Overview:
Surimi, a Japanese invention known for many centuries, is a versatile and flavorful paste made from deboned and minced white fish, such as pollock. It is a staple in various cuisines, including those of Japan, South Korea, France, Thailand, and Spain. Surimi is renowned for its ability to imitate the textures and flavors of more expensive seafood like crab, lobster, and shrimp, making it a popular and budget-friendly choice for many dishes.
Origin:
Surimi has its roots in Japan, dating back to 1115 when it was used for making kamaboko. It is produced by combining fish paste with ingredients like starch, egg white, sugar, and salt, then shaped into various forms, offering a spectrum of culinary possibilities.
Nutritional Value:
Surimi is a nutritious, fully-cooked product that is rich in protein. It is low in fat and calories, making it a suitable option for those maintaining a balanced diet. However, due to its higher salt content, moderate consumption is advised.
Flavor Profile:
Surimi boasts a flavor profile akin to crab, lobster, or shrimp and can be further flavored with crab, shrimp, scallops, or lobster. The highest quality surimi is crafted with wild Alaska Pollock, offering a sweet and briny flavor reminiscent of natural crab.
Culinary Uses:
Surimi is a versatile ingredient that can be used cold in salads or added to casseroles, soups, stir-fries, and more. It is a crucial component in dishes like California rolls and crab salad and can be used in recipes calling for crabmeat, lobster, or shrimp. Here are some ways to cook surimi:
- Grill: Until it has grill marks on both sides.
- Stir-fry: Until it's browned, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Steam: In a regular or Chinese-style steamer for 2 to 3 minutes.
- Microwave: At half power for 3 to 5 minutes, rotating the pieces frequently.
Availability:
Surimi is readily available and can be found in various forms, such as imitation crab, lobster, and shrimp, in many regions worldwide. It is a staple in many coastal regions and is exported globally.
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- imitation crab flakes
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- imitation crab sticks
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- imitation crab claw
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- imitation shrimp