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Homemade Crunchy California Roll Recipe topped with golden panko

Crunchy California Roll Recipe


  • Author: Velma
  • Total Time: PT35M
  • Yield: 4 rolls 1x

Description

This Crunchy California Roll combines the creamy, fresh flavors of a California roll with the irresistible crispiness of toasted panko breadcrumbs. Perfect for sushi night at home, it delivers a satisfying texture in every bite.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked sushi rice (seasoned with rice vinegar, sugar, and salt)
  • 4 sheets nori (seaweed)
  • 1 cup imitation crab sticks, shredded
  • 1 ripe avocado, sliced
  • 1 small cucumber, julienned
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp sriracha (optional, for spicy flavor)
  • Soy sauce, pickled ginger, and wasabi for serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crunch Topping:
    • Heat a skillet over medium heat and toast panko breadcrumbs until golden and crispy. Set aside to cool.
  2. Prepare the Filling:
    • In a small bowl, mix shredded imitation crab with mayonnaise (and sriracha if making it spicy).
  3. Assemble the Roll:
    • Place a bamboo sushi mat on a clean surface and cover with plastic wrap.
    • Lay a sheet of nori (shiny side down) on the mat. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice evenly over the nori.
    • Flip the nori so the rice side faces down.
    • Place crab mixture, avocado slices, and cucumber strips along the edge closest to you.
  4. Roll the Sushi:
    • Using the mat, roll the sushi tightly away from you. Press gently to shape.
  5. Add the Crunch:
    • Roll the sushi over the toasted panko to coat the outside. Press lightly so the crumbs stick.
  6. Slice and Serve:
    • Cut each roll into 8 pieces with a sharp, wet knife.
    • Serve with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger.
  • Prep Time: PT30M
  • Cook Time: PT5M
  • Category: Sushi
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: Japanese-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8 pieces
  • Calories: 260kcal
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 560mg
  • Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 7g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg