Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsOcean ZenTempura California Roll Recipe

Tempura California Roll Recipe

Inspired by Ocean Zen
Time1h
Serves4

Crab, avocado, cucumber, masago

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Ingredients

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Sushi Rice

Filling

Tempura Batter

Method

Prepare Sushi Rice

  1. 1

    Rinse the Rice

    Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch.

  2. 2

    Cook the Rice

    Combine the rinsed rice and water in a rice cooker or pot. Cook according to the rice cooker's instructions or bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.

  3. 3

    Season the Rice

    In a small bowl, mix rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until dissolved. Once the rice is cooked, transfer to a large bowl and gently fold in the vinegar mixture. Allow to cool to room temperature.

Prepare Filling

  1. 4

    Prepare Crab

    Shred the imitation crab meat into smaller pieces.

  2. 5

    Slice Avocado

    Cut the avocado in half, remove the pit, and slice it into thin strips.

  3. 6

    Slice Cucumber

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

Make Tempura Batter

  1. 7

    Mix Dry Ingredients

    In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt.

  2. 8

    Add Ice Water

    Gradually add ice water to the dry mixture until just combined. Do not overmix; the batter should be lumpy.

Assemble & Fry

  1. 9

    Prepare Oil

    Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or pot to 350°F (175°C).

  2. 10

    Assemble the Roll

    On a bamboo sushi mat, lay out a sheet of nori (seaweed). Spread a thin layer of sushi rice over the nori, leaving a small border at the top. Arrange the crab, avocado, cucumber, and masago in a line across the center.

  3. 11

    Roll the Sushi

    Using the bamboo mat, carefully roll the sushi tightly away from you, pressing gently. Seal the edge with a little water. Slice the roll into bite-sized pieces.

  4. 12

    Dip in Tempura Batter

    Dip each sushi roll in the tempura batter, ensuring it's coated evenly.

  5. 13

    Fry the Rolls

    Carefully place the battered rolls in the hot oil and fry until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes. Remove and drain on paper towels.

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