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Top 10 Best Sushi Recipes to Make at Home

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Top 10 Best Sushi Recipes to Make at Home

Top 10 Best Sushi Recipes You Can Make at Home 

Sushi is more than just food; it’s an art form, a celebration of flavors, textures, and cultures! From classic rolls to creative twists, sushi has captured the hearts (and appetites) of food lovers worldwide. Whether you’re a seasoned sushi enthusiast or someone looking to roll up your sleeves (pun intended!) and try making it at home, you’re in the right place. 

This guide features the 10 best sushi recipes you can easily recreate in your kitchen. From simple classics to vibrant specialty rolls, these step-by-step instructions will have you impressing friends, family—or simply yourself!

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What You’ll Need to Get Started

Before we dive into each recipe, here are a few essentials you’ll need to make homemade sushi:

  • Sushi rice (short-grain rice seasoned with rice vinegar, sugar, and salt) 
  • Nori sheets (seaweed) 
  • A bamboo sushi mat for rolling 
  • A sharp knife for clean cuts 
  • Fresh, high-quality ingredients 

Now, let’s roll!

1. Classic Tuna Roll (Tekkamaki)

The Classic Tuna Roll (Tekkamaki) is a sushi staple that's perfect for beginners. Its simplicity lets the fresh, buttery flavor of the tuna shine, while the delicate balance of rice, seaweed, and fish creates a satisfying bite every time. It's quick to make, light, and absolutely delicious.

Why We Love It
The Classic Tuna Roll (Tekkamaki) is a sushi staple that’s perfect for beginners. Its simplicity lets the fresh, buttery flavor of the tuna shine, while the delicate balance of rice, seaweed, and fish creates a satisfying bite every time. It’s quick to make, light, and absolutely delicious.

Ingredients

  • 1 sheet of nori (seaweed)
  • 1/2 cup sushi rice (cooked and seasoned with rice vinegar)
  • 2 oz fresh sushi-grade tuna, sliced into thin strips
  • Soy sauce and wasabi (for dipping, optional)
  • Bamboo sushi mat (for rolling)

Instructions

  1. Lay a bamboo sushi mat on a flat surface and place a sheet of nori on top, shiny side down.
  2. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice evenly over the nori, leaving about 1 inch of space at the top.
  3. Lay the tuna strips horizontally across the rice, about 1 inch from the bottom edge.
  4. Using the bamboo mat, roll the nori tightly over the tuna and rice, pressing gently to form a firm roll.
  5. Seal the roll by moistening the top edge of the nori with a bit of water.
  6. Slice the roll into bite-sized pieces using a sharp knife. Wipe the knife with a damp cloth between cuts for clean slices.
  7. Serve with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger on the side. Enjoy!

Tip: Dip your knife in water to avoid sticking while cutting!

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2. California Roll

A vibrant, close-up image of a neatly sliced California roll arranged on a sleek black plate. The sushi pieces showcase layers of creamy avocado, sweet crab, and crisp cucumber wrapped in shiny nori and fluffy white rice. Garnish the plate with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and small portions of soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger on the side. The background is light and minimal, with soft lighting highlighting the vibrant colors and textures of the roll.

This crowd-pleaser is a go-to for sushi lovers and beginners alike! We love it for its perfect balance of creamy avocado, sweet crab, and the fresh crunch of cucumber, all wrapped in seasoned rice and nori. It’s simple, satisfying, and always hits the spot.

Ingredients

  • 1 sheet of nori (seaweed)
  • 1 cup sushi rice, cooked and seasoned
  • 1/4 avocado, sliced
  • 2-3 sticks of imitation crab (or real crab meat)
  • 2-3 cucumber strips, thinly sliced
  • Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Lay a bamboo sushi mat on a flat surface and cover it with plastic wrap. Place the nori sheet, shiny side down, on the mat.
  2. Spread a thin, even layer of sushi rice over the nori, leaving about 1 inch uncovered at the top edge.
  3. Flip the nori sheet over so the rice faces down.
  4. Arrange slices of crab, avocado, and cucumber horizontally across the center of the nori.
  5. Using the bamboo mat, carefully roll the sushi tightly, pressing firmly as you go. Seal the edge with a little water.
  6. Slice the roll into even pieces with a sharp knife. Garnish with sesame seeds, if desired.
  7. Serve with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger on the side. Enjoy!

Variations: Swap in steamed shrimp or thin slices of mango for a tropical twist.

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3. Salmon Nigiri

A clean, minimalist flat-lay photograph showcasing freshly made salmon nigiri on a sleek white plate. The nigiri features vibrant, thinly sliced sushi-grade salmon resting on perfectly shaped oblong balls of glossy, vinegared sushi rice. Add small dipping bowls of soy sauce and a dollop of wasabi on the side for garnish. Include chopsticks resting neatly beside the plate, with a light, natural background to highlight the freshness and elegance of the dish.

Why We Love It

Nigiri is sushi at its finest—simple, elegant, and bursting with fresh flavor. We love it because it’s a perfect balance of tender fish and seasoned rice, highlighting the purity of the ingredients. It’s surprisingly easy to make at home with just a few steps!

Ingredients

  • Fresh sushi-grade salmon (thinly sliced into 2-inch pieces)
  • Sushi rice (prepared with rice vinegar, sugar, and salt)
  • Soy sauce (for dipping)
  • Wasabi (optional, for a light spread under the fish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare sushi rice and let it cool to room temperature.
  2. Slice fresh, sushi-grade salmon into thin, even pieces (about 2 inches long).
  3. Wet your hands with water and shape a small, oblong ball of rice (about 1 tablespoon).
  4. (Optional) Lightly spread a tiny amount of wasabi on the underside of the salmon slice.
  5. Place the salmon slice on top of the rice, gently pressing to secure it.
  6. Repeat with remaining rice and salmon.
  7. Serve with soy sauce for dipping, and enjoy immediately!

Serving Suggestion: Garnish with a slice of lemon or a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

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4. Shrimp Tempura Roll

A beautifully plated Shrimp Tempura Roll sliced into bite-sized pieces, showcasing golden crispy tempura shrimp, vibrant green avocado slices, and fresh cucumber wrapped in glossy sushi rice topped with sesame seeds. The rolls are arranged neatly on a sleek black plate, with small dipping bowls of soy sauce and creamy sriracha mayonnaise on the side. Chopsticks rest nearby, and the background features a bamboo sushi mat and fresh ingredients like avocado, cucumber, and nori for a fresh, culinary vibe.

Why We Love It
The Shrimp Tempura Roll is the perfect combination of crunch and creaminess! With golden, crispy shrimp tempura, fresh cucumber, and creamy avocado wrapped in sushi rice, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. Each bite delivers a burst of flavor with the perfect balance of texture.

Ingredients

  • Sushi rice
  • Nori sheet
  • Cooked shrimp tempura
  • Cucumber slices
  • Avocado slices
  • Sesame seeds
  • Soy sauce (optional for dipping)
  • Sriracha mayonnaise (optional)

Instructions

  1. Place a nori sheet on a bamboo sushi mat.
  2. Spread a thin, even layer of sushi rice over the nori, then flip it so the rice is on the bottom.
  3. Arrange shrimp tempura, cucumber slices, and avocado slices in the center of the nori.
  4. Roll it tightly using the bamboo mat, sealing the edges as you go.
  5. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top, then slice the roll into bite-sized pieces with a sharp knife.
  6. Serve with soy sauce and sriracha mayonnaise for dipping.

Pairing Tip: Don’t forget to dip it in tangy soy sauce with a touch of sriracha mayonnaise!

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5. Vegetarian Avocado Roll

A vibrant flat-lay image featuring a freshly made vegetarian avocado roll. The sushi pieces are neatly arranged on a bamboo sushi mat, showcasing creamy avocado slices at the center of each roll. Surround the sushi with small bowls of soy sauce, sesame seeds, and chopsticks resting on the side. Include key ingredients like a ripe avocado, a sheet of nori, and a bowl of sushi rice in the background for context. The setting is well-lit with a clean, minimal aesthetic, emphasizing freshness and simplicity.

Why we love it:
The avocado roll is a perfect blend of creamy, fresh, and light flavors. It’s quick to make, wholesome, and a go-to for vegetarians and sushi lovers alike. Plus, it’s the ideal introduction to sushi-making for beginners!

Ingredients:

  • 1 ripe avocado, sliced into thin strips
  • 1 cup sushi rice, cooked and seasoned with rice vinegar
  • 1 sheet of nori (seaweed)
  • Soy sauce (for dipping)
  • Optional: sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Lay a sheet of nori on a bamboo sushi mat, shiny side down.
  2. Spread a thin, even layer of sushi rice over the nori, leaving about 1 inch of space at the top edge.
  3. Arrange the avocado slices horizontally across the center of the rice.
  4. Roll the nori tightly using the bamboo mat, pressing firmly as you go to hold the roll together.
  5. Slice the roll into bite-sized pieces using a sharp knife (dip the knife in water to prevent sticking).
  6. Optional: Sprinkle with sesame seeds for added flavor and visual appeal. Serve with soy sauce.

Vegan Alternative: Swap traditional sushi rice for brown rice for added fiber and chewiness. 

6. Spicy Tuna Roll

A beautifully arranged plate of Spicy Tuna Rolls on a minimalist white plate. The sushi pieces are neatly sliced, revealing the vibrant red tuna mixture inside, paired with fresh green cucumber. Garnish the rolls with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and finely chopped green onion. Place a small dipping bowl of soy sauce beside the rolls, with chopsticks resting elegantly on the side. Use soft, natural lighting to highlight the glossy, fresh ingredients, with a clean and simple background to keep the focus on the sushi.

Why We Love It:
The Spicy Tuna Roll is a perfect balance of heat and flavor, combining the rich taste of fresh tuna with a spicy kick. It’s a sushi classic that’s simple to make yet always impressive, whether you’re serving guests or treating yourself.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup sushi rice, cooked and seasoned
  • 1 sheet of nori (seaweed)
  • 2 oz fresh tuna, diced
  • 1 tbsp mayonnaise
  • 1 tsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1 small cucumber, julienned
  • 1 green onion, finely chopped
  • Soy sauce (for serving)
  • Optional: sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, mix the diced tuna, mayonnaise, sriracha, sesame oil, and green onion until well combined. Set aside.
  2. Place a sheet of nori on a bamboo sushi mat (shiny side down). Spread a thin, even layer of sushi rice over the nori, leaving about an inch uncovered at the top edge.
  3. Add a strip of julienned cucumber near the bottom edge of the rice. Spoon the spicy tuna mixture on top of the cucumber.
  4. Using the bamboo mat, gently roll the nori tightly around the filling, pressing firmly as you go. Seal the roll by dampening the uncovered edge with water.
  5. Slice the roll into bite-sized pieces using a sharp knife. Clean the knife blade between cuts for a smoother finish.
  6. Garnish with sesame seeds if desired and serve with soy sauce for dipping.

Spice Level Tip: Adjust the amount of sriracha to your heat preference.

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7. Dragon Roll

A beautifully styled Dragon Roll sushi on a white plate. The roll is topped with thin avocado slices pressed smoothly, drizzled with glossy eel sauce, and garnished with sesame seeds. The pieces are neatly sliced, revealing the tempura shrimp, cucumber, and avocado inside. The plate is accompanied by a small dish of soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger. The background is light and minimal with soft lighting to emphasize the vibrant colors and textures of the sushi roll.

Why We Love it:
The dragon roll is a sushi lover’s dream—visually stunning and packed with layers of flavor. We love it for the perfect balance of creamy avocado, sweet eel sauce, and the crunch of tempura shrimp, all wrapped in sushi rice and nori. It’s the kind of roll that turns dinner into an event!

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup sushi rice
  • 1 sheet nori (seaweed)
  • 1 avocado, thinly sliced
  • 2 pieces of tempura shrimp
  • 1/4 cucumber, julienned
  • 2 tablespoons eel sauce
  • Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Cook sushi rice according to package instructions and season with rice vinegar.
  2. Lay a sheet of nori on a bamboo rolling mat and spread a thin, even layer of rice over it.
  3. Flip the nori over so the rice side is down.
  4. Place tempura shrimp, cucumber, and a few slices of avocado in the center of the nori.
  5. Carefully roll it using the bamboo mat, pressing gently to shape.
  6. Arrange thin avocado slices over the top of the roll and use plastic wrap to press them gently into place.
  7. Slice the roll into even pieces using a sharp knife, wiping the blade between cuts.
  8. Drizzle with eel sauce and sprinkle sesame seeds on top.

Pro Tip: Arrange the avocado slices like scales for that “dragon” effect.

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8. Philadelphia Roll

Top-down view of a beautifully plated Philadelphia Roll sushi, sliced into bite-sized pieces. The rolls showcase creamy cream cheese, fresh, thinly sliced salmon, and crisp cucumber at the center, wrapped in shiny nori and perfectly seasoned rice. The plate is garnished with a side of soy sauce in a small dish, pickled ginger, and a dollop of green wasabi. The background features a bamboo sushi mat and chopsticks for added context. Bright, natural lighting highlights the fresh and vibrant ingredients.

Why We Love It:
The Philadelphia Roll is a creamy, indulgent sushi favorite. The combination of velvety cream cheese, fresh salmon, and crisp cucumber creates the perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s simple, delicious, and always a crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup sushi rice, cooked and seasoned with rice vinegar
  • 1 sheet of nori (seaweed)
  • 2 oz fresh salmon, thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp cream cheese
  • 2-3 cucumber sticks, thinly sliced
  • Soy sauce, pickled ginger, and wasabi for serving

Instructions:

  1. Lay a bamboo sushi mat on a flat surface and place a sheet of plastic wrap on top.
  2. Place the nori sheet shiny side down on the mat.
  3. Evenly spread a thin layer of cooked sushi rice over the nori, leaving about 1 inch at the top edge uncovered.
  4. Add a row of salmon slices, cream cheese, and cucumber sticks horizontally across the middle of the rice.
  5. Carefully roll the sushi mat from the bottom edge, pressing gently to form a tight roll. Seal the edge by moistening the uncovered nori with a bit of water.
  6. Slice the roll into bite-sized pieces with a sharp knife.
  7. Serve with soy sauce, pickled ginger, and wasabi on the side.

Fun Twist: Try swapping smoked salmon for seared tuna or even turkey for fun variations.

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9. Rainbow Roll

Create a vibrant and appetizing image of a Rainbow Roll sushi platter. The sushi rolls should showcase a colorful array of toppings, including thinly sliced tuna, salmon, shrimp, and avocado arranged in a visually appealing pattern. The sliced rolls should be neatly placed on a sleek black serving plate, accompanied by small dishes of soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger. Ensure the background is light and minimal, with soft lighting that highlights the fresh, vibrant ingredients and the intricate details of the sushi.

Why We Love It:
The Rainbow Roll is not only visually stunning but also packed with fresh, vibrant flavors. It’s a sushi classic that combines the best of seafood, veggies, and rice into one delicious bite. Perfect for parties or a fun dinner at home, it’s always a crowd-pleaser that brings some color to the table!

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups sushi rice (prepared and seasoned)
  • Nori sheets (seaweed)
  • 1 avocado, thinly sliced
  • 1 cucumber, julienned
  • 4 oz sashimi-grade tuna, thinly sliced
  • 4 oz sashimi-grade salmon, thinly sliced
  • 4 oz sashimi-grade shrimp (cooked), thinly sliced
  • 4 oz imitation crab or real crab meat
  • Soy sauce (for serving)
  • Wasabi and pickled ginger (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Lay a sheet of nori on a bamboo sushi mat, shiny side down.
  2. Spread a thin, even layer of sushi rice on top of the nori, covering it completely.
  3. Flip the nori over so the rice side faces down.
  4. Arrange cucumber, crab, and a few slices of avocado in a straight line across the center of the nori.
  5. Roll the sushi tightly, using the bamboo mat to help shape it.
  6. Once rolled, lay slices of tuna, salmon, shrimp, and avocado on top of the roll in a colorful pattern.
  7. Cover the roll with plastic wrap and gently press the toppings into place using the bamboo mat.
  8. Remove plastic wrap and slice the roll into bite-sized pieces using a sharp knife. Wipe the knife with a damp cloth between cuts for cleaner slices.
  9. Serve with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger on the side.

Plating Tip: Arrange the rolls to display the colorful “rainbow” effect.

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10. Simple Cucumber Roll (Kappamaki)

A top-down view of a neatly arranged plate of freshly made cucumber sushi rolls (kappamaki) on a wooden board or clean white plate. The rolls are sliced into bite-sized pieces, showing vibrant green cucumber wrapped in white sushi rice and dark nori. A small dish of soy sauce, a dollop of wasabi, and a few slices of pickled ginger are placed beside the rolls for serving. The background includes a bamboo sushi mat and scattered sushi-making ingredients like a cucumber, nori sheets, and a bowl of sushi rice, creating a clean and inviting kitchen scene.

Why We Love It:
Kappamaki is the perfect combination of simplicity and flavor. It’s light, healthy, and a great introduction to making sushi at home. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a solo snack, these cucumber rolls are quick, satisfying, and fun to prepare!

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup sushi rice, cooked and seasoned with rice vinegar, sugar, and salt
  • 1 cucumber, cut into thin strips
  • 2-3 sheets of nori (seaweed)
  • Soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger (for serving)

Instructions:

  1. Place a sheet of nori, shiny side down, on a bamboo sushi mat.
  2. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice evenly over the nori, leaving about 1 inch at the top edge uncovered.
  3. Lay cucumber strips horizontally across the center of the rice.
  4. Using the bamboo mat, carefully roll the nori and rice around the cucumber, pressing gently to form a tight roll.
  5. Use a sharp knife to slice the roll into bite-sized pieces.
  6. Serve with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger on the side. Enjoy fresh!

Simple Variation: Add pickled radish for added crunch and zing.

Read More: 10 Best Shrimp Recipes for Dinner – Quick, Easy & Delicious!

Sushi Your Way 

There you have it—10 incredible sushi recipes to try at home! Whether you’re into the classics or love experimenting with creative twists, there’s something here for every sushi lover. 

The beauty of sushi lies in its versatility and ability to adapt to your tastes. Don’t be afraid to mix, match, and innovate as you go. Did you create a new favorite using these recipes? We’d love to see it! 

Share your sushi creations with us in the comments or tag us on social media. Happy rolling! 

 

 

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