Ice Cube Tray Sushi

Mouthwatering Sushi Bites: A Burst of Flavor in Every Cubic Bite

Delight your taste buds with these irresistibly delicious Sushi Bites. Whether you're a sushi enthusiast or just starting your culinary adventure with Japanese cuisine, this recipe is designed to impress with its simplicity and impact. These meticulously crafted bite-sized wonders are not just visually appealing, but they pack a flavorful punch that's sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Key to the success of this recipe is the choice of ingredients and simplicity of technique. Sushi or short-grain rice binds everything together with its natural stickiness. This recipe uses seasoned rice vinegar to impart that authentic sushi flavor while hinting at the delightful tang. The tender chicken provides a savory and hearty element, kissed with the creamy and tangy notes of yum yum sauce. A touch of sesame oil enhances the aromatic profile, and sesame seeds add both a nutty flavor and visual appeal.

Preparation is straightforward yet requires attention to detail. Pre-cooking the rice and allowing it to cool slightly helps achieve the perfect bite. Finely chopping the cucumber provides a refreshing crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft rice and tender chicken, while also maintaining the cool, fresh essence in each piece. A well-greased ice cube tray inverts effortlessly, shaping and compacting each sushi bite into perfect forms. Serve these delicacies with a side of reduced-sodium soy sauce for dipping, if desired.

Ingredients

• 1 cup sushi (or short grain) rice: Essential for creating the sticky foundation of your sushi bites.
• 1 ¼ cups water: Necessary for cooking the rice to perfection.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing the sweetness from the vinegar.
• 2 tablespoons seasoned rice vinegar: Adds a tangy kick to the rice.
• ½ seedless cucumber: Offers a crisp and fresh component to the bites.
• 8 oz chilled chicken tenders (or nuggets): Provides a savory and filling element.
• ⅓ cup yum yum sauce (or spicy mayonnaise): Contributes creaminess and a slight heat.
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Adds a deep, aromatic touch.
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds: Used for garnish, providing a nutty flavor and appealing look.
• Reduced-sodium soy sauce (optional for serving): A classic pairing for sushi.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Begin by cooking the rice. Follow the package instructions, typically requiring you to rinse the rice and cook it with 1 ¼ cups water and a teaspoon of kosher salt. Once cooked, stir in the seasoned rice vinegar. Allow the rice to chill for about 10 minutes or until it has cooled to the touch.
2. While the rice is cooling, peel and finely chop the cucumber, measuring out about 1 cup. At the same time, take the chilled chicken tenders or nuggets and chop them into small pieces, tossing them in the yum yum sauce for an even coating.
3. Prepare your ice cube trays by coating each cup with a hint of sesame oil. This prevents the sushi bites from sticking and adds a lovely flavor.
4. Spoon a heaping teaspoon of the cooled rice into each cup of the tray, pressing it firmly to create a solid base.
5. Layer evenly with the chopped cucumber and chicken mixture, pressing down to ensure they are compact.
6. Finish each bite with another heaping teaspoon of rice, pressing firmly. This ensures the ingredients are fully compacted for easy inversion.
7. Invert the trays onto your serving dish carefully, and the sushi bites should come out easily thanks to the sesame oil.
8. Sprinkle sesame seeds generously over each bite, pressing gently so they adhere.
9. Offer reduced-sodium soy sauce on the side for a dip if desired.

Tips for Troubleshooting if Something Goes Wrong with the Recipe

• Rice too dry? Add a tablespoon of water and reheat gently with steaming to prevent it from becoming mushy.
• Bites fall apart? Ensure the rice is well-flavored and sticky. Press more firmly when assembling the bites.
• Rice sticks to the mold? Use more sesame oil or line with a small piece of parchment paper.
• Sauce too spicy? Mix some mayonnaise in to mellow the sauce without losing too much flavor.

Ideas for Pairing with the Recipe

When it comes to pairing these delightful Sushi Bites, think fresh and complementary flavors:

• Side Dishes: A vibrant seaweed salad with sesame oil and ginger dressing, or pickled ginger for a spicy, sweet contrast.
• Drinks: Pair with a chilled sake for an authentic Japanese experience, or an aromatic green tea that cuts through the richness.
• Desserts or Garnishes: For dessert, match with green tea ice cream or mochi, which round out the meal without overshadowing the sushi.

How to Store Properly

• For refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain freshness.
• For freezing: Not recommended as freezing rice affects texture and may cause other ingredients to lose their vibrant flavors.
• If sushi does not include seafood, feel free to make ahead and store components separately, assembling shortly before serving.

FAQs

• Can I use brown rice instead of sushi rice?
  
  
• Are there vegetarian alternatives for chicken?
  
  
• What's a good alternative for yum yum sauce?
  
  
• Can these be made in silicone molds?
  
  

While possible, brown rice lacks the stickiness of sushi rice and might result in less cohesive bites.

Absolutely, swap the chicken with firm tofu or even a plant-based chicken substitute.

Try spicy mayo by mixing mayonnaise and sriracha, or a teriyaki glaze for a sweeter profile.

Yes, silicone molds can be great; they might allow easier removal and add an interesting visual twist to your bites.