Maki (noun) – [ˈmɑːki]
Origin: The word “Maki” comes from Japanese and means “to roll” or “to wrap”. In a culinary context, maki refers to a form of sushi that is a roll of rice, seaweed, and various fillings.
Meaning: Maki is a common type of sushi that consists of rice that has been seasoned with vinegar, surrounded by nori (dried seaweed) and filled with a variety of ingredients such as raw or cooked fish, vegetables, and sometimes tropical fruits. The rice and fillings are rolled into the nori sheets and then cut into bite-sized pieces. There are different types of maki depending on how they are rolled and cut, including hosomaki, futomaki, and uramaki.
Usage:
- Culinary dish
- Japanese cuisine
- Sushi variant
Example sentences:
- For lunch, she ordered a platter of various maki, including cucumber, tuna, and avocado rolls.
- For beginners in Japanese cuisine, maki is often an entry point because it’s less intimidating than raw fish.
Maki is a staple in the world of Japanese cuisine and is often offered in sushi restaurants. Preparing maki requires dexterity and practice, as the rolls need to be firm enough to hold their shape, but not so tight that the rice is crushed. Often, maki is served as part of a larger sushi meal, along with other varieties such as nigiri and sashimi.
Synonyms:
- Sushi Roll
- Nori Roll
Note: Maki sushi is prized in Japanese cuisine for its versatility and ability to showcase a wide range of tastes and textures. There are numerous varieties of maki, differing in size, shape, and filling. Among the most famous is the California roll, an uramaki roll in which the rice is on the outside and the nori on the inside, filled with crab meat, cucumber and avocado. Another popular variation is the tempura maki, in which one of the filling elements, usually shrimp or vegetables, is deep-fried in a light batter and then rolled. Maki can also be vegetarian, with fillings of pickled radish, cucumber or avocado.
Maki plays a central role in Japanese gastronomy and reflects the Japanese aesthetic that emphasizes presentation and seasonal ingredients. Although it originated in Japan, maki has gained worldwide popularity and is offered in various forms in sushi restaurants around the world. It is a testament to the global appeal of Japanese cuisine and its ability to adapt to different tastes and preferences.
