Quick Answer
6 pieces of shrimp tempura sushi typically contain around 540-660 calories. The exact calorie count depends on the size of the shrimp and amount of tempura batter used. On average, each piece contains 90-110 calories.
Calculating Calories in Shrimp Tempura Sushi
To determine the calories in shrimp tempura sushi, we need to look at the components:
Shrimp
The calories in shrimp can vary based on size. Here are some estimates for common sizes:
– Small (36-40 per pound): 30 calories per 3 oz
– Medium (26-30 per pound): 40 calories per 3 oz
– Large (16-20 per pound): 50 calories per 3 oz
For sushi, small or medium shrimp are commonly used. Assuming 2 oz (about 3-4 medium shrimp) per piece of sushi, that’s around 25-35 calories from the shrimp.
Tempura Batter
Tempura batter is made from flour, egg, and water. It adds a crispy coating when fried. The calorie count of the batter depends on how thick it is:
– Thin batter: Around 50 calories per oz
– Thick batter: Around 70 calories per oz
For sushi, a thin tempura batter is typically used. Assuming about 1 oz of batter per piece, that’s around 50 calories from the tempura coating.
Rice
Sushi rice provides a small amount of calories:
– 1/4 cup of sushi rice: Around 55 calories
– Rice in a piece of sushi: 15-20 calories
Seaweed
The nori seaweed wrap used in sushi has minimal calories – around 5-10 per piece.
Total Calories
Adding up the estimates for each component:
– Shrimp: 25-35 calories
– Tempura batter: 50 calories
– Rice: 15-20 calories
– Seaweed: 5-10 calories
The total calories per piece of shrimp tempura sushi is approximately:
**90-110 calories**
For 6 pieces, the total calorie count is:
**540-660 calories**
So in summary, 6 pieces of shrimp tempura sushi contain 540-660 calories, depending on the exact size of the ingredients.
Calories in Other Popular Sushi Rolls
To compare, here are the estimated calories for some other popular sushi rolls, per 6 piece order:
| Sushi Roll | Estimated Calories (6 pieces) |
|---|---|
| Salmon | 360-450 |
| Tuna | 400-500 |
| California (crab, avocado, cucumber) | 450-550 |
| Spicy Tuna | 430-550 |
| Shrimp Tempura | 540-660 |
| Rainbow (variety) | 550-700 |
| Dragon (eel, avocado) | 600-750 |
| Spider (soft shell crab) | 700-900 |
As you can see, the calories can vary quite a bit depending on the types of fish, vegetables, and preparation used. Shrimp tempura falls around the middle of the range.
Ways to Reduce Calories in Sushi
If you’re looking to cut calories for sushi, here are some tips:
Choose lean protein
– Opt for rolls filled with vegetables or lean proteins like tuna or salmon. These have fewer calories than fattier fish like eel or salmon roe.
Avoid fried
– Skip tempura or other deep fried rolls. The batter and frying significantly increases calories.
Watch the sauces
– Soy sauce, spicy mayo, and creamy sauces can be high in calories. Use sparingly or ask for sauce on the side.
Fill up on veggies
– Cucumber, avocado, and pickled veggies like ginger have minimal calories, so load up your rolls with produce.
Eat slowly
– It takes at least 20 minutes for your brain to register fullness. Eating slowly prevents overeating.
Have tea
– Sipping on unsweetened tea can help fill you up without adding calories.
Nutritional Benefits of Sushi
While sushi is relatively high in calories, it does have some nutritional upside when eaten in moderation:
Lean protein
– Fish provide high quality lean protein to help build muscle and repair cells.
Heart healthy fats
– The omega-3 fatty acids in fish like salmon and tuna promote heart health.
Vitamins and minerals
– Nori seaweed is packed with iodine, vitamin C, and fiber. Avocado provides vitamins B, C, E, and K.
Probiotics
– The vinegar used to make sushi rice has probiotics, which aid digestion.
Should You Eat Sushi if Trying to Lose Weight?
You can still enjoy sushi occasionally while trying to lose weight. Some tips:
– Stick to 1-2 rolls max per meal
– Split rolls or orders with a friend
– Balance it out with lighter meals the rest of the day
– Stay hydrated by drinking water and unsweetened tea
– Avoid fried or high calorie rolls and toppings
Moderation and balance are key. Sushi can be part of an overall healthy, calorie-controlled diet. Just be mindful of portions and ingredient choices.
Conclusion
6 pieces of shrimp tempura sushi contain about 540-660 calories. This calorie range is typical for a deep fried sushi roll filled with shrimp. To reduce calories, choose lighter sushi options such as rolls filled with vegetables and lean proteins. While sushi does have some nutritional benefits, be mindful of portions when trying to manage your weight. Overall, sushi can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a healthy, balanced diet.
