Low Sodium Eel Nigiri

Delight your taste buds with this irresistible Low Sodium Eel Nigiri, a healthier twist on the popular Japanese delicacy. Featuring tender, caramelized unagi fillets glazed with a flavorful blend of low sodium soy sauce, mirin, and sugar, this recipe pairs perfectly with the subtle tang of perfectly seasoned sushi rice. Carefully crafted to balance umami richness with reduced sodium content, this dish is ideal for those seeking a lighter yet authentic sushi experience. Whether adorned with a delicate strip of nori or served as-is, this nigiri offers a melt-in-your-mouth texture and vibrant flavors. Ready in under an hour and perfect for a gourmet dinner at home, this recipe is a must-try for sushi enthusiasts who prioritize both taste and mindful eating.

Nutriscore Rating: 74/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:50 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 200 grams unagi (freshwater eel) fillet
• 300 grams sushi rice
• 30 ml rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon low sodium soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon mirin
• 1 teaspoon wasabi paste
• 1 nori sheets (optional)
• 400 ml water

Directions

Step 1

Start by washing the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and ensures perfect rice grains.

Step 2

Add the washed rice and 400 ml of water to a rice cooker or pot. Cook according to the rice cooker's instructions or boil and simmer in the pot until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.

Step 3

While the rice is cooking, prepare the eel. Preheat your grill or broiler.

Step 4

Slice the unagi fillet into 4 equal pieces.

Step 5

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the low sodium soy sauce, mirin, and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely to create a glaze.

Step 6

Brush the glaze over the eel fillets and place under the grill or broiler. Cook for about 5 minutes or until the eel is cooked through and slightly caramelized.

Step 7

In a separate bowl, mix rice vinegar and sugar. Once the rice is done, fold the vinegar mixture gently into the rice with a spatula. Be gentle to avoid smashing the rice grains.

Step 8

Wet your hands with water to prevent sticking, and take about 20-25 grams of sushi rice to form a small ball in your hands. Shape it into an oblong mound.

Step 9

Spread a tiny amount of wasabi atop each rice mound if desired.

Step 10

Place a slice of grilled eel on each rice mound and gently press them together to ensure they adhere.

Step 11

Optionally, you can wrap a small strip of nori around the middle of the nigiri to help hold the eel on the rice.

Step 12

Serve immediately for the freshest taste, optionally with additional wasabi and low sodium soy sauce for dipping.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(987.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1007.9

Total Fat 27.5g	0%
Saturated Fat 6.2g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.2g
Cholesterol 296.5mg	0%
Sodium 925.8mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 121.3g	0%
Dietary Fiber 2.2g	0%
Total Sugars 21.3g
Protein 58.2g	0%

Vitamin D 1863.5IU	0%
Calcium 99.2mg	0%
Iron 3.3mg	0%
Potassium 775.8mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 25.6%

Protein: 24.1%

Carbs: 50.3%