Makizushi Sushi Rolls

Makizushi, or rolled sushi, is a beloved Japanese dish that has gained popularity worldwide, including in the UK. It consists of vinegared rice and various fillings, all wrapped in a sheet of seaweed called nori. The name “Makizushi” comes from the Japanese words “maki,” meaning “to roll,” and “zushi,” which is a variation of “sushi.”

One of the reasons Makizushi is so popular is its vibrant and visually appealing presentation. The rolls are sliced into bite-sized pieces, revealing a colourful array of ingredients. This makes it not only a delight to eat but also a feast for the eyes.

Versatile and Customisable

Makizushi is incredibly versatile, allowing for endless combinations of ingredients. Traditional fillings often include fresh fish like tuna, salmon, and crab. For those who prefer cooked options, teriyaki chicken or grilled eel are delicious alternatives. Vegetarians can enjoy fillings such as avocado, cucumber, pickled radish, and sweet potato. A touch of wasabi and a sprinkling of sesame seeds can add an extra layer of flavour.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you are hosting a dinner party, packing a picnic, or simply enjoying a quiet meal at home, Makizushi is a perfect choice. It’s fun to make and even more fun to eat. The rolling process can be a social activity, bringing friends and family together in the kitchen.

Health Benefits

Makizushi is not only tasty but also healthy. The combination of fish, vegetables, and rice provides a balanced meal rich in nutrients. Fish, particularly oily varieties like salmon, is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. Vegetables add essential vitamins and fibre, while the rice offers a good source of energy.

For those new to making Makizushi, many supermarkets in the UK now offer sushi kits that include all the basics, such as nori sheets, sushi rice, and a rolling mat. You can then get creative with your fillings. Some popular combinations to try include salmon and avocado, cucumber and crab sticks, or a veggie mix of carrots, cucumber, and avocado.

Makizushi is a delightful dish that brings a taste of Japan to your table. Its versatility, visual appeal, and health benefits make it a fantastic choice for any meal. So why not roll up your sleeves and give it a try?

Makizushi Sushi Rolls

Makizushi, a traditional Japanese rolled sushi, is a vibrant and delicious dish made with vinegared rice, nori, and a variety of fresh fillings. This recipe is easy to follow and perfect for creating an impressive meal for family and friends.

4.85 from 38 votes

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Course: Canapes, Main Dish, Side Dish, Starter

Cuisine: Japanese

Keyword: Rice, Salmon, Vegetables, Vegetarian

Prep Time: 45 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes minutes

Total Time: 1 hour hour 5 minutes minutes

Servings: 4 People

Calories: 533kcal

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Ingredients

 

MetricImperial

Sushi Rice:

• 2 cups sushi rice
• 2 1/2 cups water
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt

Makizushi:

• 4 sheet nori seaweed
• 200 g salmon or tuna sashimi grade, sliced into thin strips
• 1 medium ripe avocado sliced
• 1 medium cucumber julienned
• 1 medium carrot julienned
• 4 large crab sticks sliced into thin strips (optional)
• soy sauce for dipping
• Wasabi
• pickled ginger for serving

Instructions

• Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
  2 cups sushi rice
• Combine the rice and water in a rice cooker or pot. Cook according to the rice cooker’s instructions or bring to a boil, then cover and simmer on low for about 20 minutes until the water is absorbed.
  2 1/2 cups water
• In a small saucepan, heat the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt over low heat until the sugar dissolves. Do not boil.
  1/4 cup rice vinegar, 2 tbsp sugar, 1 tsp salt
• Transfer the cooked rice to a large bowl. Gently fold in the vinegar mixture with a spatula, ensuring the rice is evenly coated. Let the rice cool to room temperature.
• Place a bamboo sushi rolling mat on a clean surface. Lay a sheet of nori, shiny side down, on the mat.
  4 sheet nori
• Wet your hands with water to prevent the rice from sticking. Spread a thin, even layer of sushi rice over the nori, leaving about 2cm at the top edge.
• Arrange your chosen fillings (fish, avocado, cucumber, carrot, crab sticks) in a line across the centre of the rice.
  200 g salmon, 1 medium ripe avocado, 1 medium cucumber, 1 medium carrot, 4 large crab sticks
• Carefully lift the edge of the mat closest to you and begin rolling the nori and rice over the fillings, applying gentle pressure to form a tight roll. Continue rolling until you reach the exposed edge of the nori. Seal the roll by pressing gently.
• Using a sharp knife, slice the roll into 6-8 bite-sized pieces. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.
• Arrange the sliced Makizushi on a serving platter.
• Serve with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger on the side.
  soy sauce, Wasabi, pickled ginger

Nutrition

Calories: 533kcal | Carbohydrates: 88g | Protein: 18g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Cholesterol: 28mg | Sodium: 634mg | Potassium: 687mg | Fiber: 7g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 2807IU | Vitamin C: 9mg | Calcium: 42mg | Iron: 2mg