Inari Zushi

Not what people usually think of when they hear sushi. These are pouches made of fried tofu, that are stuffed with sushi rice. Along with the nori (black seaweed) sushi rolls, this is a cheap and popular type of sushi. From shinkatei hyakkajiten vol. 1, kodan-sha, 1967. Aburage is fried slices of tofu that can be bought in stores that sell japanese food. They are often sold 2 pieces to a package, but are also available in japan in a form that has already been opened into pouches for this sushi. For this recipe, 20 pieces, or 40 half pieces, are necessary.

Steps

Cut the aburage in half horizontally , and carefully separate the sides of the cut section with your fingers to form a pouch.

To remove excess oil , place the aburage into a large heat-proof bowl in the sink and pour about 1 to 2 liters of boiling water over them , stirring to expose all pieces.

Drain into a colander , rinse with cold water and gently squeeze out the water.

Combine the sugar , soy sauce and water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.

Add the aburage and cook over medium heat , stirring from time to time , until well flavored.

Remove from heat and let cool.

If using , toast the sesame seeds in a dry frying pan , and mix into the sushi rice.

Gently squeeze out the liquid from a piece of aburage.

Scoop up a portion of rice about the size of an egg , in one hand , and stuff it into the aburage pouch.

Fold over the cut ends , press lightly to shape , and place cut side down on a serving dish.

Garnish with pickled ginger.

Ingredients

sushi rice, sesame seeds, aburage, sugar, soy sauce, water, pickled ginger