The art of sushi-making has long been a cornerstone of Japanese cuisine, and its popularity shows no signs of waning. From classic nigiri to innovative rolls, the possibilities are endless when it comes to this beloved dish. In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 exquisite Japan sushi recipes that are sure to delight even the most discerning palates.
From the simplicity of a well-crafted tuna nigiri to the complexity of a spider roll with soft-shell crab, these recipes offer a glimpse into the incredible variety and creativity that Japanese cuisine has to offer. Whether you’re a seasoned sushi enthusiast or just looking for some new ideas to try at home, this collection of authentic Japan sushi recipes is sure to inspire your inner chef.
Classic Nigiri Sushi with Fresh Tuna
Experience the simplicity and elegance of traditional Japanese cuisine with this recipe for classic nigiri sushi featuring fresh tuna.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup short-grain Japanese rice (such as Koshihikari or Akita Komachi)
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup sake (Japanese rice wine) or white wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 avocado, sliced
– 6 ounces fresh tuna sashimi-grade, cut into small pieces
– 1 sheet nori seaweed
– Salt
Instructions:
1. Rinse the Japanese rice thoroughly and cook according to package instructions.
2. Mix the cooked rice with water, sake or white wine vinegar, and sugar in a large bowl.
3. Shape the sushi mixture into small rectangular shapes.
4. Place a small piece of tuna on top of each sushi shape.
5. Wrap the nori seaweed sheet around the tuna and sushi, forming a triangle.
6. Serve immediately with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Spicy Salmon Roll with Sriracha Mayo
This spicy salmon roll combines the rich flavor of smoked salmon with the creaminess of sriracha mayo and the crunch of toasted sesame seeds. It’s a perfect treat for sushi lovers looking to add some heat to their meal.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup cooked and cooled sushi-grade salmon
– 1/4 cup Japanese short-grain rice (cooked according to package instructions)
– 1 sheet nori seaweed
– 2 tablespoons sriracha mayo (see below for recipe)
– 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice and let it cool.
2. Cut the cooked salmon into thin strips.
3. Lay a sheet of nori seaweed flat on a cutting board. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
4. Place a few pieces of salmon in the middle of the rice.
5. Roll the sushi using a bamboo sushi mat or a clean tea towel.
6. Slice the roll into 8 equal pieces.
7. Serve with sriracha mayo and toasted sesame seeds.
Sriracha Mayo Recipe:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
Mix ingredients together until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rainbow Sushi Roll with Assorted Fish
Create a vibrant and delicious sushi roll featuring an assortment of fish, wrapped in a colorful rainbow of ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked sushi rice
– 1/2 avocado, sliced
– 1/4 cup carrot strips
– 1/4 cup cucumber slices
– 1/4 cup pickled ginger, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup assorted fish (salmon, tuna, yellowtail), sashimi-grade and cut into thin strips
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed
– Soy sauce and wasabi for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. Lay a sheet of nori seaweed flat on a cutting board.
3. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
4. Arrange the fish strips horizontally in the center of the rice, followed by the avocado, carrot, cucumber, and pickled ginger.
5. Roll the sushi using a bamboo sushi mat or a clean tea towel, applying gentle pressure to form a compact roll.
6. Slice into individual pieces and serve with soy sauce and wasabi (if desired).
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Vegetarian Avocado Cucumber Sushi
Enjoy a light and revitalizing twist on traditional sushi with this vegetarian recipe that combines creamy avocado, crunchy cucumber, and savory rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe avocado, sliced
– 2 cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 cup cooked Japanese short-grain rice (preferably Koshihikari or Akita Komachi)
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– Salt to taste
– Nori sheets (dried seaweed sheets) for wrapping
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions using 1 cup of water and 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar.
2. In a separate bowl, combine sliced avocado and cucumber.
3. Lay a nori sheet flat on a surface. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto the nori, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
4. Place 1-2 pieces of the avocado-cucumber mixture in the middle of the rice.
5. Roll the nori using gentle pressure to form a compact roll.
6. Slice into individual pieces and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes (including sushi rice preparation)
Dragon Roll with Eel and Avocado
Experience the harmonious balance of sweet and savory flavors in this Japanese-inspired Dragon Roll with Eel and Avocado. A delicate combination of eel, avocado, cucumber, and spicy mayo wrapped in a crispy tempura shrimp shell.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound sushi-grade eel
– 1 ripe avocado, sliced
– 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup tempura shrimp shells
– 1/4 cup spicy mayo (or to taste)
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed
Instructions:
1. Preheat a pan with oil for frying the tempura shrimp shells.
2. Cook the eel according to package instructions or grill until slightly charred.
3. Prepare the avocado and cucumber slices.
4. Assemble the roll by placing a piece of nori seaweed flat, followed by a slice of eel, some avocado, cucumber, and finally a tempura shrimp shell.
5. Drizzle with spicy mayo and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Tempura Shrimp Sushi Roll
Elevate your sushi game with this crispy and flavorful tempura shrimp roll recipe! This unique fusion of Japanese and Western flavors combines the sweetness of tempura shrimp with the freshness of sushi rice and nori seaweed.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of sushi rice
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup tempura shrimp, cooked and cooled
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. Cut the tempura shrimp into bite-sized pieces.
3. Lay a sheet of nori seaweed flat on a cutting board.
4. Place a small amount of sushi rice onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
5. Arrange the tempura shrimp pieces in the middle of the rice.
6. Roll the sushi using a bamboo mat or your hands, applying gentle pressure.
7. Slice into desired portions and serve with soy sauce and sesame oil.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (includes preparation time)
California Roll with Imitation Crab
Experience the classic Japanese-American fusion dish with a twist by using imitation crab instead of traditional crab meat. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for sushi lovers and beginners alike.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup imitation crab meat (flaked)
– 1/4 cup cucumber slices
– 1/4 cup avocado slices
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt to taste
– Nori sheets (dried seaweed)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. Mix the imitation crab meat with soy sauce and sesame oil.
3. Lay a nori sheet flat on a surface. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto the nori, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
4. Place a few pieces of cucumber, avocado, and imitation crab mixture in the middle of the rice.
5. Roll the sushi using a bamboo mat or a clean tea towel. Apply gentle pressure to form a compact roll.
6. Slice into 8 equal pieces. Serve immediately with soy sauce and wasabi (optional).
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Unagi Sushi with Grilled Eel
Savor the rich flavor of grilled eel wrapped in a delicate sushi roll, infused with sweet and savory notes. This classic Unagi Sushi recipe is a must-try for any sushi enthusiast.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb unagi (Japanese eel)
– 1 cup sushi rice
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup salt
– 1 sheet nori seaweed
– 1 avocado, sliced
– 1 cucumber, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill eel for 5-7 minutes per side or until cooked through.
2. Cook sushi rice according to package instructions. Mix with vinegar, sugar, and salt.
3. Cut nori sheet into desired size for roll.
4. Assemble the roll by spreading a thin layer of rice onto nori, then adding eel, avocado, and cucumber.
5. Roll tightly and slice into individual pieces.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including grilling time)
Tamago Sushi with Sweet Egg Omelette
This classic Japanese recipe combines the simplicity of a sweet egg omelette with the elegance of sushi, creating a delicious and easy-to-make dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 eggs
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 cup cooked Japanese rice (preferably short-grain)
– Nori sheets (dried seaweed)
– Sushi vinegar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, and salt until well combined.
2. Add water to the mixture and whisk until smooth.
3. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Pour in egg mixture and cook until edges start to set (about 30 seconds).
4. Use a spatula to gently lift and fold the edges towards the center, allowing uncooked egg to flow to the edges.
5. Once the omelette is almost cooked through, use the spatula to shape it into a long, thin rectangle.
6. Cut nori sheets into desired size for wrapping sushi. Place a portion of Japanese rice onto the nori, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
7. Place the sweet egg omelette on top of the rice and roll into a compact cylinder using nori sheet as wrapping.
Cooking Time: Approximately 5-6 minutes
Spider Roll with Soft-Shell Crab
Experience the flavor of the sea with this indulgent Spider Roll recipe featuring succulent soft-shell crab.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of sushi rice
– 1/2 cup of water
– 1/4 cup of soy sauce
– 1/4 cup of sake (or dry white wine)
– 1 tablespoon of sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 teaspoon of sesame oil
– 1 soft-shell crab, patted dry and cut into small pieces
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Cook sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. In a separate pan, combine soy sauce, sake (or white wine), sugar, salt, and sesame oil. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Cut the soft-shell crab into small pieces and fry in vegetable oil until crispy.
4. Lay a sheet of nori seaweed flat on a surface. Spread a thin layer of cooked sushi rice onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
5. Place the fried crab pieces along the center of the rice, then roll the sushi using a bamboo mat or a clean tea towel.
6. Slice into 8 equal pieces and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Philadelphia Roll with Cream Cheese and Salmon
This classic Japanese-inspired dish gets a delicious twist with the addition of smoked salmon and cream cheese. The combination of flavors and textures will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of Philadelphia roll sushi rice
– 1/2 cup of cream cheese, softened
– 6 pieces of smoked salmon
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. Cut the smoked salmon into thin strips.
3. Spread a layer of cream cheese on top of the sushi rice, leaving a small border at the top.
4. Place 2-3 pieces of smoked salmon on top of the cream cheese.
5. Roll the sushi using nori seaweed, applying gentle pressure to form a compact roll.
6. Slice into 8 equal pieces and serve.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Chirashi Sushi Bowl with Mixed Toppings
Experience the convenience of a sushi bowl without the hassle of rolling individual pieces. This recipe combines short-grain Japanese rice, savory toppings, and fresh flavors for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Japanese rice
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup mixed toppings (e.g., diced salmon, pickled ginger, sliced avocado, shredded daikon)
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– Salt to taste
– Optional: chopped scallions and grated carrot for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook Japanese rice according to package instructions. Mix with water, soy sauce, and rice vinegar.
2. Divide the cooked rice into individual bowls.
3. Arrange mixed toppings over the rice.
4. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top.
5. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (preparation), 30 minutes (total)
Inari Sushi with Sweet Tofu Pockets
Experience the harmonious blend of soft sushi pouches filled with creamy sweet tofu and subtle soy sauce flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of Inari pockets (sweetened bean-filled tofu pouches)
– 1 block of firm tofu, drained and crumbled
– 2 tablespoons of maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Drain the Inari pouches and set them aside.
2. In a bowl, mix together the crumbled tofu, maple syrup, soy sauce, and sesame oil until smooth.
3. Spoon about 1-2 tablespoons of the sweet tofu mixture into each Inari pocket.
4. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes ( preparation time only)
Tuna Tataki Sushi with Seared Tuna
Experience the perfect balance of flavors and textures with this recipe for Tuna Tataki Sushi, featuring seared tuna and a tangy tataki sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound sushi-grade tuna steak
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (Japanese rice wine)
– 2 tablespoons mirin (sweet Japanese cooking wine)
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 4-6 pieces of sushi rice
– 4-6 sheets of nori seaweed
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet over high heat. Season the tuna steak with soy sauce and cook for 30 seconds on each side.
2. In a small saucepan, combine sake, mirin, sugar, and vegetable oil. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Prepare sushi rice according to package instructions.
4. Assemble the sushi by spreading a thin layer of sushi rice onto a nori sheet, followed by a slice of seared tuna.
5. Drizzle tataki sauce over the tuna and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Scallop Sushi with Yuzu Dressing
This refreshing sushi recipe combines succulent scallops with the tangy and citrusy flavors of yuzu dressing, perfect for a light and elegant meal.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 sea scallops
– 1 cup short-grain Japanese rice (preferably Koshihikari)
– 1/2 avocado, sliced
– 1/4 cucumber, sliced
– Yuzu dressing ingredients:
+ 2 yuzu fruits, juiced
+ 1/2 cup soy sauce
+ 1/4 cup sake
+ 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
+ 1 tablespoon sugar
+ 1 teaspoon grated ginger
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. Cut the scallops into bite-sized pieces and season with salt.
3. Assemble the sushi by placing a small amount of sushi rice on a nori sheet, followed by a piece of scallop, avocado, and cucumber.
4. Roll the sushi tightly but gently.
5. Prepare the yuzu dressing by whisking all ingredients together until smooth.
6. Serve the sushi with the yuzu dressing drizzled over the top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Salmon Skin Roll with Crispy Skin
Elevate your salmon game with this simple yet impressive recipe that showcases the crispy skin as the star of the show. This dish is perfect for special occasions or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets, skin side up
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and grated ginger.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto the salmon skin side up.
4. Place the salmon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each fillet.
5. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Octopus Sushi with Wasabi Drizzle
Experience the unique fusion of Japanese flavors with this Octopus Sushi recipe, elevated by a spicy wasabi drizzle. This simple and impressive dish is perfect for sushi enthusiasts and adventurous eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound cooked octopus (tenderized and cut into small pieces)
– 1 cup short-grain Japanese rice
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon wasabi paste
– Optional: sesame seeds, thinly sliced daikon radish
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. Cut a piece of nori in half and place it on a flat surface.
3. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto the nori, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
4. Place 2-3 pieces of octopus in the center of the rice.
5. Drizzle soy sauce over the octopus.
6. Roll the sushi using a bamboo mat or your hands, applying gentle pressure.
7. Slice into 8 equal pieces.
8. Mix wasabi paste with a small amount of water to create a drizzly consistency.
9. Serve the sushi with a drizzle of wasabi and garnish with sesame seeds and daikon radish (optional).
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Seaweed Salad Sushi Roll
This refreshing seaweed salad sushi roll combines the crunch of crispy wakame seaweed with the creaminess of Japanese-style mayonnaise, all wrapped up in a delicate rice and nori seaweed package.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Japanese short-grain rice
– 1/2 cup wakame seaweed sheets, crumbled
– 1/4 cup Japanese-style mayonnaise (or vegan alternative)
– 1/4 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup sliced carrots
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 sheet nori seaweed
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. In a small bowl, mix together crumbled wakame seaweed, Japanese-style mayonnaise, diced cucumber, and sliced carrots.
3. Lay a sheet of nori seaweed flat on a cutting board.
4. Spread a thin layer of cooked sushi rice onto the nori, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
5. Place the seaweed salad mixture in the center of the rice.
6. Roll the sushi using a bamboo mat or your hands, applying gentle pressure.
7. Slice into individual pieces and serve.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to roll with these 18 exquisite Japan sushi recipes! From classic nigiri sushi with fresh tuna to spicy salmon rolls with sriracha mayo, and from vegetarian avocado cucumber sushi to tempura shrimp sushi rolls, this collection has something for every sushi lover. Discover authentic Japanese flavors and techniques to make your own delicious sushi at home.
