Description
California Roll Sushi Recipe – a classic, beginner-friendly sushi roll filled with creamy avocado, crisp cucumber, and sweet imitation crab, all wrapped in nori and seasoned sushi rice. Rolled inside-out and coated with sesame seeds, this homemade California roll tastes just like your favorite sushi restaurant!
Ingredients
- 1 cup sushi rice, cooked
- 1/2 avocado, sliced
- 1 cucumber, peeled and sliced
- 6 pieces imitation crab (surimi)
- 2 sheets nori seaweed
- 4 tablespoons Japanese mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
Instructions
- Place nori on a plastic-wrapped sushi mat.
- Spread half the sushi rice evenly over the nori.
- Flip the sheet so the rice is on the outside.
- Add a thin layer of rice on one half, leaving a small border.
- Spread mayonnaise in a line across the center.
- Add cucumber, avocado slices, and imitation crab in a line.
- Roll tightly using the sushi mat, pressing firmly to shape.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds on the mat and roll the sushi to coat.
- Slice into 8 pieces and serve.
Notes
- Use seasoned sushi rice made with rice vinegar, sugar, and salt for authentic flavor.
- Wet your hands with water when handling sushi rice to prevent sticking.
- Wrap the sushi mat in plastic wrap to prevent rice from sticking to it.
- Use a very sharp knife, wet with water, to slice rolls cleanly without crushing.
- To toast sesame seeds, heat in a dry pan until lightly golden.
- Substitute real crab meat for imitation crab for a more authentic version.
- Add cream cheese for a Philadelphia-style California roll.
- Serve with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger.
- Best enjoyed immediately after making for freshest flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Main Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Japanese