Jun 09 2026
RestaurantsThirsty LionCalifornia Roll Recipe

California Roll Recipe

Inspired by Thirsty Lion
Time1h
Serves4

Crab, avocado, cucumber, sticky rice.

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Ingredients

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Sushi Rice

Fillings

Assembly

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 sushi rice and water in a rice cooker or pot. Cook according to the rice cooker instructions or bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes until the water is absorbed.

  3. 3

    Season the Rice

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

Prepare Fillings

  1. 4

    Prepare the Crab

    If using imitation crab, shred it into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.

  2. 5

    Slice the Avocado

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

  3. 6

    Slice the Cucumber

    Cut the cucumber in half lengthwise and remove the seeds with a spoon. Slice into thin strips.

Assembly

  1. 7

    Lay Out the Nori

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

  2. 8

    Spread the Rice

    Wet your hands to prevent sticking, then take about 1 cup of sushi rice and spread it evenly over the nori, leaving about 1 inch at the top edge.

  3. 9

    Add Fillings

    Lay a line of shredded crab, avocado, and cucumber along the bottom edge of the rice-covered nori.

  4. 10

    Roll the Sushi

    Using the bamboo mat, roll the nori tightly away from you, applying gentle pressure to keep the roll compact.

  5. 11

    Seal the Roll

    Wet the top edge of the nori with a little water to seal the sushi roll.

  6. 12

    Slice the Roll

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

  7. 13

    Garnish and Serve

    Sprinkle sesame seeds on top of the roll if desired. Serve with soy sauce for dipping.

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