Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsOcean ZenUpgrade Roll Recipe

Upgrade Roll Recipe

Inspired by Ocean Zen
Time1h
Serves2

add $2

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Ingredients

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Roll Base

Fillings

Method

Prepare Sushi Rice

  1. 1

    Cook the Rice

    Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Cook the rice according to the package instructions, typically using a rice cooker or stovetop method.

  2. 2

    Season the Rice

    Once the rice is cooked, transfer it to a large bowl. Mix the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt in a small bowl until dissolved, then pour over the rice. Gently fold the rice with a spatula to combine without mashing it.

Assemble the Roll

  1. 3

    Prepare the Fillings

    Thinly slice the avocado and cucumber. If using whole crab meat, shred it into smaller pieces.

  2. 4

    Lay Out Nori

    Place a nori sheet on a bamboo sushi mat, shiny side down. Wet your hands to prevent sticking.

  3. 5

    Spread the Rice

    With damp fingers, take a handful of sushi rice and spread it evenly over the nori, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.

  4. 6

    Add the Fillings

    Arrange slices of avocado, cucumber, crab meat, and dollops of cream cheese across the center of the rice.

  5. 7

    Roll the Sushi

    Using the sushi mat, lift the edge of the mat closest to you and roll it away from you, pressing gently but firmly to create a tight roll. Continue rolling until the entire roll is formed.

  6. 8

    Seal the Roll

    Use a little water on the edge of the nori to seal the roll. Let it rest seam side down for a few minutes.

  7. 9

    Slice the Roll

    Using a sharp knife, cut the roll into 6-8 equal pieces, wiping the knife with a damp cloth between cuts.

Serve the Roll

  1. 10

    Plate the Sushi

    Arrange the sushi rolls on a serving plate. Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top.

  2. 11

    Add Dipping Sauces

    Serve with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger on the side for dipping.

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