How to Make Sea Urchin Sushi with Uni Butter: A Gourmet Step-by-Step Guide

November 14, 2024

Sea Urchin Sushi with Uni Butter: Recipe

Sea urchin, or "uni," is a true delicacy known for its creamy, rich, and slightly sweet flavor, making it a sought-after ingredient in sushi. Paired with uni butter, this sushi dish takes on a new level of luxury, blending the smooth texture of butter with the briny taste of fresh sea urchin. This recipe is perfect for those looking to create a restaurant-quality sushi experience at home. Follow along with our step-by-step guide, and be sure to check out more gourmet seafood tips on our Global Seafoods YouTube Channel.

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Why Sea Urchin Sushi with Uni Butter?

Uni butter adds a rich, umami-filled creaminess that enhances the natural flavors of the sea urchin, making the sushi even more luxurious and satisfying. The combination of uni butter with fresh sea urchin makes for a sushi experience that is indulgent and unforgettable.

For premium sea urchin and other gourmet seafood, visit Global Seafoods.

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Ingredients You’ll Need for Uni Butter Sea Urchin Sushi

Using the highest quality ingredients is essential for this dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Fresh Sea Urchin (Uni): Approximately 2-3 pieces per sushi serving. Look for a bright orange or yellow hue with a clean ocean scent.
• Sushi Rice: High-quality short-grain rice is best for sushi, seasoned with rice vinegar, sugar, and salt.
• Nori Sheets: Fresh, crisp seaweed sheets for wrapping the sushi.
• Unsalted Butter: Softened, high-quality butter for creating uni butter.
• Soy Sauce and Wasabi: For added flavor and traditional dipping.
• Garnishes: Microgreens, thinly sliced cucumber, or lemon zest for a touch of brightness.

For sustainably sourced sea urchin, check out our Sea Urchin Collection.

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Step-by-Step Guide to Making Uni Butter

Uni butter is a luxurious spread made from blending sea urchin with butter. It adds richness and deepens the umami flavor of the dish.

Ingredients:

• 2-3 pieces of fresh uni
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• A pinch of sea salt

Instructions:

1. Blend the Uni and Butter: Using a fork, blend the uni with the softened butter until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency.
2. Season: Add a pinch of sea salt to taste. You can also add a touch of lemon juice or zest to brighten the flavors.
3. Chill: Place the uni butter in the refrigerator for 10–15 minutes. This allows the butter to firm up, making it easier to spread when assembling the sushi.

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Making Sea Urchin Sushi with Uni Butter: Step-by-Step Recipe

Follow these steps to create beautifully crafted sea urchin sushi with uni butter at home:

Step 1: Prepare the Sushi Rice

1. Cook the Rice: Rinse 1 cup of short-grain sushi rice thoroughly, then cook it according to the package instructions.
2. Season the Rice: In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon sugar, and ½ teaspoon salt until dissolved. Gently fold this mixture into the warm rice, allowing it to cool to room temperature.

Step 2: Assemble the Sushi

1. Form the Rice Base: Take a small amount of seasoned sushi rice (about a tablespoon) and mold it with your fingers into an oblong shape.
2. Add Uni Butter: Spread a thin layer of chilled uni butter on top of the rice. The butter should be just enough to add richness without overwhelming the flavors.
3. Place the Uni: Gently place a piece of fresh uni on top of the rice and uni butter. Ensure the uni is securely positioned on the rice.

Step 3: Wrap with Nori (Optional)

1. Cut Nori Strips: Slice a sheet of nori into thin strips and wrap one around each piece of sushi. This adds flavor and provides a lovely visual contrast.
2. Garnish: Top each sushi piece with a small dab of wasabi, a sprinkle of lemon zest, or a few microgreens for an elegant presentation.

For additional high-quality seafood, including crab, visit our Crab Collection.

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Presentation Tips for Uni Butter Sea Urchin Sushi

A well-presented sushi dish makes a lasting impression. Here’s how to elevate your sea urchin sushi presentation:

• Use Dark Plates: A dark or neutral-colored plate enhances the vibrant orange color of the uni, making it stand out visually.
• Garnish with Care: Add microgreens, edible flowers, or a touch of lemon zest for a sophisticated finish without detracting from the uni’s natural beauty.
• Serve Chilled: Keep the sushi slightly chilled to maintain the freshness and creamy texture of the uni.

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Ideal Pairings for Sea Urchin Sushi with Uni Butter

Pairing your sushi with the right drink can enhance the dining experience. Here are a few excellent pairing options:

1. Sake Pairing

• Daiginjo Sake: Daiginjo sake’s light, floral notes complement the umami-rich flavors of uni.
• Sparkling Sake: This modern choice adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy texture of uni butter sushi.

2. Champagne or Sparkling Wine

• The crisp acidity and bubbles in a Brut champagne cleanse the palate, pairing well with the richness of the uni butter.

3. White Wine

• Chablis or Sauvignon Blanc: These wines have high acidity and minerality, balancing the buttery texture of uni and adding a clean, refreshing finish to each bite.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Sea Urchin Sushi with Uni Butter

Q1: How should I store leftover uni butter?
Store leftover uni butter in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, or freeze it for up to a month.

Q2: Can I use frozen uni for this recipe?
Yes, frozen uni can be used, but fresh uni is preferred for the best flavor. If using frozen, thaw it gently in the refrigerator before use.

Q3: How much uni should I prepare per guest?
Plan for approximately 2-3 pieces of uni per person, depending on how many servings of sushi you intend to make.

Q4: Where can I buy high-quality uni for this dish?
You can find premium uni at Global Seafoods, where we offer fresh, sustainably sourced sea urchin for a gourmet experience.

Q5: What are some good garnishes for uni sushi?
Popular garnishes include fresh wasabi, microgreens, lemon zest, and even a touch of caviar for an added touch of luxury.

For more sushi-making and pairing tips, visit the Global Seafoods YouTube Channel.

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