Why Sam’s Club Sushi is a Staple in My Kitchen: Recipes and Reviews
Okay, let’s get real. We all have our guilty pleasures, our quick fixes, our go-to solutions when time is short and energy is even shorter. For me, one of those things is Sam’s Club sushi. Yes, you read that right. Warehouse sushi. Before you turn up your nose, hear me out. It’s not the same as omakase from your favorite sushi chef, but it’s surprisingly good, incredibly convenient, and versatile enough to create some surprisingly delicious meals and snacks. In this article, I will delve into why I always buy Sam’s Club sushi, its pros and cons, some creative recipes you can make with it, and honest reviews of various Sam’s Club sushi offerings.
## My Love Affair with Sam’s Club Sushi: It’s All About Convenience
I’m a busy person. I juggle work, family, hobbies, and the occasional attempt at a social life. Cooking from scratch every single night? It’s a lovely aspiration, but often unrealistic. That’s where Sam’s Club sushi comes in. It’s a pre-made meal or ingredient that saves me tons of time. I can grab a platter on my way home from work and have dinner on the table in minutes. No prepping, no cooking, just open the container and enjoy.
Beyond the time-saving aspect, the availability and price are major factors. My local Sam’s Club almost always has sushi in stock, and it’s significantly cheaper than ordering takeout or eating at a sushi restaurant. This makes it a budget-friendly option for a quick lunch, dinner, or even a snack.
Furthermore, I appreciate the variety. Sam’s Club typically offers several different sushi platters, including California rolls, spicy tuna rolls, shrimp tempura rolls, and sometimes even more adventurous options. This allows me to mix things up and avoid sushi fatigue.
## The Pros and Cons: A Balanced Perspective
Before we dive into recipes, let’s be honest about the good and the bad.
**Pros:**
* **Convenience:** This is the biggest selling point. Ready-to-eat sushi in minutes.
* **Price:** Significantly cheaper than restaurant sushi.
* **Availability:** Usually in stock at most Sam’s Club locations.
* **Variety:** Offers different types of rolls and platters.
* **Portion Size:** Platters are often large enough to feed a family or provide leftovers.
* **Relatively Fresh:** Sam’s Club seems to have a good turnover rate, meaning the sushi is usually fairly fresh.
**Cons:**
* **Quality:** It’s not high-end sushi. The rice can sometimes be a little dry, and the fish isn’t always the highest grade.
* **Ingredients:** The ingredient list can be a bit long and include preservatives. If you’re looking for super clean eating, this might not be the best choice.
* **Sodium Content:** Sushi, in general, can be high in sodium, and Sam’s Club sushi is no exception.
* **Presentation:** It’s packaged in a plastic container. Not exactly aesthetically pleasing for a dinner party (unless you re-plate it!).
* **Potential for Variation:** Quality and freshness can vary from location to location and even from day to day.
Ultimately, the pros outweigh the cons for me, especially when I’m short on time and want a quick, affordable meal. However, it’s important to be aware of the limitations and manage your expectations accordingly.
## Recipes to Elevate Your Sam’s Club Sushi Experience
Now for the fun part! While Sam’s Club sushi is perfectly edible straight from the container, it can also be used as a base for some incredibly creative and delicious recipes. Here are a few of my favorites:
### 1. Sushi Bowls: Deconstructed Deliciousness
This is perhaps the easiest and most versatile way to use Sam’s Club sushi. Simply deconstruct the rolls and create a customizable sushi bowl.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 Sam’s Club sushi platter (California roll, spicy tuna, or a mix)
* Cooked white or brown rice (optional, if you want to add more bulk)
* Edamame (shelled)
* Avocado (sliced)
* Cucumber (sliced)
* Carrots (shredded or julienned)
* Seaweed salad (optional)
* Spicy mayo
* Soy sauce or tamari
* Sesame seeds
* Sriracha (optional, for extra heat)
* Furikake (Japanese seasoning blend, optional)
**Instructions:**
1. If using, prepare your rice according to package directions.
2. Carefully remove the sushi rolls from the container and slice them into bite-sized pieces. You can also break them apart into their individual components.
3. In a bowl, layer your rice (if using), sushi pieces, edamame, avocado, cucumber, carrots, and seaweed salad (if using).
4. Drizzle with spicy mayo and soy sauce or tamari.
5. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and furikake (if using).
6. Add a dash of sriracha for extra heat, if desired.
7. Enjoy!
**Tips and Variations:**
* Get creative with your toppings! Add mango, pineapple, pickled ginger, or any other vegetables you enjoy.
* Use different sauces. Try teriyaki sauce, eel sauce, or a ginger-sesame dressing.
* Add protein. Grilled chicken, tofu, or even canned tuna can be added for extra protein.
* Make it a salad. Use mixed greens instead of rice for a lighter option.
* Use quinoa instead of rice for a healthier alternative.
### 2. Sushi Burritos: A Fusion Food Fiesta
Take your sushi to the next level by wrapping it in a giant seaweed sheet (nori) for a sushi burrito.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 Sam’s Club sushi platter (California roll, spicy tuna, or a mix)
* Cooked sushi rice (essential for binding the burrito)
* Large nori seaweed sheets
* Avocado (sliced)
* Cucumber (sliced)
* Carrots (shredded or julienned)
* Spicy mayo
* Soy sauce or tamari
* Sesame seeds
**Instructions:**
1. Warm the nori sheet slightly over a low flame or in a dry pan to make it more pliable (optional but recommended).
2. Place the nori sheet on a clean surface.
3. Spread a thin layer of cooked sushi rice evenly over the nori, leaving about an inch of space at the top edge.
4. Arrange the sushi pieces, avocado, cucumber, and carrots on top of the rice.
5. Drizzle with spicy mayo and soy sauce or tamari.
6. Sprinkle with sesame seeds.
7. Carefully roll the nori sheet tightly, starting from the bottom edge and working your way up. Use a little water to seal the top edge.
8. Slice the burrito in half with a sharp knife.
9. Enjoy!
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use a bamboo sushi rolling mat to help you roll the burrito tightly.
* Add tempura flakes for extra crunch.
* Include cream cheese for a richer flavor.
* Experiment with different fillings, such as mango, kimchi, or sprouts.
* If you can’t find large nori sheets, you can piece together smaller ones.
### 3. Sushi Nachos: A Fun and Shareable Appetizer
Transform your sushi into a party-worthy appetizer with this creative take on nachos.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 Sam’s Club sushi platter (California roll, spicy tuna, or a mix)
* Wonton wrappers or tortilla chips
* Avocado (diced)
* Scallions (sliced)
* Spicy mayo
* Soy sauce or tamari
* Sesame seeds
* Pickled ginger (optional)
* Wasabi (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. Bake or fry the wonton wrappers or tortilla chips until crispy.
2. Arrange the chips on a platter.
3. Carefully remove the sushi rolls from the container and slice them into bite-sized pieces.
4. Arrange the sushi pieces on top of the chips.
5. Top with diced avocado, scallions, and pickled ginger (if using).
6. Drizzle with spicy mayo and soy sauce or tamari.
7. Sprinkle with sesame seeds.
8. Serve with wasabi on the side (optional).
9. Enjoy immediately!
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use different types of chips, such as sweet potato chips or plantain chips.
* Add a drizzle of eel sauce for a sweeter flavor.
* Include a sprinkle of furikake for extra flavor and texture.
* Top with a dollop of cream cheese for added richness.
* Make a vegetarian version using tofu or avocado instead of fish.
### 4. Fried Sushi Rice: A Quick and Easy Side Dish
Turn leftover Sam’s Club sushi into a delicious and flavorful fried rice dish.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 Sam’s Club sushi platter (leftover pieces are perfect)
* 2 cups cooked rice (day-old rice works best)
* 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
* 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
* 1 egg (optional)
* Soy sauce or tamari
* Sesame oil (optional)
* Scallions (sliced, for garnish)
**Instructions:**
1. If the sushi is in large pieces, chop it into smaller, bite-sized pieces.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cook for a few minutes until tender-crisp.
4. Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and crack the egg into the empty space (if using). Scramble the egg until cooked through.
5. Add the cooked rice and sushi pieces to the skillet.
6. Stir-fry everything together until heated through and well combined.
7. Season with soy sauce or tamari and a drizzle of sesame oil (if using).
8. Garnish with sliced scallions.
9. Serve immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add other proteins, such as cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
* Use different vegetables, such as broccoli, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
* Add a dash of sriracha or chili flakes for extra heat.
* Include a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for added flavor and texture.
* Make a vegetarian version by omitting the egg and adding extra vegetables or tofu.
### 5. Sushi Pizza: A Fun and Festive Meal
Create a unique and visually appealing sushi pizza using Sam’s Club sushi as a topping.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pre-made pizza crust or flatbread
* 1 Sam’s Club sushi platter (California roll, spicy tuna, or a mix)
* Cream cheese (softened)
* Avocado (sliced)
* Cucumber (sliced)
* Scallions (sliced)
* Spicy mayo
* Soy sauce or tamari
* Sesame seeds
* Nori seaweed (shredded or cut into strips)
**Instructions:**
1. Bake the pizza crust or flatbread according to package directions or until golden brown.
2. Let the crust cool slightly.
3. Spread a thin layer of softened cream cheese evenly over the crust.
4. Carefully remove the sushi rolls from the container and slice them into bite-sized pieces.
5. Arrange the sushi pieces, avocado, and cucumber on top of the cream cheese.
6. Drizzle with spicy mayo and soy sauce or tamari.
7. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and shredded nori seaweed.
8. Garnish with sliced scallions.
9. Slice and serve immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use a gluten-free pizza crust for a gluten-free option.
* Add a drizzle of eel sauce for a sweeter flavor.
* Include a sprinkle of furikake for extra flavor and texture.
* Top with a dollop of wasabi mayo for added heat.
* Make a vegetarian version using tofu or avocado instead of fish.
## Sam’s Club Sushi Reviews: A Taste Test
Now, let’s talk specifics. Sam’s Club offers various sushi platters, and the quality can vary. Here are my thoughts on some of the most common options:
* **California Roll Platter:** This is a classic and generally a safe bet. The imitation crab is decent, the avocado is usually ripe, and the rice is acceptable. It’s a good option for picky eaters or those new to sushi.
* **Spicy Tuna Roll Platter:** The spicy tuna can be hit or miss. Sometimes it’s flavorful and fresh, other times it can be a bit bland and fishy. Check the expiration date carefully before purchasing.
* **Shrimp Tempura Roll Platter:** These are usually pretty good. The shrimp tempura adds a nice crispy texture, and the sweet sauce complements the flavors well. However, they can be a bit heavy and greasy.
* **Variety Platter:** This is a good option if you want to try a little bit of everything. It typically includes California rolls, spicy tuna rolls, and shrimp tempura rolls. The quality is usually consistent with the individual platters.
**General Tips for Buying Sam’s Club Sushi:**
* **Check the expiration date:** Always make sure the sushi is fresh and hasn’t expired.
* **Inspect the packaging:** Look for any signs of damage or leakage.
* **Observe the appearance:** The sushi should look fresh and vibrant, not dull or discolored.
* **Trust your gut:** If something doesn’t look or smell right, don’t buy it.
## Final Thoughts: Sam’s Club Sushi – A Convenient and Versatile Option
Sam’s Club sushi may not be the best sushi in the world, but it’s a convenient, affordable, and surprisingly versatile option for busy people. With a little creativity, you can transform it into some delicious and satisfying meals and snacks. So, the next time you’re at Sam’s Club, don’t hesitate to grab a platter of sushi. You might be surprised at how much you enjoy it!
Just remember to manage your expectations, be mindful of the ingredients and sodium content, and always check the expiration date. Happy sushi-ing!