When looking for tasty dish that uses only the freshest ingredients available, you can't go wrong with sushi. Maki is a common preparation that incorporates several ingredients into one delicious roll. If you're interested in trying maki sushi, this guide goes over the basics.

How Does Maki Differ from Other Types of Sushi?

When most people think of sushi, they're thinking of maki rolls. Ingredients are placed in the middle of a layer of rice, then rolled in nori (seaweed), and cut into bite-sized pieces. Nigiri is another popular preparation in which thinly sliced raw or cooked fish is placed over a portion of rice. While not a type of sushi, sashimi is also associated with it; the raw sliced fish is often served alongside maki and nigiri. 

What Are The Different Types of Maki?

Maki types vary depending on the number of ingredients in the center. One ingredient is used for hosomaki. When two to three ingredients are included, like in the popular California roll, you're eating nakamaki. Futomaki contains four to five ingredients. Some maki is rolled into a convenient cone shape, which is called temaki, and can be held by hand. 

What Ingredients Are Used?

To make sushi rice, a short-grain variety is cooked with sugar, salt, and vinegar. Nori wraps around the roll, either under or on top of the rice, and maintains its structure. While many maki preparations use raw fish for the filling, cooked fish is also common. Other fillings include cucumber, green onion, peppers, avocado, and pickled vegetables. 

If you're craving maki sushi in Hilo, HI, head to Kawamoto Store. For more than 70 years, they've provided delicious Japanese and Hawaiian dishes to locals and visitors. Along with their catering service, which can accommodate 100 or more guests, they offer quick bites for breakfast and lunch. Check out their menu online before you visit, or call (808) 935-8209 to place an order.