What is a tuna roll called

It is known as tekka maki, a thin roll of tuna, rice, and nori that is a staple on any sushi menu.

Use sushi-grade or sashimi-grade tuna meant to be eaten raw. Keep it cold and cut it into long strips just before rolling.

How is it different from a spicy tuna roll

A tuna roll uses plain raw tuna with no sauce. A spicy tuna roll mixes diced tuna with sriracha mayo for heat.

Spread the rice thin, keep the tuna in a tight strip, and press the roll firmly through the mat before slicing.

Tuna Roll

Name: Tuna Roll
Prep time: 25 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 12 pieces
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 2 cups sushi rice, cooked and seasoned; 2 nori sheets; 6 ounces sushi-grade tuna, cut into long strips; 1 teaspoon wasabi paste; Soy sauce, for serving; Pickled ginger, for serving

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Sushi

Tuna Roll

A tuna roll, or tekka maki, is a slim roll of sushi-grade tuna wrapped in nori and rice. It is a clean, classic roll that lets the fish speak for itself. This recipe makes two rolls, about 12 pieces, in around 25 minutes once the rice is ready.

Prep25 min

Cook0 min

Total25 min

Serves2

Makes12 pieces

LevelMedium

Ingredients

2 cups sushi rice, cooked and seasoned
2 nori sheets
6 ounces sushi-grade tuna, cut into long strips
1 teaspoon wasabi paste
Soy sauce, for serving
Pickled ginger, for serving

Directions

Cut a nori sheet in half. Lay one half shiny side down on a bamboo mat.
With damp hands, spread a thin layer of rice over the nori, leaving a 1/2-inch strip bare at the top.
Smear a thin line of wasabi across the rice, then lay a strip of tuna across the lower third.
Lift the edge of the mat and roll away from you, pressing firmly to tuck the tuna tight. Seal the bare strip against the roll.
Wet a sharp knife and slice each roll into 6 pieces, cleaning the blade between cuts.
Serve with soy sauce and pickled ginger.

Tips and variations

Cut the tuna into long, even strips so it runs the length of the roll.
Keep the tuna cold until you cut it so it stays firm and slices clean.
A thin layer of rice keeps the roll slim, the way a classic tekka maki should be.
Use a half sheet of nori for an easy roll that is simple to slice.

Roll it at home with the Sushi Kit

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Common questions

What is a tuna roll called: It is known as tekka maki, a thin roll of tuna, rice, and nori that is a staple on any sushi menu.
What tuna do I use: Use sushi-grade or sashimi-grade tuna meant to be eaten raw. Keep it cold and cut it into long strips just before rolling.
How is it different from a spicy tuna roll: A tuna roll uses plain raw tuna with no sauce. A spicy tuna roll mixes diced tuna with sriracha mayo for heat.
Why is my roll loose: Spread the rice thin, keep the tuna in a tight strip, and press the roll firmly through the mat before slicing.