How to Make Narutomaki: A Step-by-Step Guide

Narutomaki, a traditional Japanese fish cake with a distinctive pink swirl, is a delightful addition to various dishes, especially ramen. Crafting your own narutomaki at home allows you to enjoy its authentic flavors and explore the art of Japanese cuisine. In this guide, we'll take you through the process of making narutomaki from scratch.

Ingredients

1. Fish Paste Mixture

• 1 cup white fish fillet (cod or pollock)
• 2 tablespoons potato starch
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 egg white

2. Seasoning

• 1/2 teaspoon mirin
• 1/2 teaspoon soy sauce
• Pinch of salt

3. Pink Coloring

• 1/4 teaspoon beet juice or food-grade red coloring

Step 1: Prepare the Fish Paste

Start by cutting the fish fillet into small pieces. In a food processor, combine the fish, potato starch, salt, sugar, and egg white. Blend until you achieve a smooth and elastic texture.

Step 2: Add Seasoning

In a separate bowl, mix mirin, soy sauce, and a pinch of salt. Add this seasoning mixture to the fish paste, ensuring an even distribution of flavors. Blend again until well incorporated.

Step 3: Introduce Pink Coloring

For the iconic pink swirl, incorporate beet juice or red food coloring into a portion of the fish paste. Mix thoroughly until you achieve the desired hue.

Step 4: Shape and Roll

Divide the fish paste into two portions – one pink and the other white. Roll each portion into a cylindrical shape. Place the pink roll inside the white roll, creating a spiral pattern.

Step 5: Steam

Place the rolled fish paste on a steaming rack and steam for approximately 20-25 minutes until cooked through.

Step 6: Cool and Slice

Allow the narutomaki to cool before slicing it into thin rounds. Each slice will reveal the beautiful pink swirl within the white fish cake.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You've successfully crafted your homemade narutomaki. Whether you add it to ramen or enjoy it as a standalone snack, this culinary adventure allows you to savor the authentic taste of Japanese cuisine in the comfort of your home. Experiment with different presentations and share your creations with fellow food enthusiasts. Happy cooking!