Makisu facts for kids
A makisu (say: mah-KEE-soo) is a special mat used in Japanese cooking. It is made from thin strips of bamboo woven together with cotton string. Makisu mats are very helpful for preparing different kinds of food.
What is a Makisu?
A makisu is usually about 25 centimeters (10 inches) long and 25 centimeters wide. However, you can find them in different sizes. There are two main types of makisu. One type has flat bamboo strips. The other type uses small, round bamboo strips. You can see both kinds in the picture.
How to Use a Makisu
People mostly use makisu to make a type of rolled sushi called makizushi. This is often just called maki. The mat helps you roll the rice and fillings tightly into a perfect cylinder.
Makisu mats are also useful for shaping other soft foods, like omelets. They can even help squeeze extra water out of foods. For example, you might use a makisu to press water out of cooked vegetables.
When making uramaki, which is sushi with the rice on the outside, some cooks cover the makisu with plastic wrap. This makes it easier to clean the mat afterward.
Keeping Your Makisu Clean
After you use a makisu, it is important to clean it well. You should scrub it to remove any tiny bits of food. Then, let it air dry completely. This stops bacteria and mold from growing on the bamboo. Makisu mats are usually not very expensive. So, some people simply throw them away after a few uses.
