Sushi Kit

Packaged with chopsticks, a rolling mat, a rice paddle and surprisingly attractive dipping bowls, this slim volume is the ultimate holiday gift for any sushi fan who longs to roll his own. Although it contains simple recipes for favorites such as Kappa Maki (cucumber roll) and Spicy Tuna Roll, this book does not offer much for the culinary adventurer. What it does provide, however, is foolproof, step-by-step instructions on how to make flawless Sushi Rice (the secret is to cool it quickly at the end, using a handheld fan) and a best-practices guide on choosing fish for sushi (""buy whole fish and fillet at home when possible,"" and make sure the fish has glossy scales and ""bright, clear eyes""). It also provides a short but comprehensive glossary, which clarifies the difference between ocha (green tea) and onigiri (rice ball), and also makes for an excellent cheat-sheet at a Japanese restaurant. Nevertheless, the most exciting part of this package isn't really the book--it's all the neat sushi paraphernalia it comes with.