Surimi

We think that many domestic culinary experts at least once used such a food product as crab meat or crab sticks when preparing salads or snacks. Many believe that such a product as crab sticks was invented by food manufacturers in our time. However, as they say, "everything new is a well-forgotten old. "

Modern crab meat is a vivid confirmation of this. At the heart of crab meat or sticks is such a Japanese food product as surimi. Literally translated from Japanese, surimi or 擂り身 means "chipped and chopped meat. " Researchers of the world culinary tradition found the first references to surimi in written sources, which date back to 1100.

Composition of surimi

The classic composition of surimi included white meat from ocean species of fish. Moreover, the fish meat was ground to a homogeneous consistency. The resulting fish mass was distinguished by a subtle taste and a pleasant fish aroma. The Japanese used surimi to sculpt funny figures that were served to the table on holidays.

In addition, sausages and fish balls were made from antimony. It is worth noting that although the composition of surimi is similar to ordinary fish mince - these are still two different culinary products. Currently, surimi is used as the main ingredient in many Japanese dishes. Crab sticks and crab meat, which are made from surimi, have gained global fame.

Modern food producers produce surimi from fish species such as mackerel, pollock, iwashi, as well as herring. It is worth noting that the more expensive version of surimi is made from shrimp meat, which is thoroughly ground to a uniform consistency. Due to their neutral taste and aroma characteristics, surimi is often used in the food industry to imitate different seafood.

Dyes and food additives are added to the surimi composition, as a result, crab meat or other types of products are obtained. However, do not underestimate the vitamin-mineral composition of surimi, which contains vitamins of group A, B, E, as well as PP. In addition, surimi is enriched with magnesium, zinc, iron, as well as sodium, potassium, phosphorus and calcium.

Surimi can be purchased ready-made or prepare the product yourself at home. You can use surimi in the same way as fish mince. Surimi is best for making fish patties or burgers. In addition, surimi can be used as part of the first courses and snacks, and the product can be an excellent filling for baking or fish rolls.