SUSHI ROLL: MAKI

Sushi Roll: Maki image

Provided by Robert Irvine : Food Network

Time 25m

Yield 6 servings of 12 rolls each

Number Of Ingredients 9

12 sheets nori (seaweed) approximately 5 by 7-inches
6 cups prepared vinegared sushi rice
1 tablespoon prepared wasabi
1/2 pound sushi grade salmon, cut into 12 (7-inch) long by 1/4-inch thick strips
1 English cucumber, peeled, seeds removed, and sliced into 12 (7-inch) long by 1/4-inch thick strips
6 scallions, white and tender green parts only, cut into 12 (7-inch) lengths
1 tablespoon cornstarch dissolved in 1 tablespoon water
Vinegared water, in which to dip knife
3 teaspoons tobiko (flying fish roe)

Steps:

Heat the nori enough to make it supple, at about 325 degrees F for 3 minutes. Place a sheet of nori on the bamboo mat with the wider part along the rolling edge of the mat. Spread 1/2 cup of the rice over the surface of the nori, leaving about 1/2-inch of nori on the furthest edge uncovered so you will be able to seal the roll. Press the rice down firmly but gently. Place a dab of wasabi - about 1/4 teaspoon - on your finger and spread a thin ribbon of wasabi from left to right along the centerline of the rice. On top of the line of wasabi, lay a length each of fish, cucumber, and scallion. Begin rolling the edge of the bamboo closest to you, using the mat to press down on the sushi roll firmly but gently as you roll. The nori should stick to itself when the roll is complete; if it doesn't, use the cornstarch slurry to moisten it. Dip a knife in vinegared water and cut the roll into 6 even slices. Repeat for each maki. Arrange the rolls cut side up on a plate and top each roll with 1/4 teaspoon tobiko.