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California Rolls at Home

Crispy, creamy California rolls with imitation crab, avocado, and cucumber—no raw fish required. A fun, achievable dinner that beats takeout.

Total time
45 min
Servings
2
Calories
320
Protein
8g
California Rolls at Home
casualfunjapanesecrispycreamytenderBreadweeknight

Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1

    Cook sushi rice according to package directions. Spread on a plate to cool, ~5 minutes.

  2. Step 2

    Whisk rice vinegar and sugar together until sugar dissolves.

  3. Step 3

    Fold vinegar mixture into cooled rice until evenly coated. Let cool to room temperature.

  4. Step 4

    Cut crab stick into thin matchsticks about 3 inches long.

  5. Step 5

    Slice avocado in half, remove the pit, and cut into thin lengthwise slices.

  6. Step 6

    Cut cucumber in half lengthwise, then slice into thin matchsticks about 3 inches long.

  7. Step 7

    Place one nori sheet shiny-side down on a bamboo mat. Wet your fingertips with water.

  8. Step 8

    Spread about 3/4 cup rice evenly across the nori, leaving a 1/2-inch border at the top.

  9. Step 9

    Lay crab, avocado, and cucumber in a tight line across the center third of the rice.

  10. Step 10

    Roll tightly from the bottom, using the mat to guide. Seal the edge with water.

  11. Step 11

    Repeat with the second nori sheet and remaining fillings.

  12. Step 12

    Slice each roll into 8 pieces using a sharp, wet knife with a gentle sawing motion.

  13. Step 13

    Mix soy sauce and wasabi in a small bowl.

  14. Step 14

    Serve rolls with soy-wasabi dipping sauce immediately.

Tools you’ll need

  • pot with lid
  • plate
  • small bowl
  • bamboo sushi mat
  • sharp knife
  • cutting board

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