Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsTakoSushiJapanese Roll Recipe

Japanese Roll Recipe

Inspired by TakoSushi
Time1h
Serves4

Make Japanese Roll Recipe in just 1h . Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Sushi Rice

Filling

Nori and Seasoning

Method

Prepare Sushi Rice

  1. 1

    Rinse the Rice

    Place the sushi rice in a fine-mesh strainer and rinse it under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps to remove excess starch.

  2. 2

    Cook the Rice

    In a medium pot, combine the rinsed rice and 2.5 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.

  3. 3

    Season the Rice

    Once cooked, remove the rice from heat and let it sit covered for 10 minutes. In a small bowl, mix rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until dissolved. Gently fold this mixture into the rice.

Prepare Fillings

  1. 4

    Slice Vegetables

    Thinly julienne the cucumber, carrot, and avocado. You want them to be long and thin for easy rolling.

  2. 5

    Prepare Crab

    If using crab meat, shred it into smaller pieces. If using imitation crab, break it into strips.

  3. 6

    Mix Cream Cheese

    Soften the cream cheese to room temperature for easier spreading.

Assemble the Rolls

  1. 7

    Lay the Nori

    Place a sheet of nori on a bamboo sushi mat, shiny side down.

  2. 8

    Spread the Rice

    Wet your hands to prevent sticking, then take a handful of sushi rice and spread it evenly over the nori, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.

  3. 9

    Add Fillings

    In the center of the rice, layer the julienned cucumber, carrot, avocado, crab meat, and a line of cream cheese.

  4. 10

    Roll the Sushi

    Using the bamboo mat, lift the edge of the mat closest to you and start rolling it away from you, pressing firmly to keep the roll tight. Continue rolling until you reach the bare edge of the nori.

  5. 11

    Seal the Roll

    Dampen the bare edge of the nori with a little water to seal the roll.

  6. 12

    Slice the Roll

    With a sharp knife, slice the roll into 6-8 pieces. Wipe the knife with a damp cloth between cuts for clean slices.

Serve

  1. 13

    Plate the Sushi

    Arrange the sliced rolls on a plate and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Serve with soy sauce and wasabi on the side.

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