Tekkamaki

Tekkamaki is a type of maki sushi, which is a Japanese dish consisting of rice and other ingredients rolled in seaweed. Specifically, tekkamaki is characterized by its filling of raw tuna. The name "tekka" refers to the red color of the tuna, reminiscent of the color found in traditional Japanese playing cards.

The preparation of tekkamaki involves spreading a layer of seasoned sushi rice onto a sheet of nori, a dried seaweed. Thin strips of raw, high-quality tuna are then placed lengthwise on the rice. The nori and its contents are then carefully rolled into a cylindrical shape using a bamboo mat called a makisu. Once rolled, the cylinder is sliced into bite-sized pieces, typically six to eight.

Tekkamaki is a popular choice in sushi restaurants worldwide due to its simplicity and the distinct flavor of the raw tuna. It is often served with soy sauce, pickled ginger (gari), and wasabi. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the freshness and taste of the tuna to be the primary focus of the dish. While most commonly made with raw tuna, some variations might use cooked tuna, though this is less traditional. The preparation requires fresh, sushi-grade tuna to ensure safety and optimal flavor.