KAPPA MAKI: REFRESHING VEGETARIAN CUCUMBER SUSHI WITH FURIKAKE
These cool, light cucumber sushi rolls are perfect for a summer picnic or any casual meal. The addition of furikake adds savory umami flavor to classic kappa maki.
π Prep Time: 40 min
π³ Cook Time: (for sushi rice preparation)
π° Yields: About 36 pieces (6 servings)
π₯ Ingredients
- 1 portion sushi rice (prepared following standard sushi rice instructions)
- 2 tbsp furikake seasoning
- 6 small garden cucumbers (julienned into thin sticks)
- 6 sheets nori seaweed
- Wasabi (to serve)
- Pickled ginger (to serve)
- Soy sauce (to serve)
π©βπ³ Instructions
- π Prepare sushi rice according to your preferred method, adding furikake at step 9 along with the sweetened vinegar to infuse flavor.
- π₯ Slice cucumbers lengthwise into thin julienne sticks.
- π Wrap a bamboo rolling mat with plastic wrap to prevent sticking.
- π₯’ Place one nori sheet on the mat with the rough side facing up.
- π Spread a thin, even layer of sushi rice over the nori, leaving a 2 cm margin at one edge free. Keep hands wet to prevent sticking.
- For smaller, bite-sized rolls, cut nori sheets in half for thinner rolls.
- π₯ Lay cucumber sticks along the edge opposite the free margin (about 1 cucumber per roll).
- π Use the bamboo mat to roll the sushi tightly from the cucumber side, pressing firmly to secure the roll, then continue rolling to the end.
- πͺ Using a very sharp knife, cut the roll in half, then cut each half into three pieces to yield 6 maki rolls per sheet.
- π Repeat with remaining rice and nori.
- πΏ Serve sprinkled with furikake, alongside wasabi, pickled ginger, and soy sauce for dipping.
π‘ Tips
- Keep your hands moist when handling sushi rice to avoid sticking.
- Use a sharp, wet knife for clean cuts.
- Wrap bamboo mats in plastic for easy cleanup and better rolling.
π Perfect For
- Summer picnics
- Light vegetarian meals
- Sushi parties and casual gatherings
π Final Thoughts
Kappa maki with cucumber and furikake offers a refreshing, simple sushi experience thatβs easy to prepare and delicious. The umami notes from furikake perfectly complement the crisp cucumber, making it an ideal choice for warm weather or light dining.