Do you want to try something new and exciting? How about trying out the California Roll Sushi Bowls? They are a fun and delicious way to enjoy the classic flavors of California sushi rolls, but in a convenient bowl format that you can customize according to your preference. These bowls are perfect for meal prep or a quick and easy weeknight dinner. They are packed with fresh ingredients like sushi rice, seasoned seaweed (nori), avocado, cucumber, and imitation crab meat. They are topped with a creamy avocado or spicy mayo sauce that will surely delight your taste buds.
Detailed Recipe
Ingredients:
Sushi Base:
- 1 ½ cups sushi rice
- 1 ¾ cups water
- 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
Bowl Fillings:
- 8 ounces imitation crab meat, shredded
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 sheet nori seaweed, cut into thin strips
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
Optional Veggies:
- Chopped carrots
- Edamame
- Pickled ginger
- Sliced mango
Sauces:
For Avocado Sauce:
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Pinch of salt
- Pinch of black pepper
For Spicy Mayo Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Sriracha sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
Instructions:
- Cook the Rice: Rinse the sushi rice in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear. In a saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, water, rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and all the liquid has been absorbed. Let the rice cool slightly.
- Prepare the Fillings: While the rice cooks, shred the imitation crab meat, slice the avocado and cucumber, and cut the nori seaweed into thin strips. Toast the sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden brown, watching closely to avoid burning.
- Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cooked sushi rice among bowls. Top with the shredded imitation crab meat, sliced avocado, cucumber, and nori strips. Add any additional desired vegetables like carrots, edamame, pickled ginger, or sliced mango.
- Make the Sauce (Choose One):
- Avocado Sauce: In a blender or food processor, combine the avocado flesh, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Spicy Mayo Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Sriracha sauce, and soy sauce.
- Serve & Enjoy! Drizzle each bowl with your desired sauce and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds. Serve immediately.
Tips:
- Prepping in Advance: Cook the sushi rice and chop the vegetables ahead of time for even faster assembly.
- Make it a Party: Set out all the ingredients and let everyone create their own custom California Roll Sushi Bowls.
- Leftovers: Store leftover sushi rice and fillings in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.