Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsAriake Sushi & RobataCalifornia Roll Recipe

California Roll Recipe

Time45m
Serves4

Crab, avocado, cucumber

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Ingredients

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Sushi Rice

Fillings and Wraps

Condiments

Method

Prepare Sushi Rice

  1. 1

    Rinse the Rice

    Start by rinsing the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps to remove excess starch.

  2. 2

    Cook the Rice

    Transfer the rinsed rice to a rice cooker or a pot. Add 2.5 cups of water. If using a rice cooker, cook according to the manufacturer's instructions. If using a pot, bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes.

  3. 3

    Season the Rice

    Once the rice is cooked, let it cool slightly. In a small bowl, mix rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until dissolved. Gently fold this mixture into the rice using a wooden spatula, being careful not to smash the grains.

Prepare the Fillings

  1. 4

    Slice the Avocado

    Cut the avocado in half, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh out with a spoon. Slice the avocado into thin strips.

  2. 5

    Slice the Cucumber

    Cut the cucumber in half lengthwise and then slice it into thin strips.

  3. 6

    Prepare the Crab

    If using imitation crab, simply shred it into bite-size pieces. If using real crab, ensure it is cooked and shredded.

Assemble the Rolls

  1. 7

    Set Up Your Rolling Station

    Lay a bamboo sushi mat on a clean surface, and place a sheet of plastic wrap over it. Place a nori sheet on top, shiny side down.

  2. 8

    Add Rice

    Wet your hands to prevent sticking, and take a handful of sushi rice (about 1/2 cup) and spread it evenly over the nori, leaving about 1 inch of space at the top.

  3. 9

    Add Fillings

    Place a few strips of crab, avocado, and cucumber horizontally across the center of the rice.

  4. 10

    Roll the Sushi

    Using the bamboo mat, carefully lift the edge closest to you and start rolling away from you, tucking the fillings in as you go. Roll tightly but not too tight, and use the mat to shape the roll as you go.

  5. 11

    Seal the Roll

    Once rolled, moisten the edge of the nori with a little water to seal the roll.

  6. 12

    Slice the Roll

    Using a sharp knife, slice the roll into 6-8 pieces. Clean the knife with a damp cloth between cuts to ensure clean edges.

Serve

  1. 13

    Plating

    Arrange the sliced rolls on a plate. Serve with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger on the side.

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