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Kaki-no-ha Sushi — traditional dish from Nara, Japan
Main course Fish & Seafood

Food Flavour DNA

Nutritional Values

🔥180kcal
💪10gProtein
🌾28gCarbs
🥑3gFat
🌿1gFibre
⚖️150 gServing

* Per serving · 150 g. May vary.

Allergens

🐟 Fish 🫘 Soy 🌾 Gluten

Kaki-no-ha Sushi

How to order / say it
Say it 柿の葉寿司 — [kah-kee-no-ha soo-shee]
Order I'd like to order Kaki-no-ha Sushi.
Locally 柿の葉寿司をお願いします。
Say locally

Sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves from Nara.

Why try it?

This sushi showcases Nara's innovation in preserving fish through wrapping in persimmon leaves, reflecting the region's agricultural richness.

How it tastes

Mildly sweet and acidic, the preserved fish pairs beautifully with vinegared rice, enhanced by the faint, citrus-like aroma of persimmon leaf.

Origin & History — first documented: 710

Originating in the Nara period, this sushi was developed as a method to preserve fish for longer periods. Persimmon trees were abundant in the region, and their leaves were known for antibacterial properties. The dish gained popularity among travelers and local farmers.

Recipe

Ingredients

  • 🐟 150 g mackerel
  • 🌾 200 g rice
  • 🥣 50 ml vinegar
  • 🍯 10 g sugar
  • 🧂 5 g salt
  • 🌿 10 leaves persimmon leaves

Method

  1. 1 Season the cooked rice with vinegar, sugar, and salt.
  2. 2 Place a small portion of rice on a persimmon leaf.
  3. 3 Top the rice with a slice of mackerel.
  4. 4 Fold the leaf around the sushi to form a parcel.
  5. 5 Let sit for flavors to meld before serving.
All Asia recipes — Japan — Nara — Kaki-no-ha Sushi
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