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SUSHI 21 RECIPES
Insalata Caprese Giapponese
BY: DAVID BYUN
During the latest G20 Summit, Japan and Italy developed a new
diplomatic milestone. This new agreement led to the development of
Insalata Caprese Giapponese at Sushi 21. Now that you know I'm kidding
by now, the Sushi 21 Japanese Caprese Salad is currently not available
in the menu, but I thought it would be a good idea to share the recipe
for this simple, yet delightful dish, so you can enjoy it at home.
If you are familiar with the Italian Caprese Salad, you know that,
despite small variations, the basic ingredients consist of tomatoes,
mozzarella di bufala, basil, and olive oil. Introducing the Sushi 21
recipe for Insalata Caprese Giapponese, this is what happens when east
meets west.
Ingredients:
- Fresh tomatoes (sliced 1/2" thick)
- Firm or Silken tofu (sliced 1/2" thick, cut in similar dimensions to the tomato)
- Basil leaves
- Either Ponzu or Soy sauce (to taste)
- Olive oil
- Salt & fresh pepper (to taste)
Optional ingredients:
- Basil leaves may be substituted with either Perilla leaves (found in Asian markets) or Arugula leaves
- Alfalfa sprouts
- Thin slice of Soy sauce-sprinkled fresh or seared tuna OR fresh or smoked salmon
- Oregano (may be used conservatively so that it does not overwhelm the fragrance of any of the leaves used)
Preparation:
1. Simply place the sliced fresh tomatoes on a plate. You may add salt and pepper on the tomato if you prefer.
2. Add basil leaves on top towards the periphery of the tomato (stem
towards the center). About 3-4 leaves per tomato suggested.
3. Add sliced tofu on top. Tip: Although tofu is stored in water, you may dry the tofu with paper towel. You may also cut the tofu with a round cookie cutter.
4. Add olive oil, salt and fresh pepper to taste.
5. Add Ponzu sauce. Alternatively, you may use Soy sauce to taste.
6. Enjoy.
Tip: As with any Japanese cuisine and Caprese salad, the
hallmark of this healthy dish is simplicity. More does not mean better,
so if you decide to use optional ingredients, use them conservatively.
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