Easy Hand Roll Sushi Recipe for Kids in Bali, Indonesia
Discover a fun and simple way to make hand roll sushi that your kids will love!
Inspired by Bali’s tropical flavors and local ingredients, this recipe is perfect for families visiting or living in Bali. Let’s get rolling!
Table of Contents
What is Hand Roll Sushi?
Hand roll sushi, or temaki, is a cone-shaped sushi filled with rice, fresh vegetables, and protein, wrapped in seaweed.
This dish is interactive and perfect for kids to assemble themselves. Adding a Bali-inspired twist brings tropical flavors and local charm to this Japanese favorite.
Balinese Inspiration for Hand Roll Sushi
This recipe draws on Bali’s culinary heritage by incorporating ingredients like sambal matah (raw chili condiment), kecap manis (sweet soy sauce), and tropical fruits like mango.
These elements add vibrant flavors that make the dish unique and kid-friendly.
Ingredients for Hand Roll Sushi (Serves 4 Kids)

For the Sushi Rice:
2 cups cooked short-grain rice
2 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp sugar
½ tsp salt
For the Fillings:
200g fresh tuna or cooked chicken (thinly sliced)
1 ripe mango (thinly sliced)
1 cucumber (julienned)
1 avocado (sliced)
4 nori sheets (cut into halves)
2 tbsp sambal matah (optional for mild spice)
¼ cup shredded carrots
For Garnish:
Sesame seeds
Fresh coriander leaves
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Hand Roll Sushi
Step 1: Prepare the Sushi Rice
Rinse the short-grain rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Cook according to the package instructions.
While the rice is still warm, combine rice vinegar, sugar, and salt in a small bowl and stir until dissolved.
Gently fold the vinegar mixture into the cooked rice using a cutting motion to avoid crushing the grains. Spread the rice on a flat surface to cool to room temperature, covering it with a damp cloth to prevent drying.
Step 2: Prep the Fillings
Slice the tuna, mango, cucumber, and avocado into thin, uniform strips for easy rolling.
Place all the ingredients on a large platter or in separate small bowls to create a vibrant and accessible assembly station.
If using sambal matah, prepare it fresh for optimal flavor by combining finely chopped shallots, lemongrass, and chili with a drizzle of coconut oil and lime juice.
Step 3: Assemble the Hand Rolls
Take a half nori sheet and place it shiny side down on your palm or a flat surface.
Spread a thin layer of sushi rice diagonally on the nori, leaving the edges clean for easy rolling.
Layer a small portion of tuna or chicken, mango, cucumber, and avocado on the rice. Add a touch of sambal matah for a Balinese kick.
Gently roll the nori into a cone shape, starting from one corner and tucking in the filling as you go. Use a dab of water to seal the edge of the nori.
Repeat for all the rolls, allowing kids to experiment with their preferred combinations.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Arrange the completed rolls on a serving platter, garnished with sesame seeds and fresh coriander leaves.
Provide small dipping bowls of soy sauce, kecap manis, or sambal matah to complement the rolls.
Encourage kids to get creative and assemble their own rolls for added fun and engagement!
Tips for Perfect Bali-Style Presentation
Use Natural Elements: Serve the sushi on banana leaves placed over a bamboo or wooden tray for an authentic Balinese feel.
Decorate with Edible Flowers: Add frangipani or marigold flowers around the platter to evoke Bali’s vibrant tropical ambiance.
Incorporate Local Textures: Use traditional woven mats or batik-patterned tablecloths as a backdrop to elevate the presentation.
Showcase the Ingredients: Arrange the fillings on a separate platter in concentric circles or neat rows to highlight their colors and freshness.
Offer Local Condiments: Serve alongside small clay dishes of sambal matah or chili oil for an extra Balinese touch.
Keep it Cool: Chill the serving platter slightly before plating to maintain the sushi’s freshness in Bali’s warm climate.
Detailed Recipe Overview and Cost for Bali Families
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4 kid-sized portions
Estimated Cost in Bali: IDR 80,000-100,000 (Approx. $5.50-$7 USD)
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 320 kcal
Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 15mg
Sodium: 250mg
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 12g
Calories
320 kcal
Fat
10g
Cholestrol
0mg
Sodium
250mg
Carbohydrates
45g
Protein
12g
FAQs about Hand Roll Sushi in Bali
Q1: Where can I buy fresh nori sheets and sushi-grade fish in Bali?
A: You can find these ingredients at specialty stores like Bali Buda, Pepito Supermarket, or large markets like Pasar Badung.
Q2: How can I make the sushi rice more flavorful with Balinese ingredients?
A: Add a splash of coconut milk to the rice seasoning mixture or mix in finely chopped kaffir lime leaves for a tropical twist.
Q3: Can I substitute tuna with a local Balinese fish?
A: Yes, you can use ikan mahi-mahi or snapper, which are fresh and readily available in Bali’s markets.
Q4: Are there traditional Balinese rituals associated with preparing meals like this?
A: While sushi is not native to Bali, meal preparation often involves communal effort and gratitude ceremonies, which can be a great way to involve kids in cooking with mindfulness.