Kappa Maki Sushi

The kappa maki, or cucumber sushi roll, is a simple classic. It’s nutritious, easy to make, and has a cool story. This post will give you a quick overview of everything there is to know about the cucumber roll. 

This page is part of a larger sushi and sashimi guide. It’s a helpful resource for learning about different types of sushi.

What is a Kappa Maki? 

A kappa maki is a sushi roll made with just cucumber, nori seaweed, and sushi rice. This roll gets its name from the kappa, a water-loving yokai. The reason for this is because kappa are green and are said to love cucumbers. 

This cucumber roll is a type of hosomaki. The nori seaweed is on the outside of these thin sushi rolls. 

One roll, Several Names

The kappa maki (かっぱ巻き) is sometimes called the kyuri maki (きゅうり巻き), which means cucumber roll. 

Outside of Japan, kyuri maki is not a commonly used term.

The Kappa 

The kappa is an amphibious mythological creature. These green humanoids often have turtle-like shells. And the tops of their heads are saucer-shaped. Water must always fill this depression, or the kappa loses its strength. 

The green kappa are said to be fond of cucumbers, thus giving their name to this famous cucumber roll. 

Learn about kappa and other yokai from this cool website.

Are Kappa Maki Vegan? 

The kappa roll is both vegan and vegetarian. It’s only made with cucumber, nori seaweed, and sushi rice. 

Cucumber Roll Calories and Dietary Info

A six-piece kappa maki contains around 130 calories, 35g carbs, and no fat or protein.* Most of the calories come from the sushi rice.

Overall, cucumber rollls are a great source of dietary fiber, vitamin C, and vitamin K. They also contain many other beneficial nutrients and minerals.

One slight downside to cucumber rolls is the sodium from rice vinegar. This is true of all sushi, however. Nori also contains a modest amount of sodium. 

*According to myfitnesspal 

Share Your Thoughts on Kappa Maki?

I admit that I haven’t eaten a lot of cucumber rolls. But writing this post makes me want to. They’re healthy and affordable, plus they have a cool story.

Do you have any stories about this sushi roll you’d like to share? Are you a fan, or are you like me and have found them to be too mild? I’d love it if your thoughts by commenting below.