Embrace the Art of Hand-Rolled Sushi

Ingredients

  • 2 cups sushi rice
  • 2 ½ cups water
  • ¼ cup rice vinegar
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • Nori (seaweed sheets)
  • Assorted fillings:
    • Sliced cucumber
    • Avocado slices
    • Imitation crab sticks or cooked shrimp
    • Smoked salmon or tuna sashimi
    • Pickled radish (takuan)
  • Soy sauce, pickled ginger, and wasabi (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Rice: Rinse sushi rice under cold water until water runs clear. Combine with water in a rice cooker or pot. Cook until tender.
  2. Season the Rice: Mix rice vinegar, sugar, and salt in a small bowl. Heat slightly to dissolve sugar. Pour over cooked rice and fold gently to combine. Let it cool.
  3. Prepare Fillings: Slice all fillings into thin strips. Lay out on a serving platter for easy access.
  4. Roll Your Sushi:
    • Place a sheet of nori on a bamboo mat or clean surface.
    • Spread a thin layer of rice, leaving a 1-inch space at the top.
    • Add your desired fillings in a line across the center.
    • Roll tightly using the mat, sealing the edge with a bit of water.
  5. Slice & Serve: Cut rolls with a sharp, wet knife. Serve with soy sauce, pickled ginger, and wasabi.

Let me know if you’d like to make this vegetarian, spicy, or adapt it for kids!

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