Discover a delightful twist on traditional sushi with our Swiss Chard Mehari Zushi! This vibrant, healthy dish combines the earthy flavors of Swiss chard with creamy avocado and crunchy cucumber, all wrapped in perfectly seasoned sushi rice. Whether you're a sushi aficionado or a curious beginner, this recipe is not only easy to make but also a feast for the eyes and the taste buds. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this colorful, nutritious treat that’s perfect for any occasion!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Japanese
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked sushi rice
- 1 bunch Swiss chard, stems removed
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 cucumber, julienned
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- Salt to taste
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Start by preparing the sushi rice. Rinse 2 cups of sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and helps achieve the perfect texture.
- Cook the rinsed sushi rice according to your rice cooker’s instructions or on the stovetop. Typically, use a 1:1 ratio of rice to water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat, cover, and simmer for about 18-20 minutes. Once cooked, let it sit covered for 10 minutes.
- While the rice is resting, prepare the Swiss chard. Bring a pot of water to a boil and blanch the Swiss chard leaves for about 2-3 minutes until they are tender but still vibrant in color. Remove them from the pot and immediately plunge them into an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain and pat dry.
- Once the sushi rice has rested, transfer it to a large bowl. Add 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar and a pinch of salt to taste. Gently fold the vinegar into the rice using a spatula, being careful not to mash the grains. Allow the rice to cool to room temperature.
- Prepare your fillings. Slice the avocado into thin strips and julienne the cucumber into long, thin pieces.
- To assemble the zushi, lay a piece of blanched Swiss chard leaf flat on a clean surface. Place a spoonful of sushi rice in the center of the leaf, spreading it out slightly but leaving space at the edges.
- Layer a few slices of avocado and some julienned cucumber on top of the rice.
- Carefully fold the sides of the Swiss chard leaf over the filling, then roll it up from the bottom to create a tight wrap. Repeat this process for the remaining leaves and fillings.
- Once all the zushi are rolled, cut them into bite-sized pieces using a sharp knife. Wipe the knife with a damp cloth between cuts to ensure clean edges.
- Transfer the Swiss Chard Mehari Zushi to a serving platter. Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top for garnish and serve immediately with soy sauce or your favorite dipping sauce.
Tips
- Perfect Sushi Rice: Rinsing the sushi rice is crucial for achieving the right texture. Make sure to wash it thoroughly until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
- Blanching Swiss Chard: To keep the Swiss chard vibrant and tender, don’t skip the ice bath after blanching. This step halts the cooking process and preserves the beautiful green color.
- Cooling the Rice: Allow the sushi rice to cool to room temperature before assembling. This will help prevent the Swiss chard from wilting and ensure a fresh, crisp bite.
- Filling Variations: Feel free to get creative with your fillings! Add thinly sliced carrots, bell peppers, or even cooked shrimp for extra flavor and texture.
- Sharp Knife for Cutting: Use a sharp knife to cut the rolled zushi into bite-sized pieces. Wiping the knife with a damp cloth between cuts will help maintain clean edges for a more polished presentation.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve your Swiss Chard Mehari Zushi with soy sauce, wasabi, or your favorite dipping sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
