Are you ready to elevate your sushi game at home? Introducing the Volcano Roll—an exciting sushi creation that combines the best of both worlds with its warm, spicy topping and chilled, fresh ingredients. This dramatic sushi roll is not only a feast for the eyes but also a flavor explosion that’s sure to impress your family and friends during your next sushi night. The Volcano Roll features a delectable blend of creamy mayonnaise mixed with spicy sriracha, heaped atop a classic sushi roll filled with fresh avocado and cucumber.
Making sushi at home may seem intimidating, but the Volcano Roll simplifies the process without sacrificing flavor or presentation. You can enjoy this culinary adventure without the need to visit a busy sushi restaurant. With just a few ingredients and 40 minutes of your time, you’ll be able to recreate this masterpiece in your kitchen. Plus, making sushi together can be a fun activity to bond with your loved ones, and you’ll appreciate how satisfying it is to roll and serve your creations.
In this comprehensive guide to making the Volcano Roll, you’ll find tips on how to prepare your ingredients, step-by-step instructions to ensure success, and some variations to consider. Whether you’re an experienced sushi chef or a beginner, you’ll find joy in crafting and tasting this beautifully delicious roll.
Why You’ll Love This Volcano Roll
- Explosive Flavors: The combination of spicy seafood on top of fresh ingredients creates a taste sensation in every bite.
- Unique Presentation: The dramatic look of the Volcano Roll will impress anyone that experiences it.
- Customizable: Easily tweak the ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary restrictions.
- Engaging Activity: Perfect for a fun sushi night with family and friends.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 40 minutes, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the making of your Volcano Roll, it’s essential to set up your workspace effectively. Begin by gathering all your ingredients and tools to avoid scrambling in the middle of the process. You will need a sushi mat for rolling, a sharp knife for slicing, and a rice cooker or pot for preparing your sushi rice. Having everything in easy reach will ensure a smooth preparation process.
Start by rinsing your sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear—this removes excess starch and prevents the rice from being too sticky. After cooking the rice, you’ll want to mix it with rice vinegar, allowing it to cool while you prepare the fillings and toppings. Ensure your cutting board and knife are clean and sanitized to handle the fresh produce, and always slice your ingredients with precision to maintain the visual appeal of your sushi.
Ingredients
- 1 cup sushi rice
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 sheet nori
- 1 avocado
- 1 small cucumber
- 1/2 cup imitation crab or cooked shrimp
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sriracha
- 2 tablespoons unagi sauce
- 1 stalk green onion
- 1 teaspoon black sesame seeds
- 1 teaspoon oil or butter (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Rinse and Cook the Rice
Begin by thoroughly rinsing 1 cup of sushi rice under cold water to wash away excess starch. This process is crucial for achieving perfectly textured sushi rice. Once rinsed, cook the rice according to your rice cooker or packaging instructions. After cooking, transfer the rice to a bowl and mix in 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar. This will give the rice a slight tartness and enhance its flavor. Allow it to cool to room temperature—this cooling step is essential for rolling.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
While your rice is cooling, it’s time to prepare the delectable filling for the Volcano Roll. In a mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup of imitation crab or cooked shrimp with 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise and 1 tablespoon of sriracha. Mix well until everything is evenly coated. This creamy and spicy mixture will give your Volcano Roll its signature flavor—make sure to taste it and adjust spiciness according to your preference.
Step 3: Slice the Vegetables
Next, you will need to slice your avocado and cucumber into thin strips. Take your time with this step, as the presentation of your sushi relies heavily on the quality of your vegetable cuts. Thin and uniform slices will allow for an even roll and an appealing look when you slice the finished product.
Step 4: Assemble the Roll
Lay a sheet of nori shiny-side down on your sushi mat. With damp hands, spread an even layer of cooled sushi rice over the nori, leaving about 1 inch at the top edge free of rice. This will help to seal the roll later. Flip the nori so that the rice-side is facing down. Now, arrange the slices of avocado and cucumber along the bottom edge of the nori, ensuring they are spaced evenly.
Step 5: Roll It Up
Using the sushi mat, carefully lift the edge of the mat closest to you and start rolling. Tuck the filling tightly as you roll, continuing to apply light pressure. Roll until you reach the exposed edge of the nori. Moisten that edge with a little water to seal the roll. Once rolled, slice the sushi into 6–8 bite-sized pieces using a sharp knife, cleaning the knife between cuts for clean edges.
Step 6: Top with Spicy Mixture
Now comes the fun part! Spoon your spicy seafood mixture over each piece of sushi. Make sure to cover them generously for that volcano effect. This topping not only adds flavor but also provides a beautiful contrast to the green avocado and cucumber.
Step 7: Broil (Optional)
For a delightful twist, if you would like to take your Volcano Roll to the next level, preheat your broiler. Drizzle a bit of unagi sauce over the topped sushi and sprinkle with black sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Broil the rolls for about 1–2 minutes until the topping is bubbly and slightly golden. Just be sure to keep an eye on them so they don’t burn.
Variations
- Protein: Substitute the imitation crab for real crab or grilled salmon for a richer flavor.
- Vegetables: Customize the filling by adding thinly sliced carrots, bell peppers, or even mango for a touch of sweetness.
- Spices: For an extra kick, mix in diced jalapeños or a touch of wasabi into your spicy topping.
Cooking Notes
- Make sure to use short-grain sushi rice for the best texture; it sticks together more effectively than long-grain rice.
- Don’t skip the rinsing step—it’s crucial for removing starch and achieving the perfect rice texture.
- If you’re using fresh seafood, ensure it’s prepped and cooked properly to avoid any food safety issues.
- Always slice using a sharp knife and clean it between cuts for neat sushi rolls.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with additional unagi sauce or soy sauce on the side for dipping.
- Garnish with pickled ginger and wasabi for a complete sushi experience.
Tips
- Keep a small bowl of water nearby while you roll the sushi; damp hands prevent rice from sticking to your fingers.
- If you prefer, adjust the amount of sriracha to suit your spice tolerance and personal preferences.
- Experiment with different toppings, such as eel, spicy tuna, or even a sprinkle of furikake for extra flavor.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 350 per roll
- Protein: 15g
- Sodium: 500mg
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of sushi rice?
While brown rice is a healthier option, it has a different texture and flavor, making it less suitable for traditional sushi rolls. If you prefer brown rice, look for a recipe specifically developed for it.
What is unagi sauce?
Unagi sauce, also known as eel sauce, is a sweet, thick sauce made from soy sauce, sugar, and mirin. It enhances the flavor of sushi rolls and adds a beautiful glaze.
How do I store leftover sushi?
It’s best to consume sushi fresh for optimal taste. However, if you need to store leftovers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in the fridge. Consume within 24 hours.
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Yes! The spicy seafood filling can be mixed a few hours before you plan to assemble your rolls. Just store it in the refrigerator to keep it fresh until you’re ready to roll.
Conclusion
The Volcano Roll is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors and a fun, interactive meal that can bring everyone together. The combination of warm, creamy seafood with fresh and crunchy vegetables is truly delightful. We hope this recipe inspires you to get creative in the kitchen, and we encourage you to try out various ingredients and toppings. Don’t forget to share your road to creating this unique sushi roll with friends and family. They’ll appreciate your efforts and may even ask for a sushi night of their own! Happy rolling!
Print
Volcano Roll Sushi
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 1 roll 1x
Description
A delightful sushi roll with explosive flavors and a unique presentation.
Ingredients
- 1 cup sushi rice
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 sheet nori
- 1 avocado
- 1 small cucumber
- 1/2 cup imitation crab or cooked shrimp
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sriracha
- 2 tablespoons unagi sauce
- 1 stalk green onion
- 1 teaspoon black sesame seeds
- 1 teaspoon oil or butter (optional)
Instructions
- Begin by thoroughly rinsing 1 cup of sushi rice under cold water to wash away excess starch. Once rinsed, cook the rice according to your rice cooker or packaging instructions. After cooking, mix in 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar.
- While your rice is cooling, combine 1/2 cup of imitation crab or cooked shrimp with 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise and 1 tablespoon of sriracha.
- Slice your avocado and cucumber into thin strips.
- Lay a sheet of nori shiny-side down on your sushi mat. Spread an even layer of cooled sushi rice over the nori, leaving about 1 inch at the top edge free of rice.
- Using the sushi mat, carefully lift the edge of the mat closest to you and start rolling. Roll until you reach the exposed edge of the nori.
- Spoon your spicy seafood mixture over each piece of sushi.
- For an optional broil, preheat your broiler and drizzle unagi sauce over the topped sushi, then broil for about 1–2 minutes.
Notes
Serve with additional unagi sauce or soy sauce on the side for dipping.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sodium: 500 mg
- Protein: 15 g