to make it at home.

< h3>1. Preparing the Rice

Start by washing 2 cups of short-grain Japanese rice until the water runs clear. Soak the washed rice in water for 30 minutes before draining it.

In a pot, add 2 cups of water and bring it to boil over high heat. Next, add the drained rice to the boiling water and give it a quick stir. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot and let the rice simmer for 18 minutes.

Once done, remove the pot from heat and let the rice sit covered for an additional 10 minutes.

2. Seasoning the Rice

In a small saucepan, mix ⅓ cup of rice vinegar, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Heat it over medium heat until the sugar and salt dissolve completely. Let the mixture cool down before adding it to the cooked rice.

Gently mix in the vinegar mixture to the cooked rice using a wooden spoon or rice paddle. Make sure not to over-mix as it can turn the rice mushy.

3. Preparing the Eel

If using frozen eel, thaw it properly before marinating. Make a marinade with ¼ cup of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of mirin (sweet rice wine), and 1 tablespoon of sugar.

Lay out your eel on a cutting board and brush both sides with the marinade. Preheat your broiler on high and place the eel on a baking sheet lined with foil. Broil for about 4-5 minutes on each side until fully cooked.

4. Assembling E

What is Eel Sushi?

Eel sushi, also known as unagi sushi, is a popular type of sushi that originated from Japan. It consists of a thin slice of grilled eel, called unagi, wrapped in seasoned rice and seaweed. Eel sushi is a favorite among sushi lovers because of its unique and rich flavor. The eel is marinated in a special sauce before grilling, giving it a caramelized and smoky taste that pairs perfectly with the slightly sweet rice.

The history of eel sushi can be traced back to the 17th century when it was first created as an affordable and easily accessible meal for the common people in Japanese society. Today, it has become one of the most beloved sushi varieties worldwide and has even inspired different variations such as dragon rolls and caterpillar rolls in Western countries.

The Health Benefits of Eel Sushi

Apart from being delicious and flavorful, eel sushi also offers several health benefits. Here are some reasons why you should include eel sushi in your diet:

1. High Nutritional Value
Eels are packed with essential nutrients such as protein, healthy fats, vitamins B12 and D, calcium, potassium, magnesium, and iron. The combination of these nutrients makes eels highly nutritious and beneficial for maintaining good health.

2. Rich Source of Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Eels are known to be an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids that play a crucial role in promoting heart health. These fatty acids help to reduce inflammation in the body, lower blood pressure, improve cholesterol levels, and prevent cardiovascular diseases.

3. Boosts Immune System
The vitamins present in eel meat help to strengthen the immune system by supporting white blood cell production. This makes your body better equipped to fight against infections and illnesses.

4. Supports Brain Health
Omega-3 fatty acids in eel meat also play a significant role in brain health by promoting the growth and development of brain cells. It can improve memory, concentration, and overall cognitive function.

5. Good for Bone health
Eel sushi is an excellent source of calcium which is essential for maintaining strong and healthy bones. It can prevent bone diseases like osteoporosis and improve bone density.

How to Make Eel Sushi

Making eel sushi may seem intimidating, but with the right ingredients and techniques, you can easily create a delicious batch at home. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make eel sushi:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
To make eel sushi, you will need unagi (grilled eel), seasoned rice, nori (seaweed sheets), wasabi paste or powder, pickled ginger slices, and soy sauce. You can find these ingredients at your local Asian grocery store or order them online.

Step 2: Cook the Rice
For quality sushi rice, use short-grain Japanese rice. Rinse the rice thoroughly until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Then, add the rice to a pot with water (1:1 ratio). Let it sit for 30 minutes before cooking. Once done, let it cool down before using it for making sushi.

Step 3: Grill the Eel
Cut the grilled eel into thin slices and place them on a preheated grill or pan for a few minutes until slightly charred.

Step 4: Layering
Cut your nori sheet into halves and lay one half on your bamboo mat or plastic film wrap. Moisten your hands with water and take about two tablespoons of cooked rice. Spread it evenly on the nori sheet leaving about an inch of space at one end.

Step 5: Add Fillings
Lay your grilled eel slices at the center of the rice-covered nori sheet. You can also add cucumber or avocado slices for added texture and flavor.

Step 6: Rolling
Using your bamboo mat or plastic wrap, start rolling from the end with the fillings, applying gentle pressure to shape it into a cylinder. Wet the inch of nori sheet left without rice to seal the roll.

Step 7: Cut and Serve
Once you have a tight roll, remove it from the bamboo mat or plastic wrap and place it on a cutting board. Moisten your knife with water and cut the roll into equal pieces. Serve with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger on the side.

Tips for Making Perfect Eel Sushi

– Use fresh ingredients to ensure the best flavor.
– Do not overcook the rice as it will affect the texture of your sushi.
– Make sure to wet your hands when handling rice to prevent it from sticking.
– When rolling, do not press too hard or you may risk breaking the nori sheet.
– Use tamari sauce instead of soy sauce if you have a gluten intolerance.
– You can also substitute unagi with other types of fish such as salmon or tuna.

In Conclusion

1. What is eel sushi?
Eel sushi, also known as unagi sushi, is a type of Japanese dish that consists of grilled freshwater eel (unagi) glazed with a sweetened soy-based sauce, served on top of seasoned sushi rice.

2. What ingredients do I need to make eel sushi?
To make eel sushi, you will need ingredients such as unagi fillets, short-grain white rice, rice vinegar, sugar, salt, nori sheets, Japanese mayonnaise, and bamboo rolling mat (makisu).

3. Do I need to prepare the unagi fillets myself or can I buy them pre-packaged?
You can buy pre-packaged unagi fillets from most Asian grocery stores or supermarkets. However, if you prefer to prepare them yourself, you can buy fresh eels and fillet them at home.

4. How do I season the rice for eel sushi?
To season the rice for eel sushi, mix cooked short-grain white rice with a mixture of rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Allow the mixture to cool before using it for your sushi rolls.

5. Can I use regular mayonnaise instead of Japanese mayonnaise in my eel sushi?
Yes, you can use regular mayonnaise instead of Japanese mayonnaise in your eel sushi if you cannot find the latter. However, Japanese mayonnaise has a slightly different flavor and texture that complement the other flavors in the dish better.

6. How should I cook the unagi fillets before making sushi rolls?
To cook unagi fillets for eel sushi rolls, lightly grill or broil them until they are tender but still have a slight firmness to them. Depending on their size and thickness, this usually takes around 5-7 minutes per side. Make sure to baste the fillets with the sauce while cooking to enhance their flavor.

In conclusion, making eel sushi may seem like a daunting task, but with these step-by-step instructions and tips, it can be easily achieved. From selecting the freshest eel to properly preparing and seasoning it, each step is crucial in creating a delicious and authentic eel sushi dish. Additionally, experimenting with different types of eel and seasoning techniques can add variety and creativity to the final product. It is also important to note that proper food safety practices should always be followed when handling raw fish.

Apart from the technical aspects, it is worth noting the cultural significance of eel sushi. This delicacy has been a staple in Japanese cuisine for centuries and mastering its preparation not only allows one to enjoy it at home but also pays homage to its rich history.

Lastly, making eel sushi requires patience, practice, and attention to detail. It is not just about assembling ingredients but about understanding the nuances of flavors and textures that make this dish truly special. Whether as an appetizer or main course, homemade eel sushi is sure to impress your guests and taste buds alike.

In summary, while making eel sushi may require some effort, the end result is well worth it. By following these steps and incorporating your own personal touch, you can create a delicious sushi dish

Author Profile

Erick Benitez
Erick Benitez
In 2003, the Coast Sushi Bar was founded, quickly becoming a beloved fixture in its trendy neighborhood, appreciated for its exceptional sushi and vibrant BYOB atmosphere.

The chefs at Coast have developed a mastery in blending subtle yet intricate flavors, establishing a reputation for pioneering innovative New-Japanese cuisine with only the finest global ingredients.

Building on decades of culinary success, the founder launched a new endeavor in 2024—a blog focused on Japanese snacks. This blog marks a significant shift from restaurateur to food blogger, motivated by a desire to share comprehensive insights into Japanese culinary arts and snack culture. The content covers traditional snacks, the evolution of snack culture in Japan, and the global influence and adaptation of these snacks.

Each blog post reflects the founder's commitment to quality and attention to detail, mirroring the standards of Coast Sushi Bar.

Aimed at both aficionados and novices of Japanese cuisine, the blog serves as a resource for deepening readers’ knowledge and appreciation of Japan's rich and diverse food culture.