| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 25 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 160 | 5g | 1g | 25g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 8g | 3g | 3g | 1g |
There’s something extraordinarily satisfying about the balance of flavors and textures in a Spicy Mozuku Sushi Roll. This recipe combines the rich traditions of Japanese cuisine with a hint of modern flair, creating a dish that is both unique and deeply comforting. As someone who grew up embracing the fresh and vibrant ingredients of the Pacific Northwest, this sushi roll embodies the best of what both my cultural heritage and my environment have to offer.
Harmony of Flavors
The Spicy Mozuku Sushi Roll brings an immersive taste experience. The mozuku seaweed lends a subtle brininess and delicate texture that perfectly complements the creamy avocado and the sweet, tangy slices of ripe mango. Each bite is a delightful dance of freshness and spice, especially with the kick from thinly sliced fresh jalapeño and the sriracha sauce. Drizzling soy sauce on your piece or pairing it with pickled ginger and a hint of wasabi paste can further elevate your palate.
Health Benefits
What I love about this recipe is that it’s not only delicious but also nutritious. Mozuku seaweed is packed with fucoidan, a dietary fiber known for its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. Avocado is rich in healthy fats and nutrients, while cucumber provides a hydrating crunch. Even the nori sheets, often overlooked, are a good source of vitamins A, B, and C, as well as iodine. Each ingredient brings its own set of health benefits, making this sushi roll as good for you as it tastes.
Pairing Suggestions and Similar Dishes
This Spicy Mozuku Sushi Roll pairs wonderfully with miso soup or a light seaweed salad, echoing the marine flavors throughout your meal. If you enjoy this recipe, you might also like similar dishes such as kappa maki (cucumber roll) or a mango and avocado poke bowl. Both dishes highlight simple yet complementary ingredients that provide substantial health benefits without compromising on flavor.
Ultimately, the Spicy Mozuku Sushi Roll is a reflection of my culinary journey, blending the familiar with the new, the traditional with the modern. It’s a beautiful way to bring a taste of Japan into your home, whether you’re enjoying it as a quick lunch or a centerpiece for dinner with friends. I hope you love it as much as I do.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups sushi rice
- 2 1/2 cups water
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 6 sheets nori (seaweed)
- 1 cup mozuku seaweed, rinsed and drained
- 1 ripe mango, peeled, pitted, and sliced into thin strips
- 1 avocado, peeled, pitted, and sliced into thin strips
- 1 small cucumber, julienned
- 1 fresh jalapeño, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (for dipping)
- Pickled ginger (for serving)
- Wasabi paste (optional, for serving)
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Method
Step One
Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18 minutes. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 10 minutes.
Step Two
In a small bowl, mix the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until dissolved. Transfer the cooked rice to a large bowl and gently fold in the vinegar mixture with a spatula. Allow the rice to cool to room temperature.
Step Three
Lay a sheet of nori, shiny side down, on a bamboo sushi mat. With wet fingers, evenly spread a thin layer of sushi rice over the nori, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
Step Four
Place a small amount of mozuku seaweed along the center of the rice. Add a few strips of mango, avocado, cucumber, and jalapeño slices over the mozuku.
Step Five
Drizzle a small amount of sriracha sauce over the filling. Using the bamboo mat, carefully roll the sushi tightly from the bottom up, pressing gently to keep the roll intact. Lightly moisten the top border of the nori to seal the roll.
Step Six
Repeat the process with the remaining nori sheets and ingredients.
Step Seven
Using a sharp knife, slice each roll into 6 to 8 pieces. Clean the knife with a damp cloth between cuts to ensure clean slices.
Step Eight
Garnish the sushi rolls with sesame seeds if desired. Serve with soy sauce for dipping, along with pickled ginger and wasabi paste on the side. Enjoy your Spicy Mozuku Sushi Roll!
