Description
This California Crunch Roll Sushi is a delicious twist on the classic California Roll, featuring creamy avocado, sweet crab, crisp cucumber, and a crunchy tempura flake topping. Learn how to make restaurant-quality sushi at home with this easy step-by-step guide!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Sushi Rice:
- 2 cups sushi rice
- 2 cups water
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
For the Filling:
- 8 oz imitation crab (or real crab meat)
- 1 cucumber, julienned
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 4 sheets nori (seaweed)
For the Crunch Topping:
- 1/2 cup tempura flakes (or panko breadcrumbs, toasted)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)
For Rolling & Garnishing:
- Bamboo sushi mat
- Plastic wrap (to prevent sticking)
- Soy sauce, for dipping
- Spicy mayo (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Sushi Rice:
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
- Cook the rice in a rice cooker or on the stovetop until tender.
- While the rice is still warm, mix the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt, then gently fold it into the rice using a slicing motion. Let cool to room temperature.
2. Prepare the Tempura Crunch Topping (if not using pre-made flakes):
- Heat a small pan over medium heat and toast panko breadcrumbs until golden brown.
- Set aside for later use.
3. Assemble the Sushi Rolls:
- Lay a sheet of nori on a bamboo sushi mat covered with plastic wrap (shiny side down).
- Spread a thin, even layer of sushi rice over the nori, leaving a 1-inch space at the top.
- Sprinkle tempura flakes or toasted panko over the rice for extra crunch.
- Flip the nori so the rice side faces down (this creates an inside-out roll).
- Arrange crab, cucumber, and avocado in a line across the center.
4. Roll the Sushi:
- Lift the edge of the bamboo mat and gently roll it over the filling, tucking it tightly.
- Continue rolling while applying even pressure to shape a tight sushi roll.
- Sprinkle extra tempura flakes or panko on top for added crunch.
5. Slice & Serve:
- Use a sharp knife to slice the roll into bite-sized pieces, cleaning the blade between cuts.
- Arrange on a plate and garnish with sesame seeds, spicy mayo, or soy sauce.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade California Crunch Roll Sushi!
Notes
- For extra crunch, coat the roll lightly with tempura batter and fry it for a crispy tempura-fried sushi roll.
- Spicy variation: Mix crab meat with spicy mayo for a bold kick.
- Serving tip: Enjoy with pickled ginger, soy sauce, and wasabi for an authentic sushi experience!
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Rolling
- Cuisine: Japanese
