There’s something magical about the first time you roll sushi. I still remember that day in a small coastal town where the ocean breeze mingled with the fragrance of fresh seafood. Inspired by the vibrant colors of the ocean and the harmonious flavors of the ingredients, I decided to create a sushi roll that embodies that very essence. These Ocean’s Harmony Sushi Rolls are not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful journey for the palate.
Ingredients
1 cup sushi rice
1 ¼ cups water
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar
½ teaspoon salt
4 sheets nori (seaweed)
½ cucumber, julienned
½ avocado, sliced
4 oz. fresh sashimi-grade tuna, cut into thin strips
4 oz. fresh salmon, cut into thin strips
1 small carrot, julienned
¼ cup pickled ginger (for serving)
2 tablespoons soy sauce (for serving)
1 tablespoon wasabi (optional, for serving)
Instructions
Start by rinsing the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and helps achieve that perfect sticky texture. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice and water, bringing it to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 18 minutes until the rice is tender and water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit for an additional 10 minutes while covered.
In a small bowl, mix rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until dissolved. Gently fold this mixture into the cooked rice, ensuring each grain is coated without smashing it. Allow the rice to cool to room temperature.
Lay a bamboo sushi mat on a clean surface and place a sheet of nori, shiny side down, on top. With wet hands (to prevent sticking), spread about ½ cup of sushi rice evenly over the nori, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
In the center of the rice, lay strips of tuna, salmon, cucumber, avocado, and carrot, arranging them artfully. The colors should remind you of a vibrant coral reef, inviting and tantalizing.
With the help of the bamboo mat, carefully lift the bottom edge of the mat and start rolling it away from you, tucking the filling in as you go. Apply gentle pressure to form a tight roll, ensuring that the nori adheres to the rice. Continue rolling until you reach the bare edge of the nori. Use a little water to seal the edge.
Using a sharp knife, slice the roll into bite-sized pieces, wiping the knife with a damp cloth between cuts to ensure clean edges. Arrange the sushi rolls on a platter, garnishing with pickled ginger, soy sauce, and wasabi on the side.
As you take a bite of these Ocean’s Harmony Sushi Rolls, let the flavors transport you back to that sunlit beach, where every bite is an ocean wave of freshness and joy. Enjoy this culinary adventure and share it with friends, making memories that will linger just like the taste of the sea.