$5 Sushi Deal: Pay Less, Eat More!

$5 Sushi Deal: Pay Less, Eat More!

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Making the Paper Boat
3. Washing the Rice
4. Cooking the Rice
5. Making the Seasoned Rice Vinegar
6. Soy Brown Butter Mushroom Roll
7. Avocatsu Roll
8. Apple Relish Roll
9. Tempura Sweet Potato Roll
10. Glazed Spam Roll
11. Assembling the Sushi Boat
12. Does the Boat Float?
13. Conclusion

Introduction

In this article, we will embark on a culinary adventure to Create a sushi boat filled with four brand new and budget-friendly sushi rolls. With a budget of only five dollars per serving, we will explore the art of making delicious sushi without breaking the bank. Along the way, we will learn how to fold a paper boat, wash and cook rice, make seasoned rice vinegar, and create four mouthwatering sushi rolls: Soy Brown Butter Mushroom, Avocatsu, Apple Relish, and Tempura Sweet Potato. We will also find out if our homemade sushi boat can float in a body of water. So, let's set sail and dive into the world of affordable gourmet sushi rolls!

Making the Paper Boat

First things first, we need a boat to hold our sushi rolls. We will start by learning how to fold a paper boat. You can find a video tutorial in the description for step-by-step instructions on how to create a sturdy and functional paper boat. Once we have our boat ready, it's time to move on to the star of the Show - the sushi rolls.

Washing the Rice

Before we begin making sushi rice, it's crucial to wash the rice thoroughly. For this recipe, we will need two and a half cups or 535 grams of short-grain rice. Place the rice into a large mesh sieve and place it in a bowl. Fill the bowl with Water, covering the rice completely. Gently agitate the rice, drain the water, and repeat this process one to two more times until the water runs clear. Washing the rice helps remove excess starch, resulting in fluffier and more separated grains.

Cooking the Rice

Traditionally, a rice cooker is used to make perfect sushi rice. However, if you don't have a rice cooker, you can still achieve excellent results using a pot. For cooking the rice on the stovetop, use the same ratio of water as you would in a rice cooker. Bring the pot of rice and water to a boil on high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid, and cook for 12 minutes. After 12 minutes, turn off the heat and let the rice steam for an additional 10 minutes. While this method may not be Uncle Roger or Uncle Josh approved, it serves as a budget-friendly alternative.

Making the Seasoned Rice Vinegar

To give our sushi rice its signature flavor, we need to make seasoned rice vinegar, also known as sushi zoo. In a medium Sauce pot, combine three tablespoons or 38 grams of sugar, one tablespoon or 18 grams of kosher salt, and one cup of white distilled vinegar. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally until everything is dissolved and it becomes steamy hot. Traditionally, kombu (edible kelp) is steeped in the vinegar mixture, but to keep costs low, we will steep one sheet of nori in the mixture for about 10 minutes. After steeping, drain the nori, and your sushi zoo is ready.

Soy Brown Butter Mushroom Roll

Let's start rolling with our Soy Brown Butter Mushroom Roll. In a 12-inch pan, heat enough oil to coat the bottom over medium-high heat. Add two cubed portobello mushrooms and let them sear for 2-3 minutes, tossing occasionally until they are beautifully browned on all sides. Add two tablespoons or 24 grams of unsalted butter and let it cook for about 1-2 minutes, or until the butter begins to brown. Cut off the heat and add soy sauce to taste, giving the mushrooms a rich, savory flavor. Wrap the mushroom mixture in plastic wrap and set it aside. On a sushi mat, lay out a sheet of nori and spread a half cup of sushi rice evenly on top. Optionally, sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds. Carefully flip the nori, so the rice is facing down. In the lower third of the roll, add the soy brown butter mushroom and sliced avocado if desired. Roll up the sushi tightly using the sushi mat, forming a beautiful makimono. Cut the roll in half and then cut it into six to eight individual pieces. The Soy Brown Butter Mushroom Roll is now ready to be enjoyed.

Avocatsu Roll

Next up is the Avocatsu Roll, a vegetarian's dream. In a small container, combine three-quarters of a cup or 162 grams of mayonnaise and three tablespoons or 45 grams of sriracha to create a spicy mayo. Mix well and set it aside. In another small bowl, combine one finely diced green apple, one thinly sliced Thai chili, three tablespoons or 45 grams of white distilled vinegar, a quarter cup or 71 grams of soy sauce, the Juice of one whole lemon, and optionally, a Splash of mirin. Stir everything together to make an apple relish. For the avocado, cut one large avocado into quarters, peel each piece, and cut each quarter in half. Set up a breading station with one bowl of all-purpose flour, one bowl of beaten eggs combined with soy sauce, and one bowl of panko bread crumbs. Dip the avocado quarters into the flour, then the egg mixture, and coat them with panko bread crumbs. Fry the breaded avocados in vegetable oil preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Drain the fried avocados on a wire rack and season with salt. Now it's time to assemble the Avocatsu Roll. Lay a sheet of nori on the sushi mat, spread sushi rice evenly over it, and leave a quarter-inch lip at the top. In the lower third of the roll, add one to two fried avocado quarters, followed by a spoonful of apple relish. Roll it up tightly, cut the roll into six to eight pieces, and enjoy the mouthwatering Avocatsu Roll.

Apple Relish Roll

The Apple Relish Roll offers a refreshing combination of flavors. Lay a sheet of nori on the sushi mat, spread sushi rice evenly on it, and leave a quarter-inch lip at the top. In the lower third of the roll, add sliced apple, thinly sliced Thai chili, and a mix of white distilled vinegar, soy sauce, lemon juice, and optionally, a splash of mirin. Roll it up tightly, cut it into six to eight pieces, and savor the delightful Apple Relish Roll.

Tempura Sweet Potato Roll

Craving something crispy? Try the Tempura Sweet Potato Roll. Peel a large sweet potato, slice it into wedges, and Dust them with flour. Dip the sweet potato wedges in tempura batter made with all-purpose flour, baking powder, carbonated water, and eggs. Fry the battered sweet potato wedges in vegetable oil preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 2-3 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Drain the crispy sweet potatoes on a wire rack, season them with salt, and set them aside. On the sushi mat, place a sheet of nori, spread sushi rice evenly over it, and leave a quarter-inch lip at the top. In the lower third of the roll, add the tempura sweet potato, batons of fresh cucumber, and Thai basil leaves. Roll it up tightly, cut the roll into six to eight pieces, and enjoy the crunchy and flavorful Tempura Sweet Potato Roll.

Glazed Spam Roll

We can't forget the Glazed Spam Roll, a delicious Blend of sweet and savory. In a saucepot, combine light brown sugar, white distilled vinegar, sriracha, and soy sauce to make a simple glaze. Heat the glaze until the sugar dissolves completely. Brush the glaze onto a slice of spam, then grill the spam until it's nicely browned and glistening. Lay a sheet of nori on the sushi mat, spread sushi rice evenly on it, and leave a quarter-inch lip at the top. In the lower third of the roll, add a slice or two of the glazed spam. Optionally, add some pickled relish and cilantro for extra flavor. Roll it up tightly, cut the roll into six to eight pieces, and savor the mouthwatering Glazed Spam Roll.

Assembling the Sushi Boat

Now that we have prepared all four sushi rolls, it's time to assemble our sushi boat. Load up the boat with the rolls, arranging them in a visually pleasing manner. Our boat can serve around six people, making it an excellent dish for sharing. If desired, you can garnish the rolls with additional toppings, such as spicy mayo, pickled relish, or fresh herbs. The sushi boat is now ready to sail onto our taste buds.

Does the Boat Float?

With our sushi boat complete, there's one final test to assess its seaworthiness - does it float? Place the boat gently into a body of water and watch as it gracefully stays afloat. The joy of homemade sushi on a floating boat is undoubtedly a delight for both the eyes and the taste buds. However, be mindful of any leaks that may occur, and remember to enjoy the sushi boat responsibly. Bon voyage!

Conclusion

Creating a sushi boat filled with four brand new rolls on a budget of only five dollars per serving is a triumphant achievement. By embracing creativity and employing cost-saving techniques, we have managed to craft gourmet sushi at an affordable price. Each roll exemplifies a unique combination of flavors, textures, and colors, providing a delightful sensory experience. Whether it's the umami-rich Soy Brown Butter Mushroom Roll, the creamy and crispy Avocatsu Roll, the refreshing Apple Relish Roll, or the sweet and savory Glazed Spam Roll, there is something to tantalize every palate. Our homemade sushi boat offers a taste of culinary excellence without straining the wallet. So, Gather your friends and family, set sail on an unforgettable sushi adventure, and enjoy the flavors of the sea without leaving the comfort of your home.