Uni Gunkan-maki

Japan · East Asia

Short description: This bite uses a band of seaweed to form a small cup, keeping the soft sea urchin topping in place over seasoned rice.
Ingredients: Sushi rice and nori hold creamy sea urchin, usually served with soy sauce and wasabi.
Cultural note: The boat-shaped wrapping makes delicate toppings easier to serve at sushi counters and conveyor-belt shops. Its appeal depends on freshness and briny sweetness.
Common misconception: The orange topping is sea urchin roe, not fish eggs.

image credit