Authentic and Easy-to-Follow Gunkan Maki Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 cups of sushi rice
  • 3 sheets of nori (seaweed sheets)
  • 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon of sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon of salt
  • 150g of fresh fish (like tuna, salmon, or prawns)
  • 1 tablespoon of wasabi paste
  • 1 cucumber (thinly sliced)
  • 2 tablespoons of soy sauce for serving
  • Pickled ginger for serving

Steps and instructions

  1. Wash the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes the excess starch from the rice.
  2. Cook the sushi rice according to the package instructions then let it cool.
  3. In a small bowl, mix together the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Once the rice has cooled, gently fold in this vinegar mixture. Be careful not to crush or break the rice grains.
  4. Cut the nori sheets into strips that are about 1.5 inches wide and 4 inches long. You should have about 12 strips.
  5. Form small oval shapes with the rice (about the size of your thumb) and wrap a nori strip around each one. The nori should come up to about half the height of the rice. Make sure the ends of the nori are overlapping at the top and dab a bit of water to seal the ends together.
  6. Slice your chosen fish into long thin strips.
  7. Place a small amount of wasabi on top of the rice, then place a slice of fish on top of the wasabi.
  8. Garnish the top with a thin slice of cucumber.
  9. Repeat the process until you run out of ingredients.
  10. Serve with soy sauce and pickled ginger on the side.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Use different types of fish such as yellowtail, mackerel, or eel.
  • Replace the fish with cooked shrimp or crab meat.
  • Try adding avocado slices or mango for a fruity twist.
  • Experiment with different flavored nori sheets, like sesame or wasabi-flavored.
  • Use a different type of rice, such as brown rice or quinoa, for a healthier option.
  • Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds or furikake (Japanese seasoning) for extra flavor.
  • Instead of using fish, make vegetarian Gunkan Maki using ingredients like marinated tofu, pickled vegetables, or cooked egg slices.
  • Drizzle a sauce like spicy mayo or eel sauce over the Gunkan Maki for added flavor.
  • Roll the rice in a different outer layer, such as thinly sliced cucumber or soy paper, for a unique twist.
  • Add a dollop of cream cheese or a slice of jalapeno for a fusion-style Gunkan Maki.

Recipe overview

Gunkan Maki, also known as "battleship sushi," is a type of sushi that originated in Japan. It's characterized by its unique shape, resembling a small ship. This recipe takes you step-by-step through the process of creating this delicious and visually stunning dish at home. You'll be using a combination of fresh fish, sushi rice, and nori seaweed, topped off with a zesty kick of wasabi and the refreshing crunch of cucumber. It's a versatile recipe, allowing you to switch up the fish or toppings according to your preference. Serving Gunkan Maki with a side of soy sauce and pickled ginger will complete this traditional sushi experience. Whether you're a sushi enthusiast looking to try something new or someone seeking a fun and artistic culinary project, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Enjoy the process and the tasty results!

Common questions

  1. How do I choose the right fish for Gunkan Maki?
    When selecting fish for Gunkan Maki, it's important to choose fresh, sushi-grade fish. Popular choices include tuna, salmon, and prawns. Look for fish that has a bright color, firm texture, and a fresh oceanic smell.
  2. Can I use other fillings besides fish?
    Absolutely! While traditional Gunkan Maki uses fish as the filling, you can get creative and use other ingredients such as cooked crab meat, avocado, or even marinated tofu. Feel free to experiment with different flavors and textures.
  3. How do I prevent the rice from sticking to my hands?
    To prevent the rice from sticking to your hands, keep a small bowl of water nearby. Wetting your hands with water before handling the rice will help prevent sticking. You can also lightly coat your hands with a bit of rice vinegar to make it easier to work with the rice.
  4. Can I make Gunkan Maki in advance?
    While Gunkan Maki is best enjoyed fresh, you can make them in advance if needed. However, it is important to keep in mind that the nori may become slightly soft when refrigerated. If you do make them ahead of time, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 24 hours for the best taste and texture.
  5. Is Gunkan Maki gluten-free?
    The main ingredients of Gunkan Maki, such as sushi rice, nori, and fish, are typically gluten-free. However, some soy sauce brands may contain gluten. If you require a gluten-free option, make sure to choose a gluten-free soy sauce or use tamari sauce instead.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Sushi mat - A bamboo mat used for rolling sushi. It helps to shape the Gunkan Maki properly.
  • Sharp knife - A sharp knife is essential for slicing the fish and other ingredients with precision.
  • Cutting board - Use a cutting board to slice the fish and vegetables.
  • Bowl of water - A bowl of water is useful for wetting your hands to prevent the rice from sticking.
  • Spoon or spatula - You will need a spoon or spatula to mix the vinegar mixture into the rice gently.
  • Small bowl - Use a small bowl to mix the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt together.
  • Serving plate - A plate or platter to arrange and serve the Gunkan Maki.
  • Chopsticks - Chopsticks are commonly used to eat sushi, including Gunkan Maki.

Origin stories

Gunkan Maki, whose name means 'battleship roll', made its first appearance in the 1940s in a sushi restaurant in Ginza, Tokyo. The chef wanted to offer a form of sushi that could hold more topping than traditional sushi rolls. He thought of creating a vessel, or ship, made out of rice and seaweed where the metaphorical 'cargo'—fish, seafood, or other ingredients—could be loaded. In a way, the creation of Gunkan Maki symbolizes the innovative spirit of Japanese cuisine and continues to be a beloved form of sushi around the world. Whether you prefer yours with fish, caviar, or even just vegetables, Gunkan Maki proves that sometimes, a simple change in presentation can revolutionize how we enjoy our food.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.