Futomaki

Futomaki is a type of sushi that consists of a thick, wide roll that can include a variety of ingredients. Below you will find a basic recipe for making traditional-style futomaki, but as a good Italian chef, I would suggest that you could also add more local ingredients, like grilled asparagus or finely cut prosciutto, to give the dish an Italian touch.

Ingredients

• 4 sheets of nori seaweed
• 320g of sushi rice
• 400ml of water
• 60ml of rice vinegar
• 2 teaspoons of sugar
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• Slices of avocado
• Slices of cucumber
• Surimi or crab sticks
• Fillets of tuna or salmon
• Toasted sesame seeds (optional)

Preparation

1. Start by cooking the sushi rice. Rinse the rice in cold water until the water runs clear. Place the rice and 400ml of water in a pot and bring to a boil. Then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes or until the water has been absorbed. Remove from heat and let rest for about 10-15 minutes.
2. While the rice is hot, mix the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt together and pour it over the rice. Gently mix to dress the rice evenly. Let it cool down.
3. Take a sheet of nori seaweed and lay it on a sushi mat with the shiny side down.
4. Spread an even layer of rice on about 3/4 of the nori sheet, leaving the far edge free.
5. Arrange strips of avocado, cucumber, surimi, and your chosen fish along the edge nearest to you.
6. Begin rolling using the mat to help you, lifting the edge of the nori and adhering it to the rice, then continue rolling while applying light pressure to seal the roll. Make sure not to roll the mat into it.
7. Dampen the free edge of the nori slightly to seal the roll.
8. Use a sharp, moistened knife to cut the roll into pieces about 2 cm thick. Clean and moisten the knife between cuts.
9. Sprinkle futomaki with toasted sesame seeds if desired before serving.

Curiosity

Futomaki is a very versatile dish and in Japan is often eaten during Setsubun Festival to bring good luck. Traditionally, various ingredients represent health, happiness, and prosperity. Depending on the regions of Japan, futomaki can vary significantly in ingredients and size.

Remember that sushi requires good technique and a respect for the freshness of the ingredients, especially when it comes to raw fish. And if you want to pair it with wine, look for something dry and aromatic, like a Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chardonnay.