Anchovy Nigiri Sushi

Anchovy Fillet Nigiri with Assorted Toppings

Not only are anchovies delicious, but they are nutritious, too.  These silver fleshed beauties are plentiful in heart healthy omega-3 fatty acids.  And if you’re looking for seafood with low mercury levels, anchovies are a great solution.

If you need a fresh way to experience anchovies, try nigiri zushi with various toppings. With a little creativity, you can swing the flavor of the nigiri in any way you like. From spicy to clean and fresh, here are a few suggestions for topping your anchovy nigiri zushi.

For an excellent source of sustainable anchovies, check out i love blue sea. They sell whole anchovies as well as marinated anchovy fillets.

To prepare the nigiri:

About 2 cups prepared sushi rice

10-12 anchovy fillets

1 sheet (4 x 7in) nori, cut into thin strips

Start making rice “balls”. To do this, wet your fingertips and palms lightly with water. Grab a walnut sized amount of prepared sushi rice (about 2 tablespoons) and mold it into a flat rectangular mound. The bottom should be flat. Repeat this with the remaining rice to form 10 –12 rice balls.

Pat the bottom of each anchovy fillet dry. Place each anchovy fillet on top of each of the rice balls. Use a thin strip of nori to secure the anchovies to the rice balls. Before serving, top each nigiri with the topping(s) of your choice, Serve with Ponzu Dipping Sauce if desired

Grated daikon radish

Grated ginger root

Toasted Seeds

Thin slice of jalapeno

Cilantro + generous dot of Sriracha chili paste

Dollop of  Spicy Mayo

Quail Egg Yolk

Masago Roe

Paper thin lemon or lime slice

Minced green onion

Chives