Description
Tobiko is the small, vibrant, and crunchy roe of flying fish, widely used in Japanese cuisine. Known for its slightly sweet, briny flavor and crisp texture, tobiko is a staple in sushi dishes, especially as a topping for nigiri, rolls, and sashimi. It is often dyed in bright colors such as orange, black, green (wasabi-infused), and red. Tobiko is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and protein, making it a nutritious addition to seafood dishes.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup sushi rice, cooked and seasoned
- ½ sheet nori (seaweed)
- 2 tbsp tobiko (flying fish roe)
- ½ small cucumber, julienned
- 2 imitation crab sticks, shredded
- 2 tbsp Japanese mayonnaise
- ½ tsp wasabi (optional)
- 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional)
- Soy sauce for dipping
- Pickled ginger and wasabi for serving
Instructions
Prepare the Sushi Rice:
- Cook sushi rice according to package instructions and season with rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Let it cool.
Make the Crab Mixture:
- In a small bowl, mix shredded imitation crab with Japanese mayonnaise and a touch of wasabi (if using).
Assemble the Roll:
- Place the nori sheet on a sushi mat, rough side up.
- Spread a thin layer of sushi rice over the nori.
- Add cucumber strips and the crab mixture near one edge.
Roll and Cut:
- Roll tightly using the bamboo mat, pressing gently to shape it.
- Slice into bite-sized pieces with a sharp knife.
Add Tobiko:
- Carefully spoon tobiko over the top of each piece, pressing slightly so it adheres.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds for extra texture.
Serve & Enjoy:
- Serve with soy sauce, pickled ginger, and wasabi on the side.
Notes
- Tobiko vs. Masago: Tobiko is slightly larger and crunchier than masago (capelin roe), which has a softer texture.
- How to Store Tobiko: Keep it refrigerated in an airtight container for up to two weeks or frozen for up to three months.
- Tobiko Variations: It comes in different flavors, such as wasabi (green), yuzu (yellow), squid ink (black), and spicy (red).
- Alternative Uses: Tobiko can be used as a garnish for poke bowls, sashimi, sushi pizza, and even pasta.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (No cooking required)
- Category: Appetizer, Sushi
- Method: Assembly
- Cuisine: Japanese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sushi roll (6 pieces)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 60mg