A sushi mat, or makisu, is a traditional Japanese bamboo tool used to roll sushi into its iconic cylindrical shape. The flexibility of the bamboo allows for precise control over the pressure applied during the rolling process, ensuring that the sushi holds its shape without squishing the filling. Sushi chefs often rely on the makisu to create perfectly formed rolls, whether they're making classic maki rolls or more intricate variations like inside-out rolls or dragon rolls. We've compiled a list of the best sushi mats, and the Delamu Sushi Making Kit is our favorite because of its high-quality bamboo, long length, and additional sushi-making tools included in the kit!
A top sushi rolling mat will help you make flawless sushi rolls with all the ingredients intact. However, choosing the right mat is difficult. We’ve prepared a complete buyer’s guide to help you make your decision. Considering factors such as size, material, and price, we’ll help you narrow in on your perfect sushi rolling mat for your next party. Before you know it, you’ll be mastering the art of making perfect sushi rolls for friends and family!
Factors That Make (Or Break) A Sushi Mat
Components
We recommend considering the number of items you would like to have in your sushi making kit. Some sushi making kits come with two mats and chopsticks while others come with sushi mats, a paddle, a spreader, and chopsticks. If you already own a paddle, spreader, and chopsticks, then it would be wise to invest only in the sushi mat. However, if you’re just getting started making sushi and you don’t own these accessories, we recommend choosing a set or kit that includes all of the necessary components.
Size
The size of your sushi rolls will depend on the mat size. Usually, sushi rolling mats are nine inches long and seven inches wide. If you want to make small rolls with a standard thickness, we recommend choosing a smaller-sized mat. However, if you’d like to make thick, restaurant-style sushi rolls with a variety of ingredients, you should invest in a larger sushi mat, which will help you roll the ingredients more easily.
Mat binding
Sushi mats are made from bamboo sticks and tied together using cotton threads. However, there are some cheaper options that might use glue to bind the bamboo. We recommend choosing a thread-bonded mat to ensure your food is free from contaminants and toxins.
Rice spreader
The rice spreader will help you spread sticky rice easily over the mat and maintain an even thickness. Therefore, make sure that your chosen kit has a long spreader made from bamboo, which will allow you to efficiently spread the rice. Plus, if you choose a bamboo spreader (over a plastic spreader, for instance) it will be longer lasting.
Rice paddle
For mixing the sticky rice with vinegar, you will need a rice paddle. We recommend choosing a sushi rolling kit that includes a bamboo paddle with enough length and hardness that will allow you to easily mix a large amount of rice with the vinegar or sauce. Also, be sure to check whether the paddle has any chemical or varnish coating on its surface; this chemical will contaminate the food and could harm your health.
Durability
When choosing the right sushi mat for your kitchen, make sure the product is durable and long-lasting. All the components should be made from a strong, sturdy material (like bamboo) so that you can use them repeatedly for years without having to buy another set.
Why Are Bamboo Sushi Mats Better Than Plastic or Wooden Mats?
Sushi mats are made from a variety of materials, such as bamboo, plastic, and wood. However, bamboo mats are preferred and the most popular and sustainable option by far. Below, we discuss some of the reasons as to why bamboo sushi mats are better than other materials:
- Bamboo is a sustainable alternative to wood. Therefore, the manufacturers can make excellent sushi mats without harming the environment.
- Bamboo is a safe, non-toxic, food-grade material. However, sushi mats made from plastic can be harmful to our health and the environment, particularly when made from a low-grade plastic polymer.
- Bamboo mats are flexible and unlikely to break. However, wooden mats are hard and difficult to roll, making it a struggle to make sushi. While plastic mats may have some flexibility, they can easily become deformed or warped.
What Is the Price of a Sushi Mat?
Sushi mats are generally affordable, ranging in price from $6 to $15. Their price fluctuates depending on the quality, the material, and the accessories that come with the kit. For instance, if you chose a sushi making kit that has two sushi mats, a spreader, and a paddle, it will cost more than a kit with only two sushi mats. Similarly, mats made from organically grown bamboo are priced higher than the mats manufactured using regular bamboo.
How To Roll Sushi With a Sushi Mat?
If it’s your first time making sushi or you want to improve sushi rolling skills, below we’ve included a step-by-step guide on how to roll sushi like a pro in your home kitchen:
- First, spread the sushi mat flat on a tabletop or counter and place the nori on it
- Mx the vinegar with the sticky rice using a rice paddle in a bowl
- Once you’re done mixing, scoop out the rice and spread it evenly on the sushi mat using the rice spreader
- Make sure to leave space on the sides of the mat so that while rolling the ingredients won’t spill out
- Place the ingredients on the rice (such as salmon, tuna, avocado, carrot, etc.)
- Lift the closest edge of the bamboo mat by placing your thumbs underneath it
- Roll it up and wrap the rest of your fingers over the mat
- Gently press along the length of the mat to ensure that all the ingredients take the cylindrical shape of the roll
- Pull the mat towards you and start rolling it away from you until you reach the end of the mat
