Narutomaki or Naruto
Narutomaki or Japanese cured fish “stick”
Ingredient Name: Narutomaki, Naruto (which is the name of a Japanese anime!)
Traditional Chinese Name: 鳴門巻き/なると巻き (narutomaki)
What is this?
- The name “Naruto” is actually an Anime
- Narutomaki – the maki is meant as a long roll or something in a cylindrical form – ie: “maki” sushi rolls
- A steamed Japanese fish “stick” or “cake”, similar to the Chinese fish balls
- It’s normally sold as one long, white stick in a flower shaped, with a pink swirl in the middle
- The taste is slightly salty and fishy, but not a bad way. It’s actually quite delicious!
How do I prepare it?
- They are edible when bought frozen or cold
- You can quickly boil to make warm before adding directly on top of noodles, soup or other dishes
Where can I buy this?
- Most Asian supermarkets will carry this
- The frozen section of the wet marts in HK will also carry this (or the “fish ball vendors”)
- Japanese supermarkets will definitely carry this such as Jusco, AEON and Apita
What is the cost?
- In Hong Kong, 1 length cost between $12-15 HKD
Any benefits?
- Ready-to-eat and slice directly from the freeze or fridge
- They are great for kids because of the decorative look
- Low in fat
Any precautions?
- These products normally contain MSG and should be consumed in moderation
- From my personal opinion, they are high in sodium (salt / NaCl)
Narutomaki in it’s pre-cut form being sliced