For the preparation of rolls, a bamboo mat or mat - Makisu is traditionally used. Despite the fact that this is an inexpensive accessory, it is sometimes difficult to find on sale. However, you don’t need to be upset because of this - you can cook rolls without a mat, using improvised means.
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Sushi cooks traditionally use bamboo mats to make beautiful rolls. A home cook who does not have special tools for Japanese dishes should find alternative ways to process the ingredients.
The best solution to replace the roll and sushi mat is with a regular kitchen towel and plastic cling film.
How to cook rolls without a mat
To prepare sushi in this way, spread a towel on the work surface and cover it with a sheet of plastic cling film.
Lay out the nori sheets on a baking sheet and heat them in the oven for 1-2 minutes at a temperature of 300 degrees. This will make them more ductile. Place one of the warmed sheets with the shiny side down on the cling film over the towel.
Spread 3/4 cup boiled rice on the nori so that it covers the entire surface with a thin layer, except for two edges, leaving strips about 2.5 cm wide. Add the filling in the center of the rice layer, parallel to the two empty edges.
Grasp one empty end with a kitchen towel and pull it along with the film to the filling line. Correct the roll so that the filling is covered with rice and nori, and roll the sheet to the end, applying a little pressure. As soon as the roll is twisted, gently press it with your hands through the towel. Once you are sure that the roll is firmly formed, remove the towel and gently peel off the cling film.