Asparagus Sushi Squares

Asparagus Sushi Squares

Serves 48 squares
Inspiration Foodland Ontario

Ingredients

  • 1 Cup (250ml) sushi rice (available in most grocery stores)
  • 1 1/4 Cups water
  • 12 -14 Medium thickness fresh asparagus spears
  • 2 Sheets roasted nori (available at most grocery stores or Asian markets)
  • 1/4 cup regular rice vinegar (not seasoned)
  • 1 Small package of thinly sliced smoked salmon, (cut into 3/4 to 1 inch strips)
  • 2 Tbsp sweet with heat style mustard (Russian- style, President's Choice brand)
  • 2 Tbsp Miracle Whip or other kind of mayonnaise
  • 2 Tbsp sesame seeds (toasted)

Directions

In a medium to large heavy-bottomed saucepan, add rice with water, cover and bring to a boil; reduce heat to low and simmer 12 to 15 min., or until water is totally absorbed. If rice seems a little dry, add a little more water. Remove from heat. Let stand, covered for 15 minutes. With fork, gently fluff rice; stir in vinegar. If not using right away, cover with damp cloth.
Meanwhile, wash and break asparagus stalks where they snap easily; discard tough ends. Cover in boiling water 2 to 3 minutes or until fork-tender. Rinse in cold water. Drain and slice into 1 inch pieces.
With scissors, cut Nori sheet along perforated lines. Cut each long strip into 1 ½ inch squares; set aside.
Slice smoked salmon into 1 ½ in strips to wrap around asparagus. Combine mustard with mayo.
Lay out Nori squares on work surface. With stretch and seal (or any plastic wrap), place about a tbsp of rice mixture on centre of wrap; bring wrap around rice and twirl, to form a ball.
Asparagus Sushi Squares - make the rice ball
Place on Nori square; immediately place on serving platter. Repeat with remaining rice. Can be covered with plastic wrap and set aside at room temperature until serving time.
Asparagus Sushi Squares - place the rice ball
Place a small blob of mustard mixture on each rice ball.
Asparagus Sushi Squares - with mustard blob
Wrap a thin slice of salmon around an asparagus piece; place on mustard.
Asparagus Sushi Squares - with smoked salmon and asparagus
Sprinkle with sesame seeds. Serve or refrigerate.
Don't Care for Smoke Salmon?
Prosciutto can be substituted for the smoked salmon for an equally delicious flavour.