The California Roll is a popular sushi roll that originated in Los Angeles in the 1960s. This roll features imitation crab, avocado, and cucumber, rolled in seaweed and rice. It’s known for its outside layer of sesame seeds or tobiko, giving it a distinctive look. Despite its name, there’s no direct connection to the state of California.
| Country | United States |
| Degree of Difficulty | Easy |
| Type of Food | Starter |
| Cooking Time | 20 minutes |
| Preparation Time | 15 minutes |
| Total Time | 35 minutes |
| Serving Size | 2-4 people |
Ingredients:
- 2 cups sushi rice
- 2 sheets nori (seaweed)
- 1/2 cup imitation crab, shredded
- 1 ripe avocado, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cucumber, julienned
- Soy sauce, for dipping
- Sesame seeds or tobiko (fish roe) for coating
Instructions:
- Cook sushi rice according to package instructions and let it cool.
- Place a sheet of nori on a bamboo sushi rolling mat.
- Wet your hands and spread a thin layer of sushi rice over the nori, leaving a small border at the top.
- Arrange crab, avocado, and cucumber along the center.
- Roll the sushi tightly using the bamboo mat, moistening the top border to seal.
- Coat the outside with sesame seeds or tobiko.
- Slice the roll into bite-sized pieces with a sharp knife.
- Repeat for the remaining nori and ingredients.
- Serve with soy sauce.
Nutritional Information: (per serving)
| Calories | 220 kcal |
| Fat | 5g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Sugar | 1g |
| Fiber | 2g |
Optional Additions or Substitutions:
- Add a touch of wasabi for extra heat.
- Include real crab or shrimp for a seafood twist.
Tips or Variations:
- Use a bamboo mat for easier rolling.
- Keep a bowl of water nearby to wet your hands and knife.
Other Countries:
- Besides the United States, the California Roll is popular globally in sushi restaurants
Allergen Checklist:
- Check imitation crab for potential allergens.
Suitable for Vegan/Vegetarian:
- I is suitable for Vegan/Vegeterian if imitation crab is plant-based, or you can substitute it with tofu or more vegetables.
