Sushi is one of my FAVORITE meals, but if you order omakase it can become quite an expensive dining habit. I’m lucky enough to live near an awesome Japanese supermarket (Mitsuwa) that sells great quality sashimi (raw fish). The fish isn’t cheap by any means, however, if you plan on going out for a sushi dinner with 3 or more people, it is waaaaay more cost effective to have a temaki party at home! Temaki (handrolls) parties are a fun, easy way to eat sushi at home for a fraction of the price. No need for any fancy equipment, below is a list of things you will need:
- Sashimi (PLEASE make sure to purchase from a reputable store!! Make sure it is sashimi grade fish)
- White sushi rice
- Sushi powder vinegar
- Imitation Crab
- Japanese Mayo
- Avocado cut into thin slices
- Scallions chopped
- Shiso chiffonaded
- Japanese Cucumber julienned
- Kaiware (Daikon radish sprouts)
- Nori (seaweed) cut into 5.5″ x 5.5″ squares
First, mix your hot rice with the sushi seasoning powder. If you’re feeling adventurous, feel free to season your rice with your own mix of vinegar, sugar and salt. When mixing the rice with the powder, make sure to “cut” the rice as you mix so as not to smash any of the grains.
Cut the imitation crab pieces in half and separate the strands into a bowl. Add Japanese mayo (add sriracha for a spicy kick!) and mix. Set aside.
Arrange your cut up vegetables on a large platter.
Cut your sashimi into thin slices and arrange on a separate platter.
My family and I usually have a couple of side dishes with our temaki. Pictured above, we have a side of Kinpira Gobou (recipe coming soon!) and Karaage (Japanese Fried Chicken). Make your own plate and voila! You and your guests are ready for your very own Temaki partay!
To assemble your own Temaki, place the seaweed in your hand, add a spoonful of sushi rice, a piece of fish, and vegetables of your choice. My favorite combination is toro (fatty tuna) with kaiware, scallions, and shiso. Yum!!
The beauty of hosting a Temaki party is that it is highly customizable to what fish and vegetables you and your guests prefer. My family always opts for Toro, Hamachi and Salmon. The vegetables listed above are always a must at our parties as well! Toro is usually my favorite piece at any sushi restaurant anyway and by having a Temaki party at home, I can eat several pieces without having to worry about the bill at the end 😛
What’s your favorite sashimi? Do you have DIY cooking parties at home? Please leave a comment, I would love to hear everyone’s suggestions!
FoodgasmTKY 