Description
Tobiko sushi, also known as gunkan maki, is a classic Japanese dish featuring flying fish roe wrapped in nori and placed atop seasoned sushi rice. This simple yet elegant recipe delivers a balance of flavors and textures, making it a great choice for sushi lovers. Serve it as an appetizer or part of a sushi platter for an impressive homemade sushi experience.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup sushi rice, cooked and seasoned with rice vinegar, sugar, and salt
- 4 strips nori (seaweed), cut into 2-inch-wide strips
- ½ cup tobiko (flying fish roe)
Optional Garnishes:
- Wasabi
- Pickled ginger
- Soy sauce
Instructions
1. Prepare the Sushi Rice
- Cook 1 cup of sushi rice according to the package instructions.
- In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and ½ teaspoon of salt until dissolved.
- Gently fold the vinegar mixture into the warm rice using a wooden spatula. Let the rice cool to room temperature.
2. Shape the Rice
- Wet your hands with water to prevent the rice from sticking.
- Take about 1 tablespoon of rice and shape it into a small, oval ball. Ensure it is compact yet light enough to hold its shape.
3. Wrap with Nori
- Take a strip of nori and wrap it around the rice ball, forming a small “boat” with the rice at the bottom.
- Press the edges of the nori together to seal, using a dab of water if needed.
4. Add the Tobiko
- Using a small spoon, carefully scoop tobiko into the open top of the nori-wrapped rice.
- Fill generously to create a slight mound for a visually appealing presentation.
5. Garnish and Serve
- Arrange the gunkan maki on a serving platter.
- Serve with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger.
- Optionally, top with a small amount of wasabi or microgreens for decoration.
Notes
- Keep hands wet while shaping rice to prevent sticking.
- Use fresh tobiko and nori for the best taste and texture.
- Arrange the sushi neatly on a plate for an elegant presentation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Sushi
- Method: Hand-rolled
- Cuisine: Japanese
Keywords: tobiko sushi, gunkan maki, flying fish roe sushi, homemade sushi, Japanese appetizer