Colorful Rainbow Sushi Kids Love in Bali, Indonesia
Discover the joy of creating vibrant, Bali-inspired rainbow sushi that’s perfect for kids! This fun and easy recipe combines local flavors with kid-friendly ingredients to create a colorful, healthy meal the whole family will enjoy.
What is Rainbow Sushi?
Rainbow sushi is a delightful twist on traditional sushi, featuring vibrant colors from fresh vegetables and natural ingredients.
It’s a fun, visually appealing meal that encourages kids to eat healthy while exploring new flavors.
Balinese Inspiration for Rainbow Sushi
This recipe incorporates Balinese flavors like kecap manis (sweet soy sauce), fresh turmeric, and fragrant coconut rice, blending local tastes with sushi’s global appeal.
The result is a meal that’s both exotic and approachable for young palates.
Ingredients for Bali-Inspired Rainbow Sushi (Serves 4 Kids)
For the Rice:
2 cups sushi rice
1 1/2 cups coconut milk
1 cup water
2 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp sugar
1/2 tsp salt
For the Fillings:
1 small cucumber, julienned
1 small carrot, julienned
1 ripe avocado, sliced
1 red bell pepper, julienned
1/2 cup purple cabbage, shredded
2 eggs, cooked into a thin omelet and sliced
Seasonings:
1 tbsp kecap manis
1/2 tsp turmeric powder (for color)
Other Ingredients:
6 sheets of nori (seaweed)
Soy sauce or kecap manis for dipping
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Rainbow Sushi
Step 1: Prepare the Coconut Rice
Rinse sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
Combine rice, coconut milk, and water in a rice cooker or pot. Cook on low heat until the liquid is fully absorbed and the rice is tender.
In a small bowl, mix rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Gently fold this mixture into the warm rice to ensure even seasoning. Allow the rice to cool to room temperature before use.
Step 2: Prepare the Fillings
Slice cucumber, carrot, avocado, bell pepper, and purple cabbage into uniform, thin strips to ensure even distribution in the rolls.
Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat, pour in the beaten eggs, and cook until set. Roll the omelet and slice into thin strips.
Keep all the fillings organized in separate bowls for easy access during assembly.
Step 3: Assemble the Sushi Rolls
Place a sheet of nori on a bamboo sushi mat, shiny side down. Ensure the rough side faces up for better adhesion with the rice.
Spread a thin, even layer of coconut rice over the nori, leaving a 1-inch border at the top to seal the roll.
Layer the fillings horizontally across the rice, starting with the cucumber and carrot for structure, followed by softer ingredients like avocado and omelet strips.
Carefully lift the edge of the bamboo mat and begin rolling tightly. Apply gentle but firm pressure to create a compact roll.
Moisten the exposed edge of the nori with water to seal the roll securely.
Step 4: Slice and Serve
Use a sharp knife dipped in water to slice each roll into 6-8 even pieces. Wipe the blade clean between cuts for a polished presentation.
Arrange the sushi pieces on a platter, alternating colors to highlight the rainbow effect.
Serve immediately with soy sauce or kecap manis for dipping.
Tips for Perfect Bali-Style Presentation
Banana Leaf Plating: Line your serving platters with fresh banana leaves for a tropical and eco-friendly touch.
Edible Garnishes: Decorate with edible flowers such as marigolds, frangipani, or nasturtiums to add vibrant colors and a hint of floral aroma.
Layered Presentation: Arrange the sushi pieces in a circular pattern on a woven bamboo tray, layering them slightly to create depth.
Traditional Accompaniments: Include small bowls of sambal matah (Balinese raw chili relish) and pickled vegetables for added authenticity.
Cultural Touch: Serve with wooden chopsticks and small coconut shell bowls for soy sauce or kecap manis to enhance the Balinese dining experience.
Detailed Recipe Overview and Cost for Bali Families
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 kid-sized portions
Estimated Cost in Bali: IDR 70,000-90,000 (Approx. $4.50-$6 USD)
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 310 kcal
Carbohydrates: 52g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 8g
Sodium: 210mg
Cholesterol: 40mg
Calories
310 kcal
Fat
8g
Cholestrol
40mg
Sodium
210mg
Carbohydrates
52g
Protein
6g
FAQs about Rainbow Sushi in Bali
Q1: What local ingredients can I substitute in this recipe?
A: You can use tempeh instead of eggs for a plant-based option and fresh pandan leaves in the rice for an aromatic twist.
Q2: Are there any traditional Balinese sides that pair well with rainbow sushi?
A: Yes, sambal matah and urap (Balinese mixed vegetables with grated coconut) complement this dish beautifully.
Q3: Can I find all the ingredients in Bali’s local markets?
A: Most ingredients, such as fresh vegetables, coconut milk, and nori, are readily available at traditional markets or specialty stores in Bali.
Q4: How can I adapt this recipe for a Balinese celebration?
A: You can serve the sushi as part of a larger spread, incorporating Balinese decorative elements like flower petals and woven trays for a festive touch.