What Is Deep Fried Sushi? – The Latest Culinary Craze Taking The Internet By Storm!

Deep-fried sushi is a unique culinary creation that combines the traditional flavors of Japanese sushi with the crispy indulgence of deep-frying. It is a type of sushi roll that is coated in a batter or tempura mix and then deep-fried until golden brown. The result is a crispy exterior that gives way to a tender and flavorful interior, offering a delightful contrast of textures.

Origins of Deep Fried Sushi

The origins of deep-fried sushi can be traced back to the early 20th century in Japan. It is believed to have been first created by street vendors as a way to make sushi more portable and appealing to a wider audience. Over the years, it has become a popular dish in both Japan and around the world, enjoyed by sushi enthusiasts and foodies alike.

Types of Deep Fried Sushi

There are various types of deep-fried sushi, each offering its own unique flavor profile and appearance. Some of the most common include:

• Tempura Sushi: The sushi roll is coated in a tempura batter made from flour, water, and eggs, and then deep-fried. This results in a light and crispy exterior.
• Panko Sushi: The sushi roll is coated in panko breadcrumbs, which are larger and flakier than traditional breadcrumbs. This creates a more substantial and crunchy exterior.
• Crispy Sushi: The sushi roll is coated in a combination of tempura batter and panko breadcrumbs, resulting in a crispy and flavorful exterior.
• Dynamite Roll: A popular deep-fried sushi roll that typically includes tuna, salmon, yellowtail, and avocado, coated in tempura batter and deep-fried.
• Spider Roll: Another popular deep-fried sushi roll that features soft-shell crab, avocado, cucumber, and mayonnaise, coated in tempura batter and deep-fried.

Ingredients of Deep Fried Sushi

The ingredients used in deep-fried sushi vary depending on the type of sushi roll. However, some common ingredients include:

• Sushi Rice: Short-grain Japanese rice that is seasoned with rice vinegar, sugar, and salt.
• Nori: Dried seaweed sheets that are used to wrap the sushi roll.
• Fish or Seafood: Raw or cooked fish or seafood, such as tuna, salmon, shrimp, or crab.
• Vegetables: Fresh vegetables, such as cucumber, avocado, and carrots.
• Tempura Batter or Panko Breadcrumbs: Used to coat the sushi roll before deep-frying.
• Sauce: Typically soy sauce or a combination of soy sauce, mayonnaise, and sriracha.

How to Make Deep Fried Sushi

Making deep-fried sushi may seem intimidating, but it is a relatively simple process with the right ingredients and techniques. Here is a general guide on how to make deep-fried sushi:

1. Prepare the Sushi Rice: Cook the sushi rice according to the package instructions. Once cooked, let it cool slightly and season it with rice vinegar, sugar, and salt.
2. Prepare the Sushi Roll: Lay out a sheet of nori on a bamboo rolling mat. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice over the nori, leaving about an inch of space at the top.
3. Add the Fillings: Arrange your desired fillings on top of the sushi rice, leaving about an inch of space on the sides.
4. Roll the Sushi: Using the bamboo mat as a guide, roll the nori up tightly, starting from the bottom and ending with the top edge of the nori.
5. Cut the Sushi Roll: Use a sharp knife to cut the sushi roll into bite-sized pieces.
6. Coat the Sushi Roll: Dip the sushi pieces into the tempura batter or spread them with panko breadcrumbs.
7. Deep-Fry the Sushi: Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350-375°F (175-190°C). Carefully drop the coated sushi pieces into the hot oil and fry until golden brown and crispy.
8. Drain and Serve: Remove the deep-fried sushi pieces from the oil and drain them on paper towels. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

Benefits of Deep Fried Sushi

Deep-fried sushi offers several benefits, including:

• Crispy and Flavorful: The deep-frying process creates a crispy exterior that adds an extra layer of flavor and texture to the sushi.
• Versatile: Deep-fried sushi can be made with a variety of ingredients, allowing for endless customization options.
• Portable: Deep-fried sushi is a convenient and portable food that can be enjoyed on the go.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Deep-fried sushi is a crowd-pleasing dish that is sure to impress your guests at parties or gatherings.

Tips for Making the Perfect Deep Fried Sushi

Here are a few tips to help you make the perfect deep-fried sushi:

• Use fresh ingredients: The quality of your sushi will depend on the quality of the ingredients you use.
• Season the sushi rice properly: The sushi rice is the foundation of your sushi, so make sure to season it correctly with rice vinegar, sugar, and salt.
• Roll the sushi tightly: A tightly rolled sushi will hold together better when deep-fried.
• Coat the sushi evenly: Make sure the sushi pieces are evenly coated with the tempura batter or panko breadcrumbs to ensure even cooking.
• Fry at the right temperature: The oil should be hot enough to fry the sushi quickly and evenly, but not so hot that it burns the sushi.
• Don’t overcrowd the fryer: Overcrowding the fryer will cause the oil temperature to drop and the sushi to become soggy.

The Bottom Line

Deep-fried sushi is a delicious and versatile culinary creation that combines the flavors of traditional sushi with the crispy indulgence of deep-frying. Whether you are a sushi enthusiast or a foodie looking for a new culinary experience, deep-fried sushi is sure to satisfy your taste buds. So, next time you are craving sushi, give this unique and satisfying variation a try.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the difference between tempura and panko sushi?
A: Tempura sushi is coated in a tempura batter made from flour, water, and eggs, while panko sushi is coated in panko breadcrumbs. Tempura batter results in a light and crispy exterior, while panko breadcrumbs create a more substantial and crunchy exterior.

Q: Can I make deep-fried sushi with brown rice?
A: Yes, you can use brown rice to make deep-fried sushi. However, brown rice is less sticky than white rice, so you may need to add a little more rice vinegar to help it hold together.

Q: Can I freeze deep-fried sushi?
A: Yes, you can freeze deep-fried sushi. Let the sushi cool completely before freezing it in an airtight container. When ready to eat, thaw the sushi in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.