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Chicken Tempura Roll

Crispy Chicken Tempura Roll - 30-Minute Sushi Delight

Discover the delightful fusion of crispy Chicken Tempura Roll, bringing a bit of Japanese comfort food to your kitchen in just 30 minutes!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Steaming Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 rolls
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Japanese
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Sushi Rice
  • 1 cup short-grain rice Provides sticky texture essential for sushi rolls; use sushi rice varieties for authentic flavor.
  • 1.25 cups cold water Used for cooking rice; ensures proper texture.
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar Adds a tangy flavor to sushi rice; apple cider vinegar can be a mild substitute.
  • 1 tablespoon sugar Balances the acidity of the vinegar; honey works as an alternative for sweetness.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Enhances overall flavor; adjust according to taste.
For the Chicken Tempura
  • 8 oz chicken breast Diced into strips for tempura; dark meat offers a juicier alternative.
  • 0.5 cups plain flour Forms part of the batter; gluten-free flour can be used for a gluten-free version.
  • 1 cup corn flour Creates a crispy coating; consistent texture is key.
  • 1 teaspoon seasoning mix Adjust to personal preference; includes salt & black pepper.
  • 1.5 cups neutral cooking oil Used for frying; ensure a high smoke point with vegetable or canola oil as substitutes.
For Assembly
  • 1 sheet nori Wraps the sushi and holds the roll together; available at most grocery stores.
  • 1 medium ripe avocado Adds creaminess and flavor; consider cucumber or cream cheese as substitutes.
  • 1 tablespoon white and black sesame seeds For garnish, enhancing visual appeal and adding a light nuttiness.

Equipment

  • Bamboo mat
  • Deep pan
  • Medium pot
  • Kitchen thermometer

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by rinsing 1 cup of short-grain rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This process removes excess starch to ensure your sushi rice has the perfect sticky texture. After rinsing, drain the rice well, and set it aside to prepare for cooking.
  2. In a medium pot, combine the rinsed rice with 1¼ cups of cold water and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 12 minutes.
  3. Once the timer goes off, remove the pot from heat but keep it covered. Allow the rice to steam for an additional 10 minutes; this step is crucial to achieving the right texture.
  4. In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and a pinch of salt until dissolved. Gently fold this mixture into the warm sushi rice using a wooden spatula.
  5. Slice about 8 oz of chicken breast into ½-inch strips against the grain. Set up two shallow bowls: one with plain flour combined with half the seasoning mix, and the other with corn flour combined with the remaining seasoning.
  6. In a deep pan, pour in 1½ cups of neutral cooking oil and heat it to 350°F. When the oil is shimmering, it’s ready for frying.
  7. Take each chicken strip and first coat it in the flour mixture, then dip it into the corn flour mixture. Carefully place the coated strips into the hot oil and fry for about 3-4 minutes until they turn a deep golden brown.
  8. Once golden, remove the chicken strips with a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack to drain excess oil.
  9. On a bamboo mat, lay a sheet of nori shiny side down. Spread a thin layer of the seasoned rice evenly over the nori, leaving about a 1-inch border at the top.
  10. Line the center of the rice with the crispy chicken strips and thinly sliced avocado. Gently lift the bamboo mat and start rolling the sushi away from you, tucking in the filling as you go.
  11. Continue to roll tightly but gently until you reach the exposed edge of the nori. Use a little water to seal the edge. With a sharp, wet knife, slice the roll into bite-sized pieces.
  12. Sprinkle white and black sesame seeds over the top for a beautiful presentation. Arrange your crispy Chicken Tempura Roll on a plate and serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1rollCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 20gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

For extra crunch, dip chicken in ice water before frying. To prevent squishing, wet your knife before cutting the rolls. Store in airtight containers for freshness up to 24 hours.

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