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Steamed Rice and Salmon Bowl

17/11/2023

The steamed rice and salmon bowl is a simple, nutritious and tasty dish, inspired by oriental flavors but that we can enrich with an Italian touch. Here’s how to prepare it.

Ingredients

  • 200 g of Basmati rice or sushi rice (depending on preference)
  • 2 fresh salmon fillets (about 150-200 g each)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 zucchini
  • 1 carrot
  • Sesame seeds (white or black), as desired
  • Soy sauce, to serve
  • 1 lemon (for garnish and to add flavor)

Optional for an Italian touch:

  • Chopped chives or fresh parsley
  • A pinch of dried oregano

Preparation

  1. Start by cooking the rice. Rinse it under cold running water to remove excess starch and then put it in a saucepan with twice its volume of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer covered for about 10-15 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked but still al dente. If you are using sushi rice, follow the specific cooking instructions for that type of rice.

  2. In the meantime, steam the salmon fillets. Sprinkle them with a pinch of salt and pepper and, if you like, a bit of dried oregano. If you have a steaming basket, use it over a pot with some already boiling water. Place the salmon fillets in the basket and cover. Steam for about 7-10 minutes, or until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

  3. Cut the zucchini and carrot into sticks or julienne. You can steam them for a few minutes if you prefer your vegetables softer or leave them raw for a crunchy texture.

  4. Assemble the bowl by laying down the rice as a base, add the cooked salmon on top, surround it with the raw or steamed vegetables, and sprinkle with sesame seeds.

  5. Finish the dish with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, a sprinkling of chopped chives or parsley, to add that green and aromatic Italian touch.

  6. Serve with a slice of lemon to squeeze as desired and, if you like, a little soy sauce on the side to dress.

Trivia

Bowls with a rice base and various types of toppings have become very popular in many world cuisines. They are inspired by the Japanese donburi, a one-dish meal that combines rice with different ingredients on top. It’s a great way to combine flavors and have a complete meal in a single bowl.

Steamed Rice and Salmon Bowl