Sushi pizza – Classic
This is the traditional, time-tested version of the dish. It stays true to its origins, using well-established techniques and ingredients that define its authentic flavor. A perfect starting point for exploring its evolution.
Country: 
Canada Region / Locale: Toronto Servings: Serves 4
Canada Region / Locale: Toronto Servings: Serves 4Sushi Pizza is a creative fusion dish that merges the iconic elements of traditional Japanese sushi with the comfort and familiarity of Italian pizza. This innovative appetizer originated in Canada, where multicultural influences are celebrated in the culinary scene. The dish features a crispy fried rice base that mimics a pizza crust, serving as the perfect vehicle for sushi ingredients such as fresh fish, creamy avocados, and vibrant vegetables. With its playful blend of cultures, Sushi Pizza offers a complex yet accessible flavor profile that is both surprising and delightful.
Ingredients
- sushi rice – 2 cups / 400 g
- rice vinegar – 3 tbsp / 45 ml
- sugar – 1 tbsp / 12 g
- salt – 1 tsp / 5 g
- nori sheets – 2 full sheets
- tuna or salmon sashimi – 200 g / 7 oz
- avocado – 1 medium, sliced
- cucumber – 1/2 medium, julienned
- sesame seeds – 2 tbsp / 18 g
- soy sauce – for drizzling
- wasabi – 1 tsp / 5 g, optional
- pickled ginger – for serving
- vegetable oil – for frying
Instructions
- Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Put the rice in a pot with 2.5 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let it sit for 10 minutes.
- Mix the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt in a small bowl. Fold this mixture into the cooked rice while still warm, then spread the rice onto a baking sheet to cool slightly.
- Heat a layer of vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Form the rice into small patties or disks. Fry each patty for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Drain them on paper towels.
- Cut the nori sheets to fit the size of the rice patties and place one nori piece on each crispy rice base.
- Top each ‘crust’ with thinly sliced sashimi, cucumber, and avocado.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds and drizzle with soy sauce. Add wasabi if you like it spicy.
- Serve with pickled ginger on the side.
Substitutions
- tuna or salmon sashimi -> smoked salmon or canned tuna
- rice vinegar -> apple cider vinegar
- nori sheets -> seaweed snacks
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Add a wasabi mayo drizzle for added flavor complexity.
- Use a sushi mold to achieve uniform rice cake shapes.
- Incorporate pickled vegetables for an extra tangy kick.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
