Soba Noodle Sushi

Vegetarian Soba Noodle Sushi Recipe from New Zealand

Region / culture: New Zealand | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Soba noodle sushi is a unique twist on traditional sushi, combining the flavors of Japanese soba noodles with the presentation of sushi rolls. This dish is perfect for those looking to try something new and exciting in their sushi repertoire.

History

Soba noodle sushi is a modern fusion dish that combines the flavors of traditional Japanese soba noodles with the presentation of sushi rolls. This dish has gained popularity in recent years as a creative and delicious alternative to traditional sushi.

Ingredients

0.5 lb (225 g) soba noodles, blanched until al dente
0.25 cup finely sliced spring onions (scallions), green part only
2 tbsp light soy sauce
1 tbsp rice wine vinegar
2 tbsp wasabi oil (recipe follows)
0.25 cup pickled ginger, finely chopped
10 sheets of nori
1 cucumber, peeled and finely julienned
1 red bell pepper, julienned
1 yellow bell pepper, julienned

Garnish

How to prepare

1) In a large mixing bowl, combine soba noodles, spring onions (scallions), soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, Wasabi oil, and pickled ginger.
2) Taste the mixture for seasoning.
3) Place one sheet of nori, shiny side down, on a sushi mat.
4) Spread a thin layer of the noodle mixture on the bottom third of the nori.
5) Arrange cucumber and peppers on top of the noodle mixture.
6) Roll the sushi tightly.
7) Moisten the top edge of the nori with water to seal the sushi roll closed.
8) Slice the sushi roll and arrange it on a white platter.
9) Drizzle the sushi with Wasabi oil and soy syrup.
10) Garnish the sushi with spring onions (scallions) and sesame seeds.

Variations

Try adding cooked shrimp or tofu to the sushi rolls for added protein.
Experiment with different vegetables, such as avocado or radishes, for a unique flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to blanch the soba noodles until they are al dente to ensure they hold up well in the sushi rolls.

- Use a sushi mat to help roll the sushi tightly and evenly.

- Experiment with different fillings and garnishes to customize the flavor of your soba noodle sushi.

Serving Suggestions

Serve soba noodle sushi with a side of miso soup and a green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Blanche the soba noodles until al dente to ensure they hold up well in the sushi rolls.

- Use a sushi mat to help roll the sushi tightly and evenly.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use tamari or coconut aminos as a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce.

- Substitute rice vinegar with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar if needed.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the soba noodle mixture and chop the vegetables ahead of time to save time when assembling the sushi rolls.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the sushi rolls on a white platter and garnish with sesame seeds and sliced scallions for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve soba noodle sushi with a side of green tea or sake for a traditional Japanese meal experience.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover soba noodle sushi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently steam the sushi rolls or enjoy them cold.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of soba noodle sushi contains approximately 250 calories, making it a relatively light and healthy meal option.

Carbohydrates

Soba noodles are a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy for your body. Each serving of soba noodle sushi contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

The oil used in this recipe adds a small amount of fat to the dish. Each serving of soba noodle sushi contains approximately 5 grams of fat.

Proteins

Soba noodles contain a moderate amount of protein, which helps to keep you feeling full and satisfied. Each serving of soba noodle sushi contains approximately 8 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Soba noodles are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including manganese, magnesium, and niacin. These nutrients help support overall health and well-being.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy and wheat in the form of soy sauce and soba noodles, which may be allergens for some individuals. Be sure to check for any food allergies before preparing this dish.

Summary

Soba noodle sushi is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a healthy and satisfying meal option for those looking to try something new and delicious.

Summary

Soba noodle sushi is a creative and delicious twist on traditional sushi, combining the flavors of Japanese soba noodles with the presentation of sushi rolls. This dish is a healthy and satisfying meal option that is perfect for those looking to try something new and exciting in their sushi repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately captivated. It was a hot summer day and I was browsing through a local farmers market, admiring the vibrant colors and intoxicating scents of fresh produce. As I made my way through the bustling crowd, a small stand caught my eye. There, a Japanese woman was delicately preparing what looked like the most exquisite dish I had ever seen - Soba Noodle Sushi.

I had always been a lover of sushi, but this was unlike anything I had ever encountered. The woman's hands moved with a grace and precision that was mesmerizing to watch. She carefully layered cooked soba noodles, avocado, cucumber, and pickled ginger onto a sheet of nori, before rolling it all up into a tight, perfect cylinder. With a swift motion, she sliced the roll into bite-sized pieces and arranged them on a wooden platter, garnishing each piece with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and a drizzle of soy sauce.

I couldn't tear my eyes away from the beautiful creation before me. I knew I had to learn how to make this dish for myself. I approached the woman and asked her if she would be willing to share her recipe with me. She smiled kindly and nodded, motioning for me to sit down at a small table nearby. As she began to explain the steps involved in making Soba Noodle Sushi, I was struck by her passion and knowledge of Japanese cuisine. It was clear that she had spent years perfecting this recipe, and I felt honored that she was willing to pass it on to me.

Over the next few hours, I watched intently as the woman demonstrated each step of the process. She showed me how to cook the soba noodles until they were just tender, how to slice the vegetables into thin, uniform strips, and how to roll the sushi tightly to ensure a neat presentation. She explained the importance of using fresh, high-quality ingredients and encouraged me to experiment with different fillings and flavor combinations.

As I listened and absorbed each detail, I felt a sense of excitement and determination building within me. I knew that this recipe would become a treasured addition to my culinary repertoire, and I was eager to share it with my family and friends. After the woman had finished her demonstration, she handed me a handwritten copy of the recipe, complete with detailed instructions and helpful tips. I thanked her profusely and promised to honor her legacy by making the dish with care and respect.

That evening, I set to work in my own kitchen, gathering the ingredients and preparing to make Soba Noodle Sushi for the first time. As I cooked the noodles, sliced the vegetables, and assembled the rolls, I found myself fully immersed in the process. The familiar scents of nori, soy sauce, and sesame filled the air, transporting me back to that bustling farmers market where I had first discovered this recipe.

When I presented the finished dish to my family, their eyes widened in amazement. They marveled at the intricate layers of noodles and vegetables, the perfectly rolled sushi pieces, and the beautiful garnishes that adorned each one. As we sat down to eat together, I watched with pride as they savored each bite, their expressions of delight and satisfaction filling me with joy.

From that day on, Soba Noodle Sushi became a staple in our household. I made it for special occasions, for family gatherings, and for quiet nights at home when I wanted to treat myself to something truly special. Each time I prepared the dish, I felt a deep connection to the Japanese woman who had shared her recipe with me, and I whispered a silent thank you to her for passing on this gift.

As the years passed, I continued to refine and perfect my version of Soba Noodle Sushi, adding my own touches and variations to make it uniquely my own. I shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, who were equally enchanted by its flavors and textures. And through it all, I remained grateful to the woman who had sparked my love for this dish and inspired me to explore the world of Japanese cuisine.

Today, as I sit down to write this story and share it with you, I am filled with a sense of nostalgia and warmth. The memory of that fateful day at the farmers market still lingers in my mind, a reminder of the power of food to connect us to others and to our own heritage. I hope that you will be inspired to try making Soba Noodle Sushi for yourself, to savor its exquisite flavors and share it with those you love. And who knows, perhaps one day you too will pass on this recipe to someone special, carrying on the tradition of culinary generosity and kindness that has touched my life in such a profound way.