Description
Nobu Crispy Rice is a delicious Japanese-inspired dish featuring perfectly cooked sushi rice mixed with rice vinegar and sugar, then chilled and fried to golden perfection. The result is crispy on the outside, tender on the inside rice squares or rounds, ideal as a tasty appetizer or snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Rice Preparation
- 1 1/4 cup sushi rice (short grain)
- 1 2/3 cup water
- Pinch of salt
- Kombu strip (optional)
Flavoring
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1/2 tbsp sugar
Coating & Frying
- 2 tbsp potato starch
- Vegetable oil (for frying, about 1/2 inch depth)
Instructions
- Cook Rice: Rinse the sushi rice until water runs clear. Add the rice, water, a pinch of salt, and an optional kombu strip to a rice cooker and cook the rice according to the cooker’s instructions until tender.
- Mix Flavorings: In a small bowl, combine the rice vinegar and sugar until the sugar dissolves. Transfer the cooked rice into a large bowl, add the rice vinegar mixture and potato starch, and mix thoroughly to coat the rice evenly.
- Shape and Chill the Rice: Cover a baking sheet or container with plastic wrap. Spread the rice evenly over the plastic wrap and press it down firmly to about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thickness depending on preference. Cover the rice with plastic wrap, place another baking sheet on top with some cans or weights to press down, then refrigerate for 4 to 8 hours. After chilling, place the rice in the freezer for 30 minutes to firm up.
- Cut the Rice: Remove the pressed rice from the container and cut it into rounds or squares about 2 inches each, yielding approximately 12 to 16 pieces depending on size.
- Fry the Rice: Pour vegetable oil into a frying pan to about 1/2 inch depth and heat over medium-high heat until hot. Fry the rice pieces for 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden and crispy. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels before serving.
Notes
- For authentic flavor, use short grain sushi rice.
- Kombu adds umami but can be omitted.
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve crispiness and prevent sticking.
- The chilling step is crucial for firming up the rice to hold shape when frying.
- You can serve with toppings like spicy mayo, tuna tartare, or soy sauce for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Japanese
Keywords: Nobu Crispy Rice, sushi rice, Japanese appetizer, crispy rice, fried rice appetizer
