California Roll Sushi

User profile image
Chef Big (@chefbig29)

A classic California Roll Sushi made with imitation crabmeat, avocado, and cucumber.

Prep Time
30min
Cook Time
20min
Total Time
50min
California Roll Sushi recipe

Ingredients

4 Servings
(1 serving = 1 roll)

Sushi Rice

  • 1 1/3cups
    water
  • 2/3cup
    uncooked short-grain white rice
  • 3tbsp
    rice vinegar
  • 3tbsp
    white sugar
  • 1 1/2tsp
    salt

Roll Assembly

  • 4
    sheets nori seaweed
  • 1/2lb
    imitation crabmeat, flaked
  • 1piece
    avocado, peeled, pitted, and sliced
  • 1/2piece
    cucumber, peeled, cut into small strips
  • 2tbsp
    pickled ginger

How to make California Roll Sushi

Prepare Sushi Rice

  1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.

  2. Combine the rice and water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.

  3. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes or until the water is absorbed.

  4. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 10 minutes.

  5. In a small bowl, mix the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until dissolved.

  6. Transfer the cooked rice to a large bowl and gently fold in the vinegar mixture. Allow the rice to cool to room temperature.

Assemble the Rolls

  1. Place a sheet of nori on a bamboo sushi mat.

  2. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice over the nori, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.

  3. Arrange the imitation crabmeat, avocado slices, and cucumber strips along the bottom edge of the nori.

  4. Using the bamboo mat, carefully roll the nori over the filling, pressing gently to form a tight roll.

  5. Slice the roll into 6-8 pieces using a sharp knife.

  6. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.

Tips & Tricks

  1. Keep a bowl of water nearby to dip your fingers in while handling the sushi rice to prevent sticking.

  2. Use a sharp knife to cut the rolls for clean slices.

FAQS

  1. How do I make California Roll Sushi step by step?

    To make California Roll Sushi, start by rinsing 0.67 cup of uncooked short-grain white rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Combine the rice with 1.33 cups of water in a saucepan, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes. After removing from heat, let it sit covered for 10 minutes. Mix 3 tbsp of rice vinegar, 3 tbsp of white sugar, and 1.5 tsp of salt until dissolved, then fold this mixture into the cooled rice. On a bamboo sushi mat, place a sheet of nori, spread a thin layer of rice, and add imitation crabmeat, avocado, and cucumber. Roll tightly and slice into pieces. Repeat with remaining ingredients.

  2. Can I make California Roll Sushi vegan or vegetarian?

    Yes, you can easily make California Roll Sushi vegan or vegetarian by substituting the imitation crabmeat with marinated tofu or additional vegetables like bell peppers or carrots. You can also use avocado and cucumber as the main fillings, making it a delicious plant-based option.

  3. What is the best way to store leftover California Roll Sushi?

    To store leftover California Roll Sushi, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator and consume it within 24 hours for the best taste and texture. Avoid freezing sushi, as it can affect the quality of the rice and fillings.

  4. What can I serve with California Roll Sushi for a complete meal?

    California Roll Sushi pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a side of miso soup, edamame, or a fresh salad with sesame dressing. You can also include pickled ginger and wasabi for added flavor.

  5. What are some good substitutions for ingredients in California Roll Sushi?

    If you don't have imitation crabmeat, you can use cooked shrimp or even canned tuna as a substitute. For the avocado, you can replace it with cream cheese for a different texture. If you don't have nori, you can use rice paper wraps, although the flavor will differ slightly.

Loading reviews...

chefbig29's profile picture
instagram

Chef Big

(@chefbig29)

I am a Thai chef. Cooking mixed food Asian and Western...

chefadora
© 2025 Chefadora Pty Ltd, All Rights Reserved

Marnirni-apinthi Building, Lot Fourteen,
North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000
Australia