Dive into the irresistible allure of homemade California Maki, a sushi roll that encapsulates fresh flavors and vibrant textures. This classic sushi recipe features perfectly seasoned sushi rice rolled with crisp cucumber, creamy avocado, and delicate imitation crab sticks, all embraced by a layer of nori and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for added crunch. Its signature inside-out design showcases the rice on the outside, creating a polished, restaurant-worthy presentation. With just 30 minutes of preparation, this recipe is a fun and approachable way to bring the art of sushi-making to your kitchen. Serve with soy sauce, pickled ginger, and wasabi for a delicious and authentic sushi experience that's perfect for sharing. Whether you're a sushi enthusiast or a novice, California Maki is your gateway to mastering this beloved Japanese favorite!
Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
Combine rinsed rice and water in a rice cooker and cook according to the manufacturer's instructions. Let it sit for 10 minutes after cooking.
In a small saucepan, heat rice vinegar, sugar, and salt over low heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves and remove from heat.
Spread the cooked rice onto a large baking sheet and evenly pour the vinegar mixture over it. Gently fold to combine while fanning the rice to cool it quickly. Cover with a damp cloth and set aside.
Peel and pit the avocado, then cut into thin slices.
Cut the cucumber into long, thin strips, about the same length as the nori sheet.
Place a sheet of nori, shiny side down, on a bamboo sushi mat covered with plastic wrap.
Wet your hands with a mixture of water and rice vinegar to prevent sticking, and take a small handful of rice. Evenly spread a thin layer of rice over the nori sheet, about 3/4 of the way up the sheet.
Sprinkle the top of the rice with toasted sesame seeds.
Flip the nori over so the rice side is down on the plastic wrap.
Place two crab sticks horizontally along the center of the nori.
Add avocado slices and cucumber strips beside the crab sticks.
Spread a thin line of mayonnaise over the fillings.
Using the bamboo mat, carefully roll the sushi away from you, pressing gently but tightly to form a log-shaped roll.
Slice the roll into six to eight equal pieces using a sharp knife, wiping the blade with a damp cloth between cuts for clean slices.
Repeat the process with the remaining ingredients to make more rolls.
Serve the California maki rolls with soy sauce, pickled ginger, and wasabi if desired.
Calories |
1550 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 54.1 g | 69% | |
| Saturated Fat | 6.8 g | 34% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 86 mg | 29% | |
| Sodium | 4960 mg | 216% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 226.9 g | 83% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 17.3 g | 62% | |
| Total Sugars | 52.0 g | ||
| Protein | 42.1 g | 84% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 290 mg | 22% | |
| Iron | 7.8 mg | 43% | |
| Potassium | 1961 mg | 42% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.