Simple California Rolls Sushi Bowl Recipe
A refreshing and easy-to-make deconstructed sushi bowl inspired by the classic California roll. This recipe features perfectly cooked sushi rice topped with shredded imitation crab, fresh cucumber, creamy avocado, nori strips, and toasted sesame seeds. It’s a quick and satisfying way to enjoy sushi flavors without the rolling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Stovetop
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients
Scale
Rice
- 2 cups sushi rice
- 2 1/2 cups water
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Toppings
- 8 oz imitation crab meat, shredded
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 2 sheets nori, cut into strips
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
- Soy sauce for serving
Instructions
- Rinse the rice: Rinse 2 cups of sushi rice under cold running water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch and prevent stickiness.
- Cook the rice: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice with 2 1/2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes. Remove from heat and let it stand covered for 10 more minutes to steam.
- Prepare toppings: While the rice is cooking, shred 8 oz of imitation crab meat. Dice 1 cucumber and slice 1 avocado just before serving to keep it fresh. Cut 2 sheets of nori into thin strips.
- Season the rice: In a small bowl, mix 1/4 cup rice vinegar, 2 tablespoons sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon salt until dissolved. Gently fold this sushi vinegar mixture into the warm rice to season it evenly. Let the rice cool slightly.
- Assemble the bowls: Divide the seasoned sushi rice evenly among serving bowls. Top each with shredded crab meat, diced cucumber, and avocado slices.
- Garnish: Sprinkle 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds and nori strips over each bowl. Serve with soy sauce on the side for dipping.
Notes
- To keep avocado slices fresh and prevent browning, slice them just before assembling the bowls.
- For extra authenticity, serve with pickled ginger and wasabi on the side.
- Use leftover sushi rice to make onigiri or rice balls for another meal.
- If you prefer, substitute imitation crab with cooked real crab meat or cooked shrimp.
Keywords: California roll, sushi bowl, sushi rice, imitation crab, avocado, cucumber, nori, sesame seeds, easy sushi recipe
