Simple California Roll Sushi Bowls: Deconstructed Delight (Print Version)

Enjoy these simple California Roll Sushi Bowls! Get all the fresh flavors of your favorite sushi roll in an easy-to-make, deconstructed bowl.

# Recipe Info:

Prep Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: Japanese-American
Dietary: Pescatarian (can be made vegetarian)

# Ingredients:

→ Base Ingredients

01 - 2 cups sushi rice, uncooked
02 - 2 ½ cups water
03 - ½ cup rice vinegar
04 - 2 tbsp granulated sugar
05 - 1 tsp salt

→ Protein & Creaminess

06 - 1 lb imitation crab meat, flaked
07 - ½ cup mayonnaise (Kewpie if possible)
08 - 1-2 tbsp sriracha (to taste)

→ Fresh Garnishes

09 - 1 large cucumber, thinly sliced
10 - 2 ripe avocados, sliced
11 - 2-3 sheets nori (seaweed), cut into strips or crumbled

→ Flavor Boosters

12 - 2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
13 - ¼ cup green onions, chopped
14 - Soy sauce, for drizzling (optional)

# Instructions:

01 - First things first, rinse your sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This is where I used to skip steps, and trust me, it makes a huge difference in texture! Cook it according to package directions, usually in a 1:1 ratio with water. Once it's done, let it sit, covered, for about 10 minutes. You want it fluffy, yet sticky, ready for all those amazing flavors in your Easy California Roll Sushi Bowls. The aroma of freshly cooked rice is just comforting, isn't it?
02 - While the rice is still warm, gently transfer it to a large, non-metallic bowl. In a small separate bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until the sugar and salt are dissolved. Pour this mixture evenly over the warm rice. Using a wooden spoon or spatula, fold and cut the seasoning into the rice, trying not to mash it. This step infuses the rice with that classic sushi flavor. I always taste a little at this point—it should be perfectly balanced, sweet, and tangy!
03 - In another bowl, flake your imitation crab meat into small pieces. Add the mayonnaise and sriracha. Mix it all up until the crab is evenly coated and looks deliciously creamy. You can adjust the sriracha here; I usually go a little heavy because I love a spicy kick! This is such an easy, flavorful component for your Easy California Roll Sushi Bowls.
04 - Now for the fresh stuff! Thinly slice your cucumber into half-moons or julienne strips. For the avocado, cut it in half, remove the pit, scoop out the flesh, and slice it. This is where I sometimes get a little messy, trying to get those perfect avocado slices without squishing them. Have your nori ready; I often use kitchen shears to cut it into thin strips, which makes it easier to sprinkle.
05 - Time to build! Divide the seasoned sushi rice evenly among your serving bowls. Arrange the crab salad mixture on top of the rice. Next, artfully place your fresh cucumber slices and avocado slices around the bowl. This is the fun part, where you can make each bowl look like a little piece of art. Don't worry if it's not perfect; it's going to taste amazing either way!
06 - Finish off your Easy California Roll Sushi Bowls with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and a generous scattering of chopped green onions. A drizzle of soy sauce is optional, but I think it pulls all the flavors together beautifully. Take a moment to admire your handiwork—the colors, the textures! Then, dive in and enjoy all those fresh, vibrant flavors. It's so satisfying to eat something this delicious that was so simple to put together.

# Notes:

01 - Always rinse your sushi rice until the water runs clear; it makes a huge difference in texture, trust me on this one.
02 - Don't overmix the crab salad; you want it creamy but still with distinct flakes, not a paste.
03 - Invest in a good pair of kitchen shears for cutting nori; it makes life so much easier!
04 - Layer your flavors! Season the rice, then the crab, then the toppings. Each element should taste good on its own.

# Tools You'll Need:

01 - Rice cooker or saucepan
02 - large mixing bowls
03 - whisk
04 - wooden spoon or spatula
05 - sharp knife
06 - cutting board

# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):

Calories: 450-550
Total Fat: 20-30g
Total Carbohydrate: 50-60g
Protein: 15-20g

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