Tutorial 13.3 Comprehensive Guide to Making Nigiri Sushi

I. Preparation

A. Workstation Setup

1. Warm sushi rice

2. Water for keeping hands moist

3. Wasabi

4. Clean damp towel

II. Shaping the Rice Ball

A. Technique

1. Aim for thumb-sized rice balls

2. Keep hands moist but not overly wet

3. Practice making rice balls ahead of time

B. Key Points

1. Learn to properly wet your hands

2. Develop a sense of how much rice to use

3. Apply the right amount of pressure (avoid over-compressing)

III. Assembling the Nigiri

A. Basic Steps

1. Spread small amount of wasabi on bottom of fish

2. Place rice over wasabi

3. Shape into rectangle with thumb and finger

4. Flip over and cup in one hand

5. Use index and middle finger to gently press and shape

6. Rotate and repeat, pressing softly on sides

B. Counting System Technique

• Develop a personal counting system for consistency

• Example: 12-count system for shaping and molding

IV. Variations and Special Cases

A. Non-molded Items

1. Set rice ball first

2. Lay item over rice (e.g., raw scallop, asparagus, avocado)

B. Using Nori Bands

• For items that can't be shaped (e.g., shiitake mushroom, imitation crab, cooked eel)

V. Plating and Presentation

A. Traditional Approach

• Arrange nigiri from raw to cooked

• Progress from subtle to complex flavors

B. Home Plating

• Create your own design for parties or casual settings

VI. Tips for Beginners

1. Practice with shrimp nigiri first (more cost-effective)

2. Use gloves if having trouble with rice sticking to hands

3. Develop your own unique method and signature style

4. Focus on good contact between fish and rice

VII. Advanced Concepts

1. Creating air pockets in rice balls

2. Variations in shaping techniques

3. Balancing palate progression in omakase courses

Remember, mastering nigiri-making takes time and practice. Each chef develops their own unique style, so don't be discouraged if your nigiri looks different from others. The key is to create pieces that hold together well and present beautifully. Start with simpler ingredients and progress to more expensive seafood as your skills improve.