Are you a sushi lover looking to spice up your meal routine? Look no further than the classic California roll! This popular Japanese dish typically consists of cooked crab, cucumber, and avocado wrapped in seaweed and sushi rice. But why settle for just one way when you can try 20 different variations? From spicy twists to vegan options, we’ve got you covered with our delicious California roll recipes.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world of California rolls, featuring unique combinations of ingredients that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re a seasoned sushi enthusiast or just starting out, there’s something for everyone in this collection of mouth-watering recipes.
Classic California Roll with Crab and Avocado
This iconic Japanese-inspired dish is a staple of California cuisine. With succulent crab meat, creamy avocado, and tender sushi rice, this recipe is sure to satisfy any craving.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Japanese short-grain rice
– 1/2 cup imitation crab meat (surimi)
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. Cut the surimi into small pieces and mix with soy sauce and sesame oil.
3. Lay a sheet of nori seaweed flat on a cutting board.
4. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
5. Place the surimi mixture in the middle of the rice, followed by diced avocado.
6. Roll the sushi using a bamboo mat or your hands, applying gentle pressure.
7. Slice into 8 equal pieces and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Spicy California Roll with Sriracha Mayo
Elevate your sushi game with this spicy twist on the classic California roll, featuring creamy Sriracha mayo and crunchy tempura bits.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup short-grain rice (sushi rice)
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup chopped cucumber
– 1/4 cup diced avocado
– 1/2 cup cooked and cooled tempura bits (such as shrimp or vegetables)
– 1 tablespoon Sriracha sauce
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together chopped cucumber, diced avocado, and cooked tempura bits.
3. Lay a sheet of nori seaweed flat on a surface. Spread a thin layer of prepared sushi rice onto the seaweed.
4. Place the cucumber-avocado-tempura mixture in the center of the rice, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
5. Roll the sushi using a bamboo mat or your hands, applying gentle pressure.
6. Slice the roll into 8 equal pieces.
7. Mix Sriracha sauce and mayonnaise together to create the Sriracha mayo. Serve with the Spicy California rolls.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (preparing sushi rice and tempura bits)
California Roll with Cucumber and Sesame Seeds
This refreshing take on a classic California roll adds the cooling crunch of cucumber and the nutty flavor of sesame seeds, making it perfect for warm weather or as a unique appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Japanese rice
– 1/2 avocado, sliced
– 1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced
– 1 sheet nori seaweed
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Lay the nori sheet flat on a surface.
2. Spread a thin layer of Japanese rice onto the nori, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
3. Arrange the sliced avocado and cucumber horizontally in the middle of the rice.
4. Drizzle soy sauce and sesame oil over the filling.
5. Roll the sushi using a bamboo mat or your hands, applying gentle pressure.
6. Slice into 8 equal pieces and garnish with sesame seeds.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None required!
Baked California Roll with Cream Cheese
Transform your favorite sushi roll into a creamy, cheesy delight with this simple recipe. Perfect for parties or as a unique dinner option!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of California roll rice and nori sheets
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1/4 cup diced imitation crab meat (or real crab if preferred)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the California roll rice and nori sheets into desired shapes or sizes for baking.
3. In a bowl, mix together softened cream cheese, chopped green onions, and diced imitation crab meat.
4. Place the cream cheese mixture onto the baked California roll pieces, spreading evenly.
5. Drizzle with soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cream cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
California Roll with Tempura Shrimp
This classic California roll gets a delicious twist with the addition of crispy tempura shrimp. A perfect combination of textures and flavors, this dish is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Japanese rice
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup sushi vinegar
– 1/2 avocado, sliced
– 1/2 cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup tempura shrimp (see below for recipe)
– Sesame seeds and soy sauce for garnish
Tempura Shrimp Recipe:
– 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup ice-cold soda water
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Prepare sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. Slice avocado and cucumber into thin pieces.
3. Cook tempura shrimp by dusting with flour, then dipping in soda water, and finally coating with cornstarch. Fry until crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Assemble the California roll by spreading a layer of sushi rice onto nori seaweed sheets, adding sliced avocado and cucumber, and finishing with tempura shrimp.
5. Serve immediately with soy sauce and sesame seeds.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Vegan California Roll with Tofu and Mango
A refreshing twist on the classic California roll, this vegan version features tender tofu and sweet mango, wrapped in a crispy seaweed sheet.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked and crumbled tofu
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/2 cup sushi rice
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. In a small bowl, mix together tofu, mango, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
3. Lay the nori sheet flat on a cutting board.
4. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto the nori sheet, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
5. Place the tofu-mango mixture in the center of the rice.
6. Roll the nori sheet tightly but gently to form a compact roll.
7. Slice into bite-sized pieces and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
California Roll with Smoked Salmon
This recipe puts a unique spin on the traditional California roll by substituting classic crab meat with smoked salmon, adding a rich and savory flavor to this Japanese-inspired dish.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup cooked Japanese rice
– 1/2 cup imitation crab meat (or substitute with cooked and flaked salmon)
– 1/4 cup sushi-grade smoked salmon, thinly sliced
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: pickled ginger slices for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. Lay a sheet of nori seaweed flat on a surface. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
3. Place imitation crab meat (or cooked salmon) in the center of the rice.
4. Arrange smoked salmon slices on top of the crab meat.
5. Drizzle soy sauce and sesame oil over the roll.
6. Roll the sushi using a bamboo mat or a clean tea towel, applying gentle pressure.
7. Slice into 8 equal pieces and serve with pickled ginger slices if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (preparing ingredients)
California Roll with Spicy Tuna
This recipe combines the familiar flavors of California roll sushi with the bold kick of spicy tuna. The result is a unique and delicious take on a classic dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Japanese rice
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup avocado, sliced
– 1/2 cup canned tuna mixed with 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
– 1 sheet nori seaweed
– Sesame seeds and soy sauce for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. Cut the cucumber and avocado into thin slices.
3. Mix the canned tuna with sriracha sauce.
4. Lay a sheet of nori seaweed flat on a cutting board.
5. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
6. Arrange the cucumber, avocado, and spicy tuna slices horizontally across the middle of the rice.
7. Roll the sushi using a bamboo mat or your hands, applying gentle pressure.
8. Slice into individual pieces and serve with soy sauce and sesame seeds (if desired).
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
California Roll with Masago and Green Onion
California Roll with Masago and Green Onion Recipe
California Roll with Wasabi Mayo
This classic California roll gets a spicy kick from a dollop of wasabi mayonnaise, adding a tangy and savory flavor to this iconic sushi dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Japanese rice
– 1/2 avocado, sliced
– 1/2 cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup imitation crab meat (surimi)
– 1 sheet nori seaweed
– Wasabi mayonnaise (see below for recipe)
Wasabi Mayo Recipe:
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 teaspoon wasabi paste
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. Cut the nori sheet into desired size and shape.
3. Place a thin layer of sushi rice onto the nori, leaving a small border at the top.
4. Arrange the avocado, cucumber, and surimi on top of the rice.
5. Fold the nori over the filling to form a roll.
6. Serve with wasabi mayonnaise drizzled on top.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (including preparation time)
California Roll with Pickled Ginger
Experience the perfect blend of flavors and textures with this classic California roll recipe, elevated by the tangy crunch of pickled ginger.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup short-grain Japanese rice (preferably Koshihikari or Akita Komachi)
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 sheet nori seaweed
– 1/2 avocado, sliced
– 1/2 cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup pickled ginger, thinly sliced (see note)
– Sesame seeds and soy sauce for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Japanese rice according to package instructions using the water and salt.
2. Cut the nori sheet into desired size for rolling.
3. Lay a sheet of nori flat on a cutting board or other surface.
4. Spread a thin layer of cooked rice onto the nori, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
5. Arrange the sliced avocado, cucumber, and pickled ginger horizontally across the center of the rice.
6. Roll the sushi using a gentle pressure to compress the ingredients.
7. Slice into individual pieces and serve with soy sauce and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including cooking time for rice)
California Roll with Soy Paper Wrap
A refreshing twist on the classic California roll, this recipe uses soy paper wrap instead of traditional nori seaweed sheets, making it a great option for those looking for a gluten-free or vegan alternative.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup cooked and cooled sushi rice
– 1/4 cup cucumber slices
– 1/4 cup avocado slices
– 1/4 cup imitation crab meat (or real crab if preferred)
– 1 sheet soy paper wrap
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the soy paper wrap into a square shape.
2. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto the center of the soy paper, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
3. Arrange the cucumber, avocado, and imitation crab meat on top of the rice in a horizontal line.
4. Roll the soy paper tightly but gently to form a compact roll.
5. Slice into individual pieces and serve with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (preparation time)
California Roll with Brown Rice
Experience the classic flavors of California rolls with a nutritious twist by using brown rice instead of traditional white rice. This simple recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked brown rice
– 1/2 cup sushi-grade imitation crab meat (or real crab if preferred)
– 1/2 avocado, sliced
– 1/4 cucumber, sliced
– 1 sheet nori seaweed
– Soy sauce and wasabi for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Lay a sheet of nori seaweed flat on a surface.
2. Place the cooked brown rice onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
3. Arrange the imitation crab meat, avocado slices, and cucumber slices horizontally across the rice.
4. Roll the sushi using a bamboo mat or your hands, applying gentle pressure to form a compact roll.
5. Slice into 8 equal pieces using a sharp knife.
6. Serve with soy sauce and wasabi for added flavor (optional).
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
California Roll with Spicy Crab Salad
Experience the perfect fusion of flavors with this Spicy Crab California Roll recipe. A twist on the classic sushi roll, this dish adds a kick of heat from the spicy crab salad.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked and chilled Japanese rice
– 1/2 cup imitation crab meat (surimi)
– 1/4 cup spicy crab salad (see below for recipe)
– 1 sheet nori seaweed
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt to taste
Spicy Crab Salad:
– 1/2 cup lump crab meat
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the spicy crab salad by combining all ingredients in a bowl and mixing well.
2. Lay the nori sheet flat on a surface. Spread a thin layer of Japanese rice onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
3. Place the imitation crab meat along the center of the rice, leaving space at either end.
4. Spoon the spicy crab salad over the crab meat.
5. Roll the sushi using a bamboo mat or your hands, applying gentle pressure to form a compact roll.
6. Slice into 8 equal pieces and serve with soy sauce and sesame oil.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
California Roll with Eel Sauce Drizzle
This recipe combines the classic flavors of a California roll with the rich sweetness of eel sauce, creating a delicious and elegant sushi experience. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create this mouthwatering dish at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Japanese rice
– 1/2 cup imitation crab meat (surimi)
– 1/4 cup cucumber slices
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed
– Eel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. Cut the imitation crab meat into small pieces.
3. Assemble the roll by spreading a thin layer of rice onto nori seaweed, followed by cucumber slices and crab meat.
4. Roll the sushi using a bamboo mat or your hands.
5. Slice the roll into 8 equal pieces.
6. Drizzle eel sauce over the top of each piece.
7. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including preparation time)
California Roll with Jalapeño Slices
California Roll with Jalapeño Slices Recipe
Experience the perfect fusion of Japanese and Mexican flavors with this unique California Roll recipe, featuring spicy jalapeño slices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked sushi rice
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 sheet nori seaweed (dried)
– 1/2 avocado, sliced
– 1/2 cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup crab stick, flaked
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and sliced into thin strips
– Sushi vinegar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. Combine cooked rice with water, salt, and a pinch of sugar in a large bowl. Mix well until sticky and clumpy.
3. Lay nori sheet flat on a clean surface. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto the seaweed, leaving 1 inch at the top.
4. Arrange avocado, cucumber, crab stick, and jalapeño slices horizontally across the middle of the rice.
5. Roll the sushi using a bamboo mat or your hands. Apply gentle pressure to form a compact roll.
6. Slice into individual pieces if desired. Serve with sushi vinegar for added flavor (optional).
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
California Roll with Sesame Oil Infusion
Elevate your sushi game with this flavorful twist on the classic California roll. The addition of sesame oil infusion adds a nutty and aromatic depth to the dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked and cooled Japanese rice
– 1/2 avocado, sliced
– 1/2 cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup imitation crab meat (surimi)
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 sheet nori seaweed
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. In a small bowl, mix together cooked Japanese rice and sesame oil until well combined.
3. Lay a sheet of nori seaweed flat on a cutting board.
4. Spread a thin layer of the sesame-infused rice onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
5. Arrange the avocado, cucumber, and surimi in the middle of the rice.
6. Roll the sushi using a bamboo sushi mat or your hands, applying gentle pressure.
7. Slice into 8 equal pieces and serve with soy sauce and wasabi, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
California Roll with Teriyaki Glaze
This sweet and savory California roll recipe combines the classic flavors of sushi with a sticky teriyaki glaze, perfect for a quick and easy dinner or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked and cooled Japanese rice
– 1/2 cup imitation crab meat (or real crab if preferred)
– 1/4 cup cucumber slices
– 1/4 cup avocado slices
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed
– Teriyaki glaze ingredients:
+ 1/2 cup soy sauce
+ 1/4 cup brown sugar
+ 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
Instructions:
1. Prepare the filling by combining cooked rice, imitation crab meat, cucumber slices, and avocado slices.
2. Lay a sheet of nori seaweed flat on a cutting board.
3. Spread a thin layer of rice mixture onto the seaweed, leaving a small border at the top.
4. Roll the sushi tightly but gently, applying even pressure to form a compact roll.
5. To make the teriyaki glaze, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, and rice vinegar in a small bowl.
6. Brush the glaze over the rolled sushi for a sweet and savory finish.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including prep time)
California Roll with Crispy Panko Topping
Experience the classic flavors of California rolls with a delightful twist – a crispy panko topping that adds crunch and texture to this beloved sushi dish. This recipe is perfect for sushi lovers and those looking to elevate their cooking skills.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Japanese rice
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 sheet nori seaweed
– 1/2 avocado, sliced
– 1/4 cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1/4 crab stick, diced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare Japanese rice according to package instructions.
2. Cut nori seaweed sheet into desired size for rolling.
3. Lay a nori sheet flat and spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto it, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
4. Arrange avocado, cucumber, carrot, and crab stick on the rice.
5. Roll the sushi using a bamboo mat or your hands, applying gentle pressure to form a compact roll.
6. In a pan over medium heat, toast panko breadcrumbs with sesame oil until golden brown and crispy.
7. Slice the rolled sushi into 8 equal pieces. Top each piece with toasted panko crumbs.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
California Roll with Fresh Lemon Zest
Elevate your sushi game with this refreshing twist on the classic California roll, featuring bright and citrusy lemon zest.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup cooked Japanese rice
– 1/4 cup imitation crab meat (or real crab if you prefer)
– 1/4 cup cucumber, thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh lemon zest
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. Cut the imitation crab meat into small pieces and set aside.
3. In a separate pan, heat the soy sauce and sesame oil over low heat.
4. Add the sliced cucumber to the pan and cook for 30 seconds.
5. Roll out the cooked sushi rice on a flat surface to your desired thickness.
6. Place the cooked crab meat, cucumber mixture, and grated lemon zest in the middle of the rice.
7. Fold the sides and roll the sushi tightly but gently.
8. Slice into individual pieces and serve with soy sauce and lemon wedges.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to roll with these delicious California roll recipes! From classic combinations like crab and avocado to spicy twists with sriracha mayo, there’s something for every sushi lover. Try baking your roll with cream cheese or adding tempura shrimp for a crispy texture. For vegans, there’s a tofu and mango option, while seafood enthusiasts will love the smoked salmon or spicy tuna variations. And don’t forget to top it off with wasabi mayo, pickled ginger, or fresh lemon zest for an added burst of flavor. Whether you’re a sushi newbie or a seasoned pro, these 20 recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
