Authentic Sushi Rolls Recipe – How to Make Homemade Sushi

Sushi Rolls – Sushi Rolls are one of the most iconic dishes of Japanese cuisine, beloved worldwide for their delicate balance of flavors, textures, and artistry. Known as maki sushi in Japan, these rolls consist of seasoned rice, fresh vegetables, seafood, or other fillings, all wrapped in sheets of seaweed (nori). They can be customized in countless ways, from simple cucumber rolls to more complex combinations featuring fresh tuna, avocado, or crab.

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Recipe Overview

Cuisine: Japanese

Course: Main Course / Appetizer

Servings: 4

Calories: 350 kcal per serving

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Active Time: 20 minutes

Resting Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour

Equipment Needed

• Bamboo sushi rolling mat (makisu)

• Sharp knife

• Cutting board

• Rice cooker or pot

• Wooden spoon or rice paddle

• Mixing bowl

• Small bowl of water (to wet hands and knife)

Ingredients

• 2 cups sushi rice

• 2 ½ cups water

• ¼ cup rice vinegar

• 2 tablespoons sugar

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 4 sheets nori (seaweed)

• ½ cucumber, cut into thin strips

• 1 small avocado, sliced

• 4 ounces fresh sushi-grade fish (salmon, tuna, or crab sticks)

• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)

• Soy sauce, for serving

• Wasabi and pickled ginger, for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Sushi Rice

Start by rinsing the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This step removes excess starch, ensuring fluffy, non-sticky rice.
Cook the rice in a rice cooker or pot with 2 ½ cups of water. Once done, let it rest for 10 minutes.

While the rice cooks, mix rice vinegar, sugar, and salt in a small saucepan over low heat until the sugar dissolves. Once the rice has cooled slightly, gently fold in the vinegar mixture using a wooden spoon or rice paddle. Be careful not to mash the grains. Allow it to cool to room temperature before using.

2. Prepare the Fillings

While the rice cools, prepare your fillings. Slice the cucumber into thin matchsticks and cut the avocado into thin strips. If using raw fish, ensure it’s sushi-grade and sliced thinly for easy rolling.

3. Set Up the Rolling Station

Place a bamboo sushi mat on a clean surface and cover it with plastic wrap (to prevent sticking). Lay a sheet of nori shiny-side down on the mat. Keep a small bowl of water nearby to wet your fingers, which helps handle the sticky rice.

4. Spread the Rice

Wet your hands slightly and take a handful of sushi rice. Gently spread it over the nori, leaving about 1 inch at the top edge uncovered. Avoid pressing too hard — the rice should form an even, light layer.

5. Add the Fillings

Arrange your fillings horizontally across the center of the rice. Use a combination of ingredients, such as cucumber, avocado, and salmon, for a balanced flavor and texture.

6. Roll the Sushi

Lift the edge of the bamboo mat closest to you and begin rolling it away from your body, tucking the fillings tightly inside. Apply gentle, even pressure as you roll to keep the sushi compact without squishing it. Once rolled, press gently to seal the edge.

7. Slice the Rolls

Using a sharp knife dipped in water, slice the roll into 6–8 even pieces. Clean the knife between cuts to maintain smooth edges.

8. Serve and Garnish

Arrange the Sushi Rolls on a plate. Sprinkle with sesame seeds for added flavor and texture. Serve with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger on the side.

Nutrition Information

Cooking Tips

• Use Sushi-Grade Fish: Always buy fish labeled as sushi-grade to ensure it’s safe for raw consumption.

• Keep Hands Moist: Wet hands prevent the rice from sticking, making it easier to handle.

• Don’t Overfill: Overloading with fillings makes rolling difficult and causes breakage.

• Sharp Knife: A very sharp knife is crucial for clean, professional-looking cuts.

• Chill Before Cutting: Briefly chilling the roll in the refrigerator helps it hold its shape better when slicing.

Conclusion

Sushi Rolls represent the essence of Japanese culinary artistry — elegant, balanced, and endlessly customizable. Once you master the technique of rolling and cutting, making sushi at home becomes an enjoyable and creative experience. Whether you prefer classic tuna rolls, vegetarian options, or fusion-inspired flavors, Sushi Rolls offer a canvas for endless experimentation and satisfaction.