Sushi in a Flash – Hand Rolls

Article Written By: Marisa Baggett

Temaki, or hand rolls, are a great way to enjoy instant gratification sushi– roll, eat and repeat. The technique is easy and since temaki do not require the use of a bamboo rolling mat, many find that the technique is considerably less messy. Also, hand rolls offer the perfect excuse not to share for those who prefer to keep their sushi to themselves. The rolls are intended for consumption by a single individual, as they are *not cut into pieces before being served.

Here are three handy tips to consider when making temaki…

Stack your ingredients on your work surface before making each roll. When you’re working with just one hand, this makes it very easy to place the fillings inside your roll.

Allow fillings to overhang on the top and bottom of the nori. When the roll is finished, the ingredients will be visible from the top and fillings will extend to the bottom where there can often be a void of just seaweed and rice.

Eat right away. After about five minutes, the seaweed on the outside of the roll becomes tough and chewy making it difficult to take a bite. Hand rolls are best enjoyed when the seaweed is still crisp.

How to Make a Hand Roll Method for the Right Handed

How to Make a Hand Roll Method for the Left Handed

*Etiquette Note: When eating temaki in a sushi bar, please do not ask your sushi chef to cut hand rolls into pieces. Likewise, please do not take offense if your requests for rolls to be cut are denied. The purpose of this roll is to be eaten as it is made and the cutting of such a roll destroys its structure and presentation. If you prefer your sushi cut, please order rolls that are prepared as such.