Step-by-step

Oshizushi

Pressed Sushi

Pressed sushi is made in a specially designed wooden mould called oshizushi-bako, 'pressed sushi box'. This is the oldest type of sushi, originating from the method used to preserve fish in rice.

A type of oshizushi called battera made with mackeral, is still a favourite and a specialty in Osaka. Usually cooked rather than raw fish is used, however modern Japanese chefs, especially those living outside Japan, use all kinds of ingredients as toppings, including sundried tomato, grilled eggplant and cucumber.

Traditionally, pressed sushi is cut into long slices. But also cutting down the middle results in neat squares, which make perfect bite-sized hors d'oeuvres.

Pressed sushi makes a great alternative for people who do not like nori seaweed, which is not needed (although nori can be added as a decorative layer).

Pressed sushi boxes are made of three parts: a base, a surrounding box and a top for pressing. They come in either square or rectangular shapes of varying sizes.

Follow our online instructions for how to make oshizushi at home using our wooden box mould.

Step 3. Place the topping in the base of the box, presentation side down. Here we have used pickled herring. TIP: If you are using a particularly delicate topping, the box can be lined with cling film first to make removal easier.

Step 4. Cover topping with prepared sushi rice. Use dampened fingers to even out rice, pressing gently to make sure there are no gaps which can form a weak spot after pressing. TIP: A decorative layer of nori or other filling can be added at this stage if desired. In that case, half fill with rice, press gently, add second ingredient layer, then cover with more rice.

Step 5. Place damp lid on top of the sushi rice. Press firmly and evenly to compress rice while holding the sides of the box.

Step 6. Continue to press gently on the lid to keep the base down, while slowly lifting the box away from the sushi rice. TIP: If the rice is stuck, use a thin-bladed knife gently to loosen rice from sides of box before removing.

Step 7. Gently ease the lid away from the sushi rice with a thin-bladed knife.

Step 8. Flip the pressed sushi log onto a plate or board so that the topping, still covered with the box base, will be on top.

Step 10. Slice pressed sushi log into pieces and serve in pairs.

Buy Oshizushi-bako pressed sushi box online!

Japanese Sushi-making Equipment Page

Sushigeta Wooden Sushi Platter Details

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