Kappa Maki - At Home

I was introduced to Japanese cuisine by My Husband back when we were dating out in Kansas City. When I was growing up, there weren't a ton of Japanese restaurants - certainly none in our part of town. That was a drawback to growing up out there when I did. The number of ethnic restaurants were few and far between and we didn't go seeking them out either. I was in high school before I discovered Chinese food, and it's been a favorite ever since.

So, back to my introduction to Japanese food. I had always been very afraid of eating raw fish, so My Husband was smart to start me out with the maki rolls. Most of them are either vegetarian or have cooked shrimp or crab meat in them. That was a perfect way to begin for me. I also learned how to use chopsticks at Jun's Restaurant - apparently, it's still there based on my internet search. Ever since my first taste, I've loved Japanese food and am always on the lookout for new places that are in my part of New Jersey.

Once we got married and I moved to New Jersey, I was lucky enough to be introduced to his favorite place for Japanese food. Unfortunately, they decided to close up after I became pregnant with Our Oldest. What we liked about their maki rolls was that they sliced them thinner than any other restaurant. The thinner pieces are so much easier to eat, and hold on to with chopsticks.

From Family, Friends and Food

While shopping this weekend, My Husband picked up a sushi making kit similar to this one, Joyce Chen Sushi Kit . I was busy relaxing on the couch with My Youngest while he made them, so I can't describe the process. He said it was actually rather easy to do, so next time I'm sure we'll try some other ingredients that suit our mood.

I think that for a first time attempt they were perfect. I had some Wasabi powder from Penzey's and that was the perfect hit of spice to our soy sauce. I know I mention Penzey's often here, but they really do have an amazing selection and the freshest spices I've found so far. Maybe one day they will open one a bit closer to me than in NYC. Of course, that does make a nice excuse to head into the city!