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Sushi Roll vs. Hand Roll: 4 Key Differences

Closeup of chef hands preparing japanese food. Japanese chef making sushi at restaurant. Young chef serving traditional japanese sushi served on a black stone plate.

Sushi Roll vs. Hand Roll: 4 Key Differences

Sushi enthusiasts might be faced with a slight dilemma when it comes to choosing between sushi rolls and hand rolls. Both of these options have their advantages, making the decision quite the challenge. One main difference lies in the presentation. Sushi rolls are skillfully sliced into bite-sized pieces, while hand rolls are left to be enjoyed whole. This post will provide more details regarding the presentation and explore the differences in ingredients, preparation, and size between the sushi roll vs. hand roll.

Sushi Roll vs. Hand Roll: Difference in Ingredients

Sushi is a dish that is enjoyed by people worldwide. Surprisingly, sushi rolls and hand rolls are only two of several ways to enjoy sushi. Although the ingredients used are one of the differences that sets them apart, both can consist of specially seasoned rice, known as sushi rice. For the most part, sushi rolls contain rice, whereas hand rolls may or may not include it. Also, sushi rolls are wrapped in seaweed or soy paper, while hand rolls are covered using seaweed. Lastly, the fish used in sushi rolls is usually cooked, while the fish in hand rolls tends to be raw.

Sushi Roll vs Hand RollNutrients Comparison
Sushi can be a healthy option.

Sushi Roll vs. Hand Roll: Difference in Preparation

The preparation methods for sushi and hand rolls also contribute to their unique qualities. Rolling the ingredients tightly with a bamboo mat using seaweed or soy paper creates the cylinder shape of sushi rolls. On the other hand, a bamboo mat is not needed to shape hand rolls. Instead, you roll them into a cone shape using your hand. Lastly, sushi rolls can be eaten with your hand or chopsticks, while hand rolls are only eaten with your hands. How the rolls are prepared results in different eating experiences for these two sushi options. 

Sushi Roll vs. Hand Roll: Difference in Presentation

As previously mentioned, a noticeable difference between sushi rolls and hand rolls is their presentation. Sushi rolls are artfully sliced into bite-sized portions carefully arranged on a plate to showcase the layered fillings. On the contrary, hand rolls are not cut into pieces. They are left whole, with the fillings peeking out from one end. Sushi rolls are great for sharing due to being cut into small sizes, while hand rolls are single servings designed to be enjoyed in two or three bites. Whether you appreciate the artistry of sushi rolls or prefer the simplicity of hand rolls, both offer delightful and satisfying flavors in their unique way.

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Sushi Roll vs. Hand Roll: Difference in Size 

Another significant difference between these two sushi types is their sizes. Sushi rolls are smaller since they are sliced into bite-sized pieces that can be eaten in one or two bites. Conversely, since hand rolls are not cut, they are larger. Both types of sushi can be delicious and satisfying; however, the difference in size portions can affect the sushi you choose to eat.

Sushi Roll vs. Hand Roll: Sushi Roll Recipe

Have you ever wanted to make your sushi rolls at home? Well, with this step-by-step recipe, you can do that!

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A selection of sushi rolls with salmon, tuna, cucumber and soy sauce dip.

Spicy Sushi Roll


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  • Author: MomsWhoThink.com

Ingredients

  • Rice
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  • Sushi seaweed sheets
  • Sushi vinegar
  • Fillings of your choice (such as fish, cucumber or avocado)
  • Toppings (like seeds or spicy mayo)


Instructions

  1. Cook the rice following the instructions on the package. Then, let it cool down a bit.
  2. Season the rice with sushi vinegar.
  3. Place a seaweed sheet on a mat. Spread a layer of rice evenly over it.
  4. Add your desired fillings in a line across the center of the rice.
  5. Top it off with your selected toppings.
  6. Lift the edge of the sushi mat closest to you. Next, roll it away from yourself while gently pressing to shape the roll.
  7. Slice into pieces and savor your sushi creation!
Sushi Roll vs Hand Roll
Rice is one of the main ingredients used in sushi.

Sushi Roll vs. Hand Roll: Hand Roll Recipe

Sushi hand rolls provide a way to enjoy sushi without requiring chopsticks or a plate. Making them at home can be easy and enjoyable with some practice.

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California Hand Roll Sushi Set : Foie Gras, Shrimp with Kani, Tamagoyaki, Avocado and Tobiko. Another is Shrimp Tempura and Crispy Tuna Skin with Sliced Cucumber.

Crunchy Hand Roll


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Try Home Chef - Family Meals Made Easy
  • 4-serving meals starting at $3.77 per serving (up to 25% cheaper than HelloFresh).
  • Incredible variety with 10+ weekly meal options, delivered directly to you.
  • Easy to prepare meals ready in 30-minutes or less.
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
  • Author: MomsWhoThink.com

Ingredients

  • Rice (optional)
  • Sushi seaweed sheets
  • Sushi vinegar
  • Fillings (such as avocado, cucumber, or crab meat)
  • Sauce (like wasabi paste)

Instructions

  1. Cook the rice following the instructions on the package. Let it cool slightly.
  2. Season the rice with sushi vinegar.
  3. Spread a layer of rice on one-half of the seaweed sheet.
  4. Add your preferred fillings and sauce on top of the rice.
  5. Roll up the seaweed sheet into a cone shape, beginning at a corner to near your filling. Make sure to tuck in the filling as you roll.
  6. Serve immediately. Enjoy!

Making sushi hand rolls is a great way to treat your guests and allows you to experiment with exciting flavor combinations. 

In summary, both sushi rolls and hand rolls are delicious, making it difficult to choose between them. Each person has their preferences when it comes to selecting the perfect sushi. After exploring the differences in their ingredients, preparation techniques, presentation styles, and size comparisons, hopefully, this post has given you enough insight into what kind of sushi you want to try next.

If you prefer having a couple of sushi rolls to share with a friend or a delicious hand roll packed with your favorite fillings, go for it! There are plenty of options to choose from whether you decide to visit a restaurant or try your hand at making them yourself.

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