Global Japanese Sushi Rolls

Name: Global Japanese Sushi Rolls
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 rolls
Ingredients: 2 cups sushi rice; 2 1/2 cups water; 1/4 cup rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 4 sheets nori (seaweed); 200g fresh salmon, thinly sliced; 1 avocado, sliced; 1 cucumber, julienned; Soy sauce, for serving; Wasabi, for serving; Pickled ginger, for serving

I absolutely love making sushi rolls at home, and this recipe for Global Japanese Sushi Rolls has become my go-to. The combination of fresh ingredients, flavorful rice, and creamy sauces creates an irresistible dish that never fails to impress. Whether for a special occasion or a casual meal, rolling sushi is an enjoyable experience. Plus, it allows for creativity in choosing fillings and toppings. I can’t wait to share my favorite tips and techniques to help you create sushi rolls that rival your favorite sushi restaurant.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2026-02-03T17:53:28.039Z

Making sushi rolls is an art that I've enjoyed perfecting over the years. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavors. I experimented with different types of fish and vegetables, but I found that a blend of fresh salmon, avocado, and cucumber works beautifully together. Using high-quality sushi rice is essential, and I often season mine just right to enhance the overall taste.

One of my favorite techniques is to prepare a homemade soy sauce dip that includes a hint of wasabi and sesame oil. This simple addition elevates the entire dish, bringing out the freshness of the ingredients. I always encourage friends to try making their own sushi – it’s so rewarding to see the smiles on everyone’s faces when they taste their creations.

        Why You'll Love These Sushi Rolls
        Fresh, vibrant flavors that transport you to Japan
Customizable fillings to suit every palate
A fun, hands-on cooking experience perfect for gatherings

      

Understanding Sushi Rice

The heart of any great sushi roll lies in the rice. Sushi rice is short-grain and sticky, allowing it to hold together well when rolled. It's essential to rinse the rice thoroughly to remove excess starch, which can make the rice gummy rather than fluffy. Make sure to rinse until the water runs clear, taking about 3-5 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect consistency that makes sushi deliciously enjoyable.

Once cooked, folding in the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt is what transforms plain rice into sushi rice. The combination of these ingredients not only adds flavor but also enhances the rice's stickiness. Let the rice cool to room temperature before making your rolls; this prevents the nori from becoming too soggy when wrapped. Preparing your rice with care pays off in the final presentation and taste of your sushi rolls.

Mastering the Roll

Rolling sushi can be an art form, but with some practice, you'll get the hang of it. One key tip is to maintain even pressure when rolling to avoid squishing the ingredients out the sides. It's beneficial to use a bamboo sushi mat for support. As you roll, use your fingers to tuck in the filling while keeping the roll tight; it helps create those beautiful, uniform rolls that look and taste professional.

To achieve clean cuts when slicing your rolls, a sharp, wet knife is essential. After each cut, wipe the blade to prevent stickiness from the rice, which can cause uneven pieces. A good rule is to slice firmly yet gently; you want to see those vibrant colors of your fillings without mashing them. Aim for 6-8 pieces, which is perfect for sharing or enjoying yourself!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create these delicious sushi rolls:

Sushi Ingredients

2 cups sushi rice
2 1/2 cups water
1/4 cup rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
4 sheets nori (seaweed)
200g fresh salmon, thinly sliced
1 avocado, sliced
1 cucumber, julienned
Soy sauce, for serving
Wasabi, for serving
Pickled ginger, for serving

Make sure to choose the freshest ingredients for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to roll your sushi:

Prepare the Sushi Rice

Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Combine the rinsed rice with 2 1/2 cups of water in a rice cooker or pot. Cook according to the rice cooker's instructions or bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes. Remove from heat and let it stand for 10 minutes. Mix rice vinegar, sugar, and salt in a small bowl until dissolved and fold this into the cooked rice.

Assemble the Sushi Rolls

Place a sheet of nori on a bamboo sushi mat, shiny side down. Wet your hands with water to prevent the rice from sticking, then grab a fistful of sushi rice and spread it evenly over the nori, leaving a 1-inch border at the top. Lay a few pieces of salmon, avocado, and cucumber across the rice. Lift the mat and roll the sushi tightly away from you, gently pressing to keep everything together.

Finish and Serve

Use a sharp knife to slice the roll into 6-8 pieces. Wipe the knife with a wet cloth after each cut to keep the edges clean. Serve the sushi rolls with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger on the side.

Enjoy your homemade sushi with friends and family!

Pro Tips

Experiment with different fillings like crab, tempura vegetables, or mango for a twist on traditional sushi rolls.

Ingredient Variations and Substitutions

While fresh salmon is a traditional filling, you can easily swap it out for alternatives like cooked shrimp, crab, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just ensure any seafood is sushi-grade if you’re using it raw. Additionally, for a spicy kick, try adding spicy mayo, which can easily be made by mixing mayonnaise with sriracha sauce.

Vegetables can also be tailored to your taste preferences! For instance, you might use bell peppers, shredded carrots, or even roasted sweet potatoes. Consider your audience; if anyone is allergic to certain ingredients, like avocados, it’s easy to leave them out or replace them with something safely enjoyed by all.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Sushi rolls are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can keep for up to 24 hours; however, the nori may lose its crisp texture. For a quick snack, you might enjoy eating any leftover rolls the next day, but consider separating your rolls and any sauces or vibrant garnishes for best freshness.

To elevate your sushi experience, consider creating a sushi platter with various rolls and toppings. Offer a selection of sauces like eel sauce, ginger, and wasabi for dipping. You can also include a side of edamame or miso soup for a complete meal. Making sushi becomes not just a culinary experience but also a fun, shareable feast!

Questions About Recipes

→ What type of rice should I use for sushi?

Use short-grain sushi rice for the best texture and stickiness.

→ Can I make sushi rolls vegetarian?

Absolutely! Layer in vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and avocados.

→ How do I store leftover sushi?

Wrap leftover sushi tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. Consume within a day for the best quality.

→ What type of nori is best for sushi?

Look for high-quality nori that's dark green and has a crisp texture for the best results.