【Reading】わさびまき

【English Name】Wasabi Roll

Wasabi-maki is a type of hosomaki (nori roll) that places grated wasabi as the leading ingredient. With a clean composition of wasabi wrapped in vinegared rice and nori, it gains support as a neta where one can enjoy the pungency of wasabi straightforwardly.

Owing to its intense spiciness, it has the alternative name "namida-maki" (tear roll). It is a name derived from a spiciness so strong that tears well up when eaten, and at sushi restaurants it boasts deep-rooted popularity as a connoisseur's item.

The wasabi used is ideally hon-wasabi (wasabi native to Japan), but depending on the shop, Western wasabi (horseradish) is sometimes used. When hon-wasabi is used, its appeal is that a faint sweetness and aroma can be sensed behind the pungency.

Many customers also order it as a drinking snack, and its compatibility with sake is reputed to be superb. Eating it as a palate cleanser between pieces of nigiri sushi has also become a standard way to enjoy it.