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Tuna Maki

This classic Tuna Maki is an excellent introduction to the rewarding art of sushi making at home. Combining fresh, sushi-grade tuna with seasoned rice and crisp nori, these hand-rolled treats are both elegant and incredibly satisfying. The addition of zesty lemon water for handling the rice helps to keep the flavours bright, while the delicate heat of wasabi provides a traditional kick. It is a light yet nourishing dish that celebrates the simplicity of high-quality Japanese ingredients.

As a high-protein option, these maki rolls are perfect for a healthy lunch or a sophisticated sharing platter. Served with julienned daikon, carrots and pickled ginger, the dish offers a wonderful contrast of textures and vibrant colours. Whether you are hosting a dinner party or looking to expand your culinary repertoire, this straightforward method ensures professional results every time you roll. Simply serve with a side of soy sauce for dipping to enjoy a complete, nutritious meal.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Tuna Maki

  • 1/2 lemon, thinly sliced crosswise

  • 4 (8 1/4- by 7 1/4-inch) sheets roasted nori (dried seaweed), cut in half crosswise

  • 750g prepared sushi rice

  • 45g wasabi paste

  • 230g sushi-grade yellowfin or ahi tuna, cut into 3/4-inch strips

  • 80g sliced pickled ginger (gari)*

  • 1 small daikon radish, peeled and julienned using mandoline

  • 2 medium carrots, peeled and julienned using mandoline

  • Soy sauce for dipping

  • *Available at Asian markets

  • mandoline, bamboo sushi mat*

How to make Tuna Maki

Fill large bowl with ice water and lemon slices.

Place sushi mat on cutting board with slats running crosswise. Arrange 1 sheet nori, shiny side down, on mat, lining up long edge of sheet with edge of mat nearest you. Lightly moisten hands with lemon water, then gently spread about 140g rice onto nori in even layer, leaving 1/2-inch border on long end opposite you.

Brush 1/2 teaspoons wasabi paste in thin horizontal line across rice about 1 inch from side nearest you. Arrange about 1/8 of tuna strips in horizontal line atop wasabi line, cutting tuna as necessary to fit from side to side.

Beginning with edge nearest you, lift mat up with thumbs, holding filling in place with fingers, and fold mat over filling so that upper and lower edges of rice meet. Squeeze gently but firmly along length of roll and tug top edge of mat away from you to tighten. (Nori border will still be visible below top edge of mat.) Open mat and roll log forward 1/4 turn, then fold mat over again and squeeze gently but firmly to seal nori border. Repeat to form remaining rolls.

Transfer 1 roll, seam side down, to cutting board. Dip sharp knife into lemon water, shaking off excess. Slice roll in half, then cut each half into 3 pieces. Slice remaining rolls in same manner. Serve immediately with remaining wasabi paste, ginger, daikon, carrots, and soy sauce.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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