Temaki Vs Maki: What’s The Difference?

When someone mentions Asian cuisine, probably one of the first things that pop into your head is sushi. A very common and popular dish that many people enjoy.

Actually, there is nothing like the taste of fresh, authentic sushi. A combo of short-grain rice with seafood, which is most of the time raw, with the addition of herbs or vegetables makes the perfect sushi.

Even though sushi has its origin in ancient China, today it’s popular almost all around the world. However, the Japanese have 2 special and popular sushi rolls that we will discuss and those are Temaki and Maki.

These traditional varieties are similar but not the same. What are Temaki and Maki, and what is the main difference between them?

Temaki and Maki are famous sushi rolls. And the main difference is the size, meaning Maki is always cut into bite pieces, while Temaki is one big cone or long roll, which you need to bite into it.

Now, let’s learn more about Temaki and Maki.

Temaki vs Maki: What’s The Difference?

As we mentioned, sushi is quite tasty and can be a perfect lunch or dinner idea.

Both Temaki and Maki will go nicely with a glass of wine or a cold brew. So, before we go on to compare these delicious sushi rolls, let’s review them in a more detailed way.

Read on each sushi roll and then find out what makes them different. 

What Is Temaki?

Temaki is a type of sushi that is in the hand roll form.

This type of sushi is also known as roll sushi. Usually, they are made of raw fish, also known as sashimi, veggies, vinegared rice, and other fillings which are wrapped in a nori cone.

Also, for Temaki, in Japan, it is typical to use cooked seafood such as salmon, shrimp, or Tamago. 

What Is Maki?

Maki is another traditional dish in Japanese cuisine. You can make them in many different forms. They can be large or small and rolled in different shapes. They can be either makisu or hand-rolled.

Maki is also known as norimaki, maki sushi, or makizushi. Therefore, you can come across these names as well. It is made from sushi rice with different types of toppings put together in toasted nori seaweed.

Maki is not just a main dish. It can be served as an appetizer or even as a part of a bento box. Further, Maki rolls are cut into small pieces and served. 

So, What’s The Difference?

Now that we know more details on Temaki and Maki, it is time to set them side by side. Read closely on what is easier to make, consume and what is more popular:

Shape

Temaki and Maki are differently shaped.

This means Temaki is cone shapes, whereas Maki is cut up in a bit like slices in a cylindrical roll. In Temaki there are more techniques on how to make them. Maki rolls are actually rolled sushi. 

Consumption

Maki is sliced into bite pieces, usually 6 or 8, so they can be served with chopsticks. On the other hand, Tmenaki is a roll by hand. It comes in a cone shape. And you’ll need assistance with. The easiest way is to eat it like an ice cream cone with your hands.

At this point, we have to mention that Maki is easier for you to share with another person since the slices are already placed and are easier to eat. On the other hand, Temaki is suitable for one person since it’s one roll and it’s harder to share. 

Which One Is More Served?

When it comes to popularity and which one you can find easier, Maki is more common. Maybe due to the fact that it is chopped into pieces and is easier for consumption.

Temaki is more popular among kids, it is easy to make and you can always try to make it at home. 

Ingredients

Both Temaki and Maki are made with nori sheets. However, Temaki will absorb the moisture much faster so it needs to be consumed just after rolling.

You need more skills when you make Maki. Everything needs to be layered nicely, tightened, and rolled. Afterward, you’ll be able to get a nice bite-sized cut. 

You can also add other ingredients to both dishes such as cucumbers, avocado, and carbs to make nice California rolls.

Some people prepare completely vegan types like Kappa Maki which is just cucumbers and rice, or some avocado maki. 

Other Alternatives

We know that Temaki is shaped like a cone but there are some other options as well.

Futomaki is another type that has vegetables like radish or daikon with eggs and fish. Uramaki is a roll that has cooked rice and nori on the outside with seaweed seeds and sesame seeds.

Hosomaki is another type of Maki roll that has only one filling of cucumbers or tuna rolls. 

Temaki Vs Maki: Comparison Chart

Extra Tips And Facts About Sushi

Both sushi types are easy to make at home, but you need to know more on what is the proper way to eat them. Also, do not forget to check up on a few historical facts regarding sushi.

Consumption

When you are served a hand roll, you have to use your hands to eat it. Thus, this goes for Tamaki. You shouldn’t let the cone sit or put it down on a plate. After the sushi is done, enjoy it immediately.

This is due to the fact that the nori will become very soft or soggy, and it wouldn’t be nice. It will be harder to eat it that way. Consume while the nori is still crispy and full of flavors. 

On the other hand, rolls are usually served and consumed with chopsticks like Maki. Dip it in a soy sauce or wasabi and straight in your mouth.

That way you will get the ideal balance of flavors in your mouth at the same time. Also, another way to eat Maki is with your fingers like some people in Japan. 

Historical Facts

As you know sushi dates from a long time ago and actually the first mention of it was in Japan. Making sushi became easier in the 19th century when rice vinegar and fermented fish and rice were easier to find.

With the invention of seaweed, the roll became popular and easy, which is why nowadays it is served like that. There are many sushi bars and restaurants now all over the world.

It is widely served and many people tend to enjoy this tasty, traditional meal. Try different ways of eating, as well as the many types of sushi that you can find. 

Related Questions

What Is The Difference Between A Maki Roll And A Temaki Roll?

When you compare Temaki and Maki, the first thing that you’ll notice is the cut size. Meaning maki rolls are cut into small pieces, whereas temaki is a hand roll in a cone that is meant to be bitten into. 

What Is Temaki Style?

Temaki style means sushi in its basic form, hand-rolled. All that is placed in a cone piece of seaweed and other ingredients. 

What Is A Temaki Roll?

Temaki roll is a rolled cone of seaweed with rice and other fillings.