Sushi mat

Sushi Mat

A sushi mat, also known as a makisu, is a mat woven from bamboo and cotton string that is used in the preparation of sushi.

History

The sushi mat has a long history in Japanese cuisine, dating back to the 8th century. It was originally used to shape sushi rice and fish into a cylindrical form, a style of sushi known as maki sushi or rolled sushi.

Design and Use

The sushi mat is typically made up of thin, flat bamboo sticks that are woven together with cotton string. The mat is flexible, allowing it to be rolled and unrolled easily. This flexibility is crucial in the process of making sushi, as it allows the chef to tightly roll the sushi ingredients into a cylindrical shape.

To use a sushi mat, a sheet of nori (seaweed) is placed on the mat, followed by a layer of sushi rice. The desired fillings are then placed on top of the rice, and the mat is used to roll the ingredients into a tight cylinder. The mat is then unrolled, leaving a perfectly formed sushi roll.

Variations

While the traditional sushi mat is made from bamboo, there are also variations made from silicone or plastic. These are often preferred for their ease of cleaning and durability. However, many sushi chefs still prefer the traditional bamboo mat for its flexibility and the authentic feel it gives to the sushi-making process.

Care and Maintenance

Sushi mats require proper care to ensure their longevity. After each use, the mat should be washed with warm water and a mild detergent, then dried thoroughly to prevent mold and mildew. Bamboo sushi mats should not be put in the dishwasher, as the heat and water can warp the bamboo and cause the mat to lose its shape.

See Also

• Sushi
• Japanese cuisine
• Maki sushi
• Nori