Measure the rice using a kitchen scale. Rinse the rice in a colander 2-3 times until the water runs mostly clear. Set aside to drain.
Combine Stock and Seasonings:
In a cup, mix the chicken stock with oyster sauce, bouillon powder, mirin, and soy sauce.
Prepare the Salmon:
If the salmon has skin, remove it. Slice the salmon into pieces about 2.5 inches (6 cm) long and 0.5 inch (1.25 cm) thick. Set aside.
Boil the Rice:
Place the rinsed rice in a 12-15 inch (30-38 cm) casserole skillet or braiser. Spread the rice evenly, then pour in the seasoned stock. Level the rice again with the back of a spoon, cover the pot with the lid slightly ajar, and bring it to a gentle boil over medium-high heat for 5-6 minutes.
Add salmon and simmer:
Reduce the heat to low. Arrange the salmon pieces on top of the rice in a single layer. Cover the pot tightly with the lid. Simmer on low for 12-15 minutes. Keep the lid on the entire time to ensure even cooking.
Check for Doneness:
After simmering, quickly lift the lid and test the rice. If the grains are still firm in the center (al dente) or you see excess liquid, cover again and continue to simmer for another 5 minutes until the rice reaches an al dente texture and the liquid has been absorbed. Once done, turn off the heat.
Rest:
Move the pot off the stove and let it rest with the lid on for 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the rice to settle.
Season, Fluff, and Adjust:
Drizzle the rice with rice vinegar. Using a rice paddle, gently fluff the rice and the salmon by lifting from the bottom up. Taste, and add more salt or vinegar if needed. Aim for a less salty flavor, as the garnishes will add extra savoriness.
Garnish and Serve:
Lightly drizzle additional oyster sauce on top, then sprinkle with scallions, sesame seeds, and furikake (if using). Add lemon slices for a fresh touch.
Serve Warm:
Serve immediately, with optional seaweed snacks on the side. Use the seaweed to scoop up the salmon and rice for an extra layer of flavor.
Video
Notes
Important: For accurate measurements, use a kitchen weight scale to measure both the rice and the water.
Rice-to-liquid ratio is: 1 cup of short-grain rice to 1 ⅓ cups of liquid. To be accurate:
300 grams (about 1.5 cups) of short-grain white rice: 400 grams (about 1 ⅔ cups) of chicken stock
If making a larger batch - 400 grams (about 2 cups) of short-grain white rice: 533 grams (about 2 ¼ cups) of chicken stock
This ratio (1:1.33) is slightly higher in liquid than a typical rice-to-water ratio (usually closer to 1:1 for short-grain rice), because of the absorption of flavors from the chicken stock and seasonings and the size of the pan (wide and flat). The rice will be in al dente texture for this recipe.