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There’s nothing quite like the heartwarming experience of making your own sushi at home, especially when it features the irresistible sweetness of unagi — grilled eel that melts in your mouth. I discovered this unagi sushi recipe on a rainy afternoon when I craved something comforting yet elegant. The first bite transports you to a bustling izakaya in Tokyo, where flavors dance harmoniously on your palate.

What’s even better? This unagi nigiri is a breeze to prepare, thanks to pre-cooked eel available at your local Asian market. With just a few simple ingredients like sushi rice and unagi sauce, you can create stunning pieces that are not only visually appealing but also protein-rich and gluten-free. Perfect for impressing family and friends or simply treating yourself, this dish is a culinary delight that effortlessly brings a taste of Japan into your kitchen. Let’s dive into the details of making this delectable dish!

Why is Unagi Sushi so Appealing?

Simplicity: Crafting unagi sushi at home requires minimal effort, making it accessible for cooks of all levels.
Savory Delight: The combination of grilled eel and unagi sauce creates a unique sweet-savory experience that captivates the taste buds.
Visually Stunning: Each nigiri piece is a work of art, perfect for impressing guests at dinner parties or family gatherings.
Nutrient-Rich: Packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids, this sushi is not just delicious but also a healthy option.
Cultural Touch: Enjoying homemade unagi sushi brings a slice of Japanese culture to your table, enriching your culinary repertoire.
Quick Preparation: Using pre-cooked eel saves time, allowing you to enjoy this exquisite dish in under an hour!

Unagi Sushi Ingredients

• Here’s everything you need for perfect Unagi Sushi, or eel sushi, at home!

For the Nigiri

Grilled Unagi (Eel) – Ensure it is pre-cooked, as raw eel is toxic and dangerous to consume.
Sushi Rice – Use short-grain sushi rice for the ideal texture needed for forming nigiri.
Rice Vinegar – Essential for seasoning the rice, it balances sweetness with mild acidity for flavor.
Sugar – Adds a touch of sweetness to the rice seasoning, enhancing overall taste.
Salt – Enhances the flavor profile of the seasoned rice.

For the Assembly

Unagi Sauce – Provides rich sweetness and umami; homemade versions can elevate the dish even more.
Nori Seaweed – Used for wrapping or garnishing nigiri; can be omitted if you prefer a sushi-less presentation.
Toasted Sesame Seeds – A crunchy garnish that adds nutty flavor and visual appeal.

For Serving

Wasabi – Adds a spicy kick that complements the sweetness of unagi.
Pickled Ginger – Traditionally served alongside sushi, it aids digestion and refreshes the palate between bites.

How to Make Unagi Sushi

Cook the rice: Start by rinsing the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and helps in achieving the right texture. Cook in a rice cooker for perfect results.
Season the rice: In a bowl, mix rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until dissolved. Once the rice is cooked and still warm, gently fold this mixture into the rice for a flavorful balance.
Prepare the unagi: Take your pre-cooked eel and place it on a lined baking tray. Bake at 350°F (176°C) for about 15 minutes, or follow the package instructions until heated through.
Slice the unagi: After baking, carefully cut the eel lengthwise. Then, slice the eel into 3-inch long and 1-inch wide pieces at a 45-degree angle for that ideal nigiri shape.
Shape the rice: Wet your hands with water to prevent sticking, then take about 1 tablespoon of seasoned rice and mold it into oval shapes that will cradle the unagi.
Assemble nigiri: Place each slice of eel on top of the formed rice. Lightly brush with unagi sauce, wrap with a strip of nori if using, and finish off with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds.
Serve: Present your gorgeous nigiri on a plate alongside soy sauce, a dab of wasabi, and pickled ginger for that authentic sushi experience.

Optional: Garnish with extra sesame seeds for added crunch and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Unagi Sushi

Quality Eel Matters: Use high-quality pre-cooked eel for the best flavor and texture. Avoid unseen preservatives by checking labels when purchasing.
Perfect Rice: Rinse the sushi rice thoroughly before cooking; this prevents excessive stickiness and ensures a great bite. Cook with the right water-to-rice ratio for perfect results every time.
Cutting Technique: A sharp knife is essential for slicing the unagi. Clean cuts ensure even pieces that sit beautifully atop the rice and enhance presentation.
Seasoning Balance: Ensure your rice vinegar, sugar, and salt mixture is well dissolved before combining it with rice. This guarantees even seasoning throughout the sushi.
Assemble with Care: When shaping and assembling your nigiri, wet your hands frequently to avoid rice sticking, allowing for a smoother and neater process.
Serve Fresh: Enjoy unagi sushi immediately after assembling for the best flavor and texture. Leftovers can lose their charm, so prepare just what you’ll eat.

Storage Tips for Unagi Sushi

Fridge: Store leftover unagi sushi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. This helps maintain taste and freshness.

Reheating: If you want to enjoy leftovers, sprinkle a little water on the rice and gently microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This restores moisture without overcooking the eel.

Room Temperature: Avoid leaving unagi sushi at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Sushi is best enjoyed fresh to appreciate its flavors fully.

Freezer: Although freezing is not recommended due to texture changes, if you must, wrap each nigiri in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for no longer than 1 month.

Unagi Sushi Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to mix things up and create your own delightful take on this traditional favorite!

Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce to keep your dish gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.
Vegan Option: Substitute grilled portobello mushrooms for unagi, brushed with a sweet soy glaze to mimic the savory sweetness of eel.
Spicy Kick: Drizzle a spicy mayo made from sriracha and mayonnaise over your nigiri for a zesty twist that warms the palate.
Crispy Texture: Add tempura flakes as a garnish for a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender eel and rice.
Herb Infusion: Mix fresh cilantro or basil into the sushi rice for a fragrant twist that brightens every bite.
Fruit Addition: Top your nigiri with sliced mango or peach for a refreshing sweetness that complements the savory eel.
Sushi Roll: Transform this into a sushi roll by placing the eel and some vegetables inside nori and sushi rice, then slicing them into rolls.
Sesame Crunch: Replace plain sesame seeds with flavored furikake for an added layer of umami and delightful crunch on top.

What to Serve with Unagi Sushi?

Elevate your unagi sushi experience with delightful pairings that complement its rich flavors and textures.

Soy Sauce: A classic dipping sauce that enhances the umami of the eel and balances the dish’s sweetness.
Wasabi: Adds a spicy kick, awakening the palate and beautifully contrasting the sweet notes of the unagi.
Pickled Ginger: Traditionally served alongside sushi, its crispness refreshes the taste buds between bites, enhancing the overall experience.
Miso Soup: A warm, comforting side that adds earthiness and rounds out the meal with its savory depth.
Cucumber Salad: Light and crisp, this salad offers a bright, refreshing crunch that pairs well with the richness of the eel.
Sweet Potato Tempura: Crunchy and slightly sweet, tempura adds a delightful texture contrast alongside the tender sushi.

A warm cup of green tea would serve as the perfect drink to cleanse the palate and enhance the flavors of unagi.

End your meal on a sweet note with mochi ice cream, offering creamy, delightful bites that provide a fitting conclusion to a Japanese-inspired feast.

Make Ahead Options

These Unagi Sushi (Eel Sushi) are ideal for meal prep, making it easier to enjoy this delightful dish even on your busiest days! You can prepare the sushi rice up to 24 hours in advance—simply cook and season it, then refrigerate it in an airtight container. The unagi can also be pre-sliced and stored separately, keeping it fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your sushi, gently reheat the eel in the oven until warm and mold the chilled rice into nigiri shapes. This way, you’ll have a gourmet treat that feels just as delicious as fresh sushi from the restaurant!

Unagi Sushi Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right unagi for sushi?
Absolutely! When choosing grilled unagi (eel), look for pre-cooked options at your local Asian market. Opt for eel that is vacuum-sealed or packed in a way that guarantees freshness. It should have a rich, dark color without any dark spots or unpleasant smell, indicating it’s still good to use.

How should I store leftover unagi sushi?
Very important! Store leftover unagi sushi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. This will help maintain its freshness and flavors. Avoid leaving it at room temperature for more than 2 hours, as sushi is best enjoyed fresh for the best tasting experience.

Can I freeze unagi sushi, and if so, how?
The more, the merrier! To freeze unagi sushi, wrap each nigiri tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. You can freeze it for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. However, be warned that the texture may change after freezing, and it’s best enjoyed fresh.

What should I do if my sushi rice isn’t sticky enough?
Don’t worry, that happens to the best of us! If your sushi rice isn’t sticky, it may not have been rinsed properly or the water-to-rice ratio may have been off. Next time, make sure to rinse the rice until the water runs clear to remove excess starch, which helps achieve that coveted sticky texture. Adjusting the cooking water can also improve the texture; typically, 1 cup of rice to 1.25 cups of water works well.

Are there any dietary considerations for unagi sushi?
Definitely! Unagi sushi is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure your unagi sauce is also gluten-free. Keep in mind that eel is a common allergen, so check with your guests if anyone has seafood allergies. Pairing it with fresh vegetables like avocado or cucumber can also cater to diverse dietary preferences.