Jun 09 2026
RestaurantsUchi ScottsdaleBlue Crab Gunkan Recipe

Blue Crab Gunkan Recipe

Inspired by Uchi Scottsdale
Time50m
Serves4

thai chili aioli, celery

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Ingredients

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Sushi Rice

Method

Prepare Sushi Rice

  1. 1

    Rinse and Cook Rice

    Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Combine the rinsed rice and water in a rice cooker and cook according to the rice cooker instructions. If cooking on the stovetop, bring the water to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.

  2. 2

    Season the Rice

    Once the rice is cooked, transfer it to a large bowl. Mix rice vinegar, sugar, and salt in a small bowl until dissolved, then gently fold this mixture into the warm rice. Allow it to cool at room temperature.

Prepare Blue Crab Filling

  1. 3

    Mix Ingredients

    In a medium bowl, combine blue crab meat, finely chopped celery, Thai chili aioli, lemon juice, and salt to taste. Mix gently until well combined, being careful not to break up the crab meat too much.

Assemble Gunkan

  1. 4

    Cut Nori Sheets

    Cut the nori sheets into strips that are approximately 2 inches wide and 6 inches long.

  2. 5

    Form Gunkan Shape

    Take a small amount of sushi rice in your hands and mold it into an oval shape, about 1 inch high. Wrap a strip of nori around the rice, allowing it to overlap slightly, and seal the edge with a little water.

  3. 6

    Add Filling

    Spoon the blue crab filling on top of the rice base, allowing it to mound slightly. Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped chives on top for garnish.

  4. 7

    Serve

    Arrange the blue crab gunkan on a serving plate and serve immediately with soy sauce and pickled ginger on the side.

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