Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsSurf WoburnCalifornia Roll Recipe

California Roll Recipe

Inspired by Surf Woburn
Time45m
Serves4

spicy mayo, yuzu tobiko

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Ingredients

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Sushi Rice

Fillings

Toppings

For Rolling

Method

Prepare Sushi Rice

  1. 1

    Rinse the Rice

    Rinse 2 cups of sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch.

  2. 2

    Cook the Rice

    In a rice cooker or pot, combine the rinsed rice with 2.5 cups of water. Cook according to the rice cooker instructions or bring to a boil, then cover and reduce heat to low for 20 minutes.

  3. 3

    Season the Rice

    In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of salt until dissolved. Once the rice is cooked, transfer it to a bowl and gently fold in the vinegar mixture using a wooden spatula. Allow it to cool to room temperature.

Prepare Fillings

  1. 4

    Cut the Vegetables

    Thinly slice 1 medium cucumber and 1 medium avocado. Set aside.

  2. 5

    Prepare Crab Meat

    If using imitation crab meat, shred or cut it into thin strips.

Assemble the Rolls

  1. 6

    Lay Out Nori

    Place a bamboo sushi mat on a flat surface and lay a sheet of nori, shiny side down, on the mat.

  2. 7

    Spread Sushi Rice

    Wet your hands to prevent sticking and grab a handful of sushi rice. Gently spread the rice over the nori, leaving about 1 inch at the top edge.

  3. 8

    Add Fillings

    Place a line of sliced cucumber, avocado, and shredded crab meat across the center of the rice.

  4. 9

    Roll the Sushi

    Lift the edge of the mat closest to you and begin rolling the sushi away from you, tucking the filling in tightly. Continue rolling until you reach the exposed edge of the nori. Moisten the edge with a little water to seal the roll.

Serve the Rolls

  1. 10

    Slice the Rolls

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

  2. 11

    Garnish

    Drizzle the rolls with spicy mayo and sprinkle yuzu tobiko on top before serving.

  3. 12

    Enjoy!

    Serve your California rolls on a platter with additional spicy mayo on the side for dipping.

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