Temari Sushi Bento

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Recipe Intro From sylvia.wakana

This Temari Sushi Bento is as beautiful as it is delicious—perfect for picnics, spring gatherings, or an elegant packed lunch. Temari sushi are delicate, hand-rolled sushi balls made with seasoned rice and your favorite toppings, from sashimi to crisp vegetables. Despite their artful appearance, they’re surprisingly simple to make! Just a bit of plastic wrap and creativity is all you need.

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  • Recipe Card
Prep time: 30mins
Serves or Makes: 4 servings

Recipe Card

ingredients

  • 2 rice cooker cups Calrose rice, cooked (about 1 1/2 cups uncooked)
  • 5 tablespoons seasoned rice vinegar
  • Sashimi-grade salmon, sliced
  • Sashimi-grade tuna, sliced
  • Cooked shrimp
  • Cucumber, thinly sliced or cut into shapes
  • Ikura (salmon roe)
  • Shiso leaves

Method

  • Step 1

    While the rice is still warm, transfer it to a wide, flat bowl. Gently fold in the seasoned rice vinegar using a rice paddle or spatula. Cover with a damp towel and let rest while you prep toppings.

  • Step 2

    Thinly slice the fish, peel and slice cucumbers (you can use a small cutter to make fun shapes), and prep any herbs or garnishes you'd like.

  • Step 3

    Place a heaping tablespoon of sushi rice on a piece of plastic wrap. Twist the plastic wrap and gently shape the rice into a ball using light pressure—just enough to hold its shape. Unwrap and set aside. Repeat with the remaining rice.

  • Step 4

    On a clean piece of plastic wrap, lay out a slice of salmon, cucumber, or shrimp—plus any herbs like shiso. Place a rice ball on top, then twist the wrap around it to gently mold the topping to the rice. Unwrap and repeat with other combinations.

  • Step 5

    Arrange your finished Temari sushi in a bento box or serving container. Garnish with extras like ikura, sliced shiso, or edible flowers if desired.

  • Step 6

    Best served at room temperature. Perfect for outdoor picnics, lunchboxes, or elegant brunch spreads.