Japanese > Sushi

Matcha Date Maki Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup sushi rice
- 1 1/4 cups water
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 4 sheets of nori
- 1/4 cup matcha powder
- 1/4 cup hot water
- 8 pitted dates, sliced lengthwise
- Soy sauce for dipping

Special Equipment Needed:
- Bamboo sushi mat
- Rice cooker

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Rinse the sushi rice in a fine mesh strainer until the water runs clear. Add the rice and 1 1/4 cups of water to the rice cooker and cook according to the manufacturer's instructions.

2. In a small saucepan, combine the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Heat over low heat until the sugar dissolves.

3. When the rice is done cooking, transfer it to a large bowl. Add the vinegar mixture to the rice and stir gently to combine. Let the rice cool to room temperature.

4. In a small bowl, whisk together the matcha powder and hot water until smooth.

5. Lay a sheet of nori on the bamboo sushi mat with the shiny side facing down. Spread a thin layer of rice over the nori, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.

6. Spread a thin layer of the matcha paste over the rice.

7. Place 2 slices of dates in a line across the center of the rice.

8. Use the bamboo mat to roll the sushi tightly, starting at the bottom and rolling away from you. Use the border of rice at the top to seal the roll.

9. Repeat with the remaining nori, rice, matcha paste, and dates.

10. Slice each roll into 8 pieces and serve with soy sauce for dipping.


Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
Room temperature
Serving size:
32 pieces

Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 45
Fat: 0.2g
Carbohydrates: 10.1g
Protein: 0.7g
Sodium: 66mg
Sugar: 3.7g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Brown rice can be used instead of sushi rice.
- Agave nectar can be used instead of sugar.
- Medjool dates can be used instead of regular dates.

Variations:
- Add sliced avocado to the rolls.
- Use mango instead of dates.
- Add a layer of cream cheese to the rolls.

Tips and Tricks:
- Wet your hands with water before handling the rice to prevent it from sticking.
- Use a sharp knife to slice the rolls.
- Serve the rolls with pickled ginger and wasabi for extra flavor.

Storage Instructions:
Store leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheating Instructions:
The rolls can be eaten cold or at room temperature. Do not microwave the rolls as this will make the nori soggy.

Presentation Ideas:
Arrange the rolls on a platter and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.

Garnishes:
- Sliced green onions
- Sesame seeds

Pairings:
- Miso soup
- Edamame
- Seaweed salad

Suggested Side Dishes:
- Steamed vegetables
- Grilled shrimp
- Teriyaki chicken

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the rice is too dry, add a little more water.
- If the rolls are too loose, use more rice to make them tighter.
- If the rolls are too tight, use less rice.

Food Safety Advice:
- Use clean hands and utensils when handling the ingredients.
- Store the rolls in the refrigerator and consume within 2 days.

Food History:
Maki sushi, or sushi rolls, originated in Japan in the early 20th century. They were originally made with pickled vegetables and were a way to make sushi more portable.

Flavor Profiles:
The matcha paste adds a slightly bitter and earthy flavor to the rolls, while the dates add a sweet and chewy texture.

Serving Suggestions:
Serve the rolls as an appetizer or as part of a sushi platter.

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Region: Japanese

Taste: Sweet, Nutty, Earthy, Creamy