Cooked sushi rolls turn your kitchen into a fun, DIY sushi bar with zero stress and lots of flavor. Think crispy shrimp tempura tucked into seasoned rice with creamy avocado, crunchy cucumber, and a smoky, unagi inspired glaze that stays completely alcohol free. Every bite hits that perfect mix of crisp, creamy, and savory. Easy to customize, you can swap in crab sticks or marinated tofu and keep the sushi night excitement going. Roll them up, slice, share, and enjoy the homemade sushi magic.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This cooked sushi rolls
- Perfect for sushi lovers who prefer cooked ingredients.
- Easy to customize with your favorite fillings and sauces.
- Great for family gatherings or a fun date night at home.
- Quick to prepare, making it a weeknight dinner favorite.
- Deliciously satisfying without the need for raw fish.

cooked sushi rolls
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- Combine rice and water in a pot, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 10 minutes.
- In a small bowl, mix rice vinegar, sugar and salt until dissolved. Gently fold the seasoning into the cooked rice and let cool to room temperature.
- Place a bamboo sushi mat on a flat surface and cover with plastic wrap. Lay one sheet of nori, shiny side down, on the mat.
- Wet your fingers and spread a thin, even layer of sushi rice over the nori, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
- Brush a line of mayonnaise across the rice, then arrange 2 oz of cooked shrimp or crab, avocado slices and cucumber strips along the center.
- Using the mat, lift the edge of the nori and roll tightly over the filling, applying gentle pressure to form a firm cylinder. Seal the roll by moistening the top border with a little water.
- Using a sharp, damp knife, slice each roll into 6–8 pieces.
- Serve immediately with soy sauce, pickled ginger and wasabi on the side.
Notes
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 300 |
| Fat | 10g |
| Protein | 15g |
| Carbs | 40g |
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create delicious cooked sushi rolls at home!

- 2 cups sushi rice – for the base of the rolls
- 2 1/2 cups water – to cook the rice
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar – adds flavor to the rice
- 2 tablespoons sugar – for sweetness
- 1 teaspoon salt – to enhance flavor
- 4 sheets nori (seaweed) – for wrapping
- 8 oz cooked shrimp or cooked crab meat – the main protein
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced – for creaminess
- 1/2 cucumber, julienned – adds crunch
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise – for creaminess and flavor
- Soy sauce – for serving
- Pickled ginger and wasabi – for serving
How to Make Cooked Sushi Rolls
Making cooked sushi rolls is a fun and delicious way to enjoy sushi at home. With a preparation time of about 20 minutes, cooking time of 15 minutes, and an additional cooling time of 10 minutes, you’ll have these tasty rolls ready to serve in no time!

Step 1: Rinse the Rice
Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
Step 2: Cook the Rice
Combine rice and water in a pot, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 10 minutes.
Step 3: Season the Rice
In a small bowl, mix rice vinegar, sugar and salt until dissolved. Gently fold the seasoning into the cooked rice and let cool to room temperature.
Step 4: Prepare the Nori
Place a bamboo sushi mat on a flat surface and cover with plastic wrap. Lay one sheet of nori, shiny side down, on the mat.
Step 5: Spread the Rice
Wet your fingers and spread a thin, even layer of sushi rice over the nori, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
Step 6: Add the Fillings
Brush a line of mayonnaise across the rice, then arrange 2 oz of cooked shrimp or crab, avocado slices and cucumber strips along the center.
Step 7: Roll It Up
Using the mat, lift the edge of the nori and roll tightly over the filling, applying gentle pressure to form a firm cylinder. Seal the roll by moistening the top border with a little water.
Step 8: Slice the Rolls
Using a sharp, damp knife, slice each roll into 6–8 pieces.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve immediately with soy sauce, pickled ginger and wasabi on the side.
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Main Course |
| Cuisine | Japanese |
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time | 15 minutes |
| Extra Time | 10 minutes (cooling) |
| Total Time | 55 minutes |
| Dietary | Seafood |
| Serves | 4 |
| Best Served | With soy sauce, pickled ginger, and wasabi |
Pro Tips for Making Cooked Sushi Rolls
- Choose fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
- Keep your hands wet when handling rice to prevent sticking.
- Experiment with fillings like cooked shrimp or crab for variety.
- Use a bamboo mat for rolling to achieve a tight, even roll.
- Slice with a sharp knife for clean edges and a beautiful presentation.
How to Serve this cooked sushi rolls
- Serve with a side of soy sauce for dipping.
- Add pickled ginger for a refreshing contrast.
- Pair with wasabi for an extra kick.
- Enjoy with a side of edamame for a complete meal.
- Garnish with sesame seeds for added crunch.
- Serve alongside a light cucumber salad for freshness.
- Wrap in lettuce leaves for a fun, low-carb option.
- Offer a variety of sauces like teriyaki or spicy mayo for dipping.
Make Ahead and Storage
Here’s how to keep your cooked sushi rolls fresh and tasty:
Storing Leftovers
- Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap.
- Place wrapped rolls in an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Freezing
- Wrap each roll in plastic wrap, then foil.
- Place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Freeze for up to 1 month for best quality.
Reheating
- Remove plastic wrap and foil before reheating.
- Use a microwave on low power for 20-30 seconds.
- Alternatively, heat in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes.
- Enjoy warm for the best texture and taste!
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FAQs
Here’s a helpful FAQ about this recipe:
1. What sushi rolls are fully cooked?
Fully cooked sushi rolls typically include options like California rolls, shrimp tempura rolls, and eel rolls. These rolls use ingredients that have been cooked, ensuring they are safe to eat for those who prefer to avoid raw fish.
2. What is sushi that is cooked called?
Sushi that is cooked is often referred to as ‘cooked sushi’ or ‘cooked rolls.’ These rolls feature ingredients like cooked shrimp, crab, or vegetables, making them a great choice for those who are not comfortable with raw fish.
3. Which sushi rolls are not raw?
Sushi rolls that are not raw include those made with cooked seafood, such as crab (like in California rolls), shrimp tempura, and teriyaki chicken rolls. These options are delicious and safe for everyone to enjoy.
4. Can I have cooked sushi rolls?
Absolutely! Cooked sushi rolls are a fantastic option for anyone who prefers not to eat raw fish. They are just as flavorful and satisfying, making them a great choice for sushi lovers of all kinds.
Final Thoughts
Cooking up these delicious sushi rolls is not just easy, it’s a delightful adventure! Gather your loved ones, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the fun of creating something special together. Each bite is a reminder of the joy of homemade meals. So, dive in and savor the flavors—your taste buds will thank you!

