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Home » Rice Cooking Tips

Maki Sushi Vs Handroll

Jun 12, 2024 · Modified: Sep 17, 2025 by Emily · Leave a Comment

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Dive into the delicious debate of maki sushi vs handroll!

Discover the subtle yet significant differences between these two beloved Japanese delicacies.

From their distinct shapes to their unique flavors, explore the world of sushi like never before.

Sushi on a slate board.
Jump to:
  • What is Maki?
  • Types of Maki
  • What is a Handroll?
  • What is the Difference Between Maki and Hand Roll?
  • What is the Difference Between Sushi and Maki?
  • 7 Delicious Sushi Recipes
  • More Mains Recipes
  • Recipe
  • Comments

In the world of Japanese cuisine, maki sushi and handrolls stand as two distinct yet equally delicious options.

Maki sushi, known for its cylindrical shape, features a combination of ingredients wrapped in nori seaweed and rice, offering a delightful balance of flavors in every bite.

On the other hand, handrolls, also known as temaki, boast a cone-like shape with ingredients wrapped in nori seaweed but without the cylindrical form of maki.

While both offer a delicious combination of flavors, their differences in presentation and texture create a delightful contrast worth savoring.

Whether you're a sushi aficionado or a newcomer to Japanese cuisine, get ready to explore the differences between maki sushi and handrolls.

What is Maki?

Maki is a type of sushi that consists of ingredients such as raw fish, vegetables, and rice, rolled together in seaweed (nori).

The roll is typically sliced into bite-sized pieces, creating cylindrical shapes.

Maki can vary in ingredients and fillings, offering a wide range of flavors and textures.

It's a popular choice in Japanese cuisine and is enjoyed both in traditional sushi bars and modern eateries worldwide.

Types of Maki

These are some of the most common types of maki:

  • Chumaki: Chumaki, or "medium rolls," are a type of sushi roll characterized by their smaller size compared to futomaki. They typically contain one or two ingredients rolled tightly in nori (seaweed) and rice.
  • Futomaki: Futomaki, or "thick rolls," are larger sushi rolls that contain a variety of ingredients such as fish, vegetables, and sometimes even egg, all wrapped in a layer of nori and rice. They are often sliced into smaller pieces for serving.
  • Inside Maki Rolls: Inside maki rolls refer to sushi rolls where the filling, usually fish or vegetables, is placed inside the rice and then wrapped in nori. These rolls offer a burst of flavor with each bite and can feature various combinations of ingredients.
  • Uramaki (Inside Out Maki Rolls): Uramaki, also known as inside-out rolls, are sushi rolls where the rice is on the outside and the nori is on the inside, surrounding the filling. They are often coated with sesame seeds, fish roe, or other toppings for added flavor and texture.
  • Temaki (Hand Roll): Temaki, or hand rolls, are cone-shaped sushi rolls made by wrapping nori around a filling of rice, fish, vegetables, and other ingredients. They are designed to be eaten with the hands and are often enjoyed as a quick and convenient snack or meal.
  • Hosomaki: Hosomaki, or "thin rolls," are sushi rolls made with a single filling, such as fish or cucumber, wrapped in nori and rice. They are typically smaller in size compared to other types of maki and are often served as part of a larger sushi assortment.

What is a Handroll?

A handroll, also known as temaki in Japanese cuisine, is a type of sushi where the ingredients are wrapped in seaweed (nori) into a cone shape.

Unlike traditional sushi rolls, which are sliced into bite-sized pieces, handrolls are meant to be eaten with your hands.

They typically consist of rice, fish or seafood, vegetables, and sometimes other fillings like avocado or cucumber.

Handrolls offer a convenient and portable way to enjoy sushi, with the nori providing a crisp texture and the fillings delivering a burst of flavor in each bite.

Pieces of sushi on a plate.

What is the Difference Between Maki and Hand Roll?

The main difference between maki and hand rolls lies in their shape and eating style.

Maki

Maki is cylindrical in shape and typically cut into bite-sized pieces. It's made by rolling ingredients in seaweed (nori) with rice, forming a tight cylinder.


Hand Roll

Hand Roll, also known as Temaki, is cone-shaped and meant to be eaten with the hands. It's made by wrapping nori around ingredients like rice, fish, and vegetables, resembling an ice cream cone.

While both Maki and Hand Roll contain similar ingredients, their presentation and eating methods distinguish them from each other.

What is the Difference Between Sushi and Maki?

Sushi is a broader term encompassing various forms of Japanese cuisine, while Maki is a specific type of sushi.

Sushi

Sushi refers to a dish consisting of vinegared rice combined with other ingredients like raw fish (sashimi), vegetables, and sometimes seaweed. It can be served in various forms, including Maki, Nigiri (rice topped with fish), and Sashimi (sliced raw fish without rice).

Maki

Maki specifically refers to sushi rolls made by wrapping rice, fish, and vegetables in seaweed (nori) and slicing them into bite-sized pieces.

In essence, maki is a type of sushi, with sushi encompassing a broader range of dishes beyond just rolled varieties.

Sushi on a plate.

7 Delicious Sushi Recipes

1. Hosomaki

Hosomaki sushi on a plate.

Hosomaki is a delightful Japanese sushi roll that's easy to make at home.

With a slender shape and a tasty filling wrapped in nori and rice, it's perfect for beginners to try their hand at sushi-making.

Whether you're craving a classic cucumber filling or feeling adventurous with avocado or tuna, hosomaki offers endless possibilities.

Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into the world of homemade sushi with hosomaki!

Hosomaki

2. California Sushi Roll Recipe

Sushi on a wooden board.

Indulge in the iconic flavors of the West Coast with this California sushi roll recipe.

Filled with creamy avocado, crisp cucumber, and succulent crab meat, this roll is a crowd-pleaser for sushi lovers of all ages.

The combination of flavors and textures creates a harmonious bite that will tantalize your taste buds.

Don't wait for your next sushi night out-bring the taste of California to your kitchen and impress your friends and family with this homemade delight!

California Sushi Roll Recipe

3. Canned Tuna Sushi Recipe

Sushi on a wooden board.

Shake up your sushi game with this canned tuna sushi recipe that proves delicious sushi doesn't have to break the bank.

With simple ingredients like canned tuna, rice, and nori, you can create a flavorful and satisfying roll in no time.

Whether you're a sushi novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe is sure to impress.

Say goodbye to expensive sushi takeout and hello to homemade goodness with this budget-friendly and delicious canned tuna sushi!

Canned Tuna Sushi Recipe

4. Spicy Tuna Sushi

Tuna sushi on a white plate.

Turn up the heat with this spicy tuna sushi recipe that packs a flavorful punch.

Made with tender tuna mixed with spicy mayo and wrapped in nori and rice, this roll is a spicy sushi lover's dream.

The creamy texture of the mayo balances perfectly with the bold flavor of the tuna, creating a mouthwatering combination that will leave you craving more.

Don't be afraid to add an extra kick of spice to suit your taste.

Spice up your sushi night with this irresistible spicy tuna roll!

Spicy Tuna Sushi

5. California Hand Roll (Keto Friendly)

Dive into the fresh flavors of a california hand roll, perfect for those on a keto diet.

This easy-to-make roll combines crisp cucumber, creamy avocado, and succulent crab meat, all wrapped in nori seaweed.

It's a delicious, low-carb alternative to traditional sushi, ensuring you can enjoy a satisfying and healthy meal without compromising on taste.

Try making these at home for a fun and tasty keto-friendly treat that's sure to impress!

California Hand Roll (Keto Friendly)

6. Tuna Hand Rolls

Enjoy a quick and delicious meal with tuna hand rolls using canned tuna.

This simple recipe brings together the savory taste of tuna with crunchy veggies, all wrapped in nori seaweed.

It's a great option for a light lunch or snack that's both healthy and satisfying.

Perfect for busy days, these hand rolls are easy to prepare and packed with flavor, making them a must-try for any tuna lover.

Tuna Hand Rolls

7. Salmon Hand Rolls

Treat yourself to the fresh and flavorful taste of salmon hand rolls.

These rolls feature tender salmon paired with crisp vegetables, all neatly wrapped in nori seaweed.

Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, they are both delicious and nutritious.

Easy to make at home, salmon hand rolls offer a delightful way to enjoy sushi-style dining without the hassle.

Try them out for a healthy and satisfying meal that's sure to please!

Salmon Hand Rolls
Close up image of sushi on a slate board.

More Mains Recipes

  • What Is Mochiko?
  • Garlic Fried Rice Recipe
  • Rice Recipes With Sausages
  • Korean Tuna Rice Bowl
  • Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipes
  • Pumpkin Rice Recipe

Recipe

Close up image of pieces of sushi.

Maki Sushi Vs Handroll

Emily
After some easy to make maki sushi or handroll recipes?
Well, we've come up with a collection of easy to make sushi recipes just for you.
PRINT RECIPE PIN RECIPE
Prep Time 20 minutes mins
Cook Time 15 minutes mins
Rest Time 15 minutes mins
Total Time 50 minutes mins
ESTIMATED COST : $3.97, or $0.75 a sushi roll
Course Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine Japanese
Servings 5 sushi rolls
Calories 76 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1. Hosomaki
  • 2. California Sushi Roll Recipe
  • 3. Canned Tuna Sushi Recipe
  • 4. Spicy Tuna Sushi
  • 5. California Hand Roll (Keto Friendly)
  • 6. Tuna Hand Rolls
  • 7. Salmon Hand Rolls

Instructions
 

  • Choose your favorite recipe from the list above.
  • Gather all the ingredients.
  • Follow the recipe directions and make a delicious sushi recipe today.

Notes

Nutrition, serving size and cook times are based on the first recipe on the recipe card.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 rollCalories: 76kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 6gSodium: 516mgPotassium: 44mgSugar: 1g
Nutrition Disclosure
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it went!

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Hi, I'm Emily! There's much more to rice than just cooking it on the stove. It's so versatile and you can create so many beautiful dishes with it. From puddings and desserts to main meals and even finger foods. There is something for everyone!

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