California Sushi Bowls

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

California Sushi Bowls bring the classic flavors of a California roll without the fuss of rolling. They are simple to prepare, yet offer a rich and satisfying taste with the combination of creamy avocado, seasoned sushi rice, and spicy mayo. This recipe is customizable, allowing you to adjust the ingredients based on personal preferences. You’ll love how fresh and delicious these bowls are, making them perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a fun appetizer at your next gathering.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups dry Calrose Sushi Rice

• 2 cups water

• 1/4 cup seasoned rice vinegar (Marukan)

• 1/4 cup Japanese mayonnaise

• 2 teaspoons sriracha

• 8 oz imitation crab, chopped into small pieces

• 1/2 cup diced English cucumber

• 1-2 nori sheets, chopped or crumbled into small pieces (add more if you’d like)

• 1 large avocado, peeled and sliced

• Black and toasted sesame seeds for garnish

• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce for serving

• Nori Furikake

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Rinse the 1 1/2 cups of sushi rice in a mesh sifter until the water runs clear.

2. Add the rice to a rice cooker with 2 cups of water and cook according to your rice cooker’s instructions.

3. Once the rice is cooked, transfer it to a rimmed baking sheet and pour 1/4 cup seasoned rice vinegar over it. Use a rice paddle to gently fold the vinegar into the rice, being careful not to mash the rice. Let the rice cool completely.

4. In a small bowl, prepare the spicy mayo by combining 1/4 cup Japanese mayonnaise with 2 teaspoons of sriracha. Stir well to combine.

5. While the rice is cooling, chop the 8 oz of imitation crab meat and 1/2 cup of English cucumber into small pieces. Break up a few pieces of nori sheets into small bits.

6. In serving bowls, add a scoop of the cooled sushi rice. Top with the chopped crab, cucumber, and sliced avocado.

7. Drizzle the spicy mayo over the ingredients and garnish with chopped nori, sesame seeds, and furikake.

8. Serve with a side of low-sodium soy sauce for dipping, and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 bowls

• Prep Time: 8 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 23 minutes

Variations

• Protein Swap: Instead of imitation crab, use cooked shrimp, tuna, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.

• Veggie Add-ins: Add other veggies like shredded carrots, radishes, or edamame for extra crunch and flavor.

• Spice it Up: If you like things spicier, add more sriracha to the mayo or include sliced jalapeños as a topping.

• Rice Alternatives: If you want to make the dish lighter, consider using cauliflower rice or brown rice instead of white sushi rice.

Storage/Reheating

California Sushi Bowls are best enjoyed fresh. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. Keep the spicy mayo separate from the other ingredients to prevent the rice from getting soggy. When ready to eat, assemble the bowl with the cold rice, add fresh toppings, and drizzle with mayo.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular sushi rice instead of Calrose rice?

Yes, you can use any short-grain sushi rice, but Calrose rice has a specific texture that is ideal for sushi bowls.

2. Can I use real crab instead of imitation crab?

Absolutely! If you prefer real crab meat, feel free to use it in place of imitation crab for a more authentic taste.

3. Can I prepare the sushi rice ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sushi rice up to a day in advance. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container and refrigerate it until you’re ready to use it.

4. Is there a substitute for Japanese mayonnaise?

Japanese mayonnaise has a distinct taste, but if you can’t find it, you can substitute it with regular mayonnaise. Adding a little rice vinegar and a pinch of sugar can help replicate the flavor.

5. Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegan by replacing the imitation crab with marinated tofu or other plant-based protein options and using vegan mayo in place of Japanese mayo.

6. How can I adjust the spice level of the mayo?

To adjust the spice level, simply increase or decrease the amount of sriracha based on your preference. You can also add a bit of wasabi for an extra kick!

7. What can I serve these sushi bowls with?

You can serve these bowls with a side of miso soup, seaweed salad, or pickled ginger for a complete Japanese-inspired meal.

8. Can I use other types of vinegar?

While seasoned rice vinegar is ideal for sushi rice, you can substitute with white vinegar or apple cider vinegar, though the flavor may be slightly different.

9. Can I freeze the sushi bowls?

It’s not recommended to freeze sushi bowls, as the texture of the rice and fresh ingredients like avocado will not hold up well after freezing.

10. What is furikake and where can I find it?

Furikake is a Japanese seasoning made from seaweed, sesame seeds, and sometimes fish flakes. You can find it at Asian grocery stores or in the international aisle of many supermarkets.

Conclusion

California Sushi Bowls offer all the flavors of a California roll in a quick, easy-to-make bowl. With its creamy, savory, and tangy elements, this dish is the perfect balance of freshness and indulgence. Whether you’re new to sushi or just looking for a new way to enjoy the classic flavors, these bowls are sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and customize the toppings to make them your own!

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