SUSHI ROLLS WITH AVOCADO AND CUCUMBER

by

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup sushi rice
  • 1¼ cups water
  • 2 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 4 sheets of nori (seaweed)
  • 1 ripe avocado, thinly sliced
  • ½ cucumber, julienned
  • Soy sauce, for serving
  • Pickled ginger and wasabi (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare the Sushi Rice:

  1. Rinse the rice: Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then drain.
  2. Cook the rice: In a pot, combine the rice and water. Bring to a boil, cover, and reduce the heat to low. Cook for about 15 minutes, then remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 10 more minutes.
  3. Season the rice: In a small bowl, mix the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until dissolved. Gently fold this mixture into the cooked rice, then let it cool to room temperature.

Assemble the Sushi Rolls:

  1. Lay out the nori: Place one sheet of nori on a bamboo sushi mat (shiny side down).
  2. Add rice: Wet your fingers to prevent sticking, then spread a thin, even layer of rice over the nori, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
  3. Add fillings: Arrange a few slices of avocado and cucumber along the center of the rice.
  4. Roll the sushi: Use the sushi mat to carefully roll the nori over the fillings, pressing firmly but gently. Wet the top border of the nori to seal the roll.
  5. Slice: Use a sharp knife to slice the roll into 6-8 pieces.

Serve:

  • Arrange the sushi on a plate and serve with soy sauce, pickled ginger, and wasabi if desired.

Tips:

  • For a twist, try adding carrot strips, bell peppers, or tofu for extra flavor.
  • Keep a small bowl of water nearby to dip your fingers, preventing the rice from sticking.