Hawaiian seasonings can turn a simple meal into a flavorful feast. One of the stars of Hawaiian cuisine is nori komi furikake, a rice seasoning made with dried seaweed, sesame seeds, and a touch of salt or sugar. This versatile seasoning is perfect for adding a taste of Hawaii to your meals. Let’s explore how you can build a delicious meal using nori komi furikake and other Hawaiian-inspired ingredients.
Start with the base: rice
Rice is the foundation of many Hawaiian dishes. Cook up some white, brown, or even sushi rice as the base for your meal. Once the rice is ready, sprinkle a generous amount of nori komi furikake rice seasoning over it. This step adds a nutty, salty, and slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with many toppings.
For a twist, you can mix the furikake into the rice while it’s still warm. This ensures every bite has that rich flavor. If you want to get creative, try shaping the rice into onigiri (rice balls) or using it as a layer in a poke bowl.
Add some protein
Hawaiian meals often include fresh seafood, but you can use other proteins too. Here are some ideas:
- Poke-style fish: Dice fresh tuna or salmon, and marinate it in soy sauce, sesame oil, and a bit of rice vinegar. Serve it over your furikake-seasoned rice.
- Grilled chicken or beef: Add a touch of teriyaki sauce for sweetness and caramelization.
- Tofu or tempeh: If you prefer plant-based options, marinate these in a similar way and grill or pan-fry them.
After cooking, sprinkle a little extra nori komi furikake on your protein for added flavor.
Pack in the veggies
Vegetables not only make your meal healthier but also add texture and color. Hawaiian meals often feature:
- Pickled veggies: Try pickled cucumbers, radishes, or carrots. They add a tangy crunch that balances the savory flavors.
- Grilled or roasted vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, or sweet potatoes pair wonderfully with Hawaiian flavors.
- Seaweed salad: A side of seaweed salad is a perfect nod to the ocean-inspired ingredients of Hawaii.
Pro tip: Lightly drizzle sesame oil or soy sauce over your veggies, then top with more Hawaiian furikake rice seasoning to tie the flavors together.
Include some tropical flair
Hawaiian meals are all about balance, so don’t forget to add a hint of sweetness or tropical flavor. Here’s how:
- Fresh fruit: Pineapple chunks, mango slices, or even papaya work well as side dishes.
- Coconut elements: A sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes on your rice or dessert is a great touch.
- Sweet sauces: A drizzle of sweet chili sauce or a dollop of coconut cream can elevate your meal.
Final touches and plating
Now it’s time to bring it all together. Place your rice, protein, and veggies side by side in a bowl or on a plate. Garnish generously with nori komi furikake for flavor and presentation. If you have it, add a sprinkle of chopped green onions or sesame seeds. For an extra kick, try a dash of sriracha or a spoonful of wasabi mayo.
Serve with a side of miso soup or Hawaiian rolls for a complete meal.
Tips to get creative
- Sushi-style wraps: Use nori sheets and turn your meal into hand-rolls or sushi. Add the furikake as a topping for extra crunch.
- Breakfast twist: Add a fried egg on top of your furikake-seasoned rice for a Hawaiian-inspired breakfast.
- Fusion bowls: Combine the Hawaiian flavors with other cuisines, like adding avocado for a California-style poke bowl.
Try nori komi furikake today
Building a meal with Hawaiian seasonings like nori komi furikake rice seasoning is simple, fun, and delicious. It’s all about balancing flavors and textures while celebrating the unique taste of Hawaii.
