Creating sushi at home is easier than you think! This recipe will guide you step by step to craft delicious sushi rolls, combining fresh ingredients like salmon, avocado, and perfectly seasoned rice. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced home chef, this sushi recipe is sure to impress your family and friends.

Ingredients:

For the Sushi Rice:

• 2 cups sushi rice
• 2 1/2 cups water
• 1/3 cup rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Fillings:

• Fresh salmon slices (sushi-grade)
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1 cucumber, julienned
• 1 sheet of nori (seaweed)
• Optional: Cream cheese or spicy mayo

For Assembly:

• Bamboo sushi mat
• Plastic wrap
• Sharp knife

Steps to Make Sushi:

1. Cook the Rice: Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Combine rice and water in a pot and cook over medium heat until boiling. Cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 20 minutes. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 10 minutes.
2. Season the Rice: In a small saucepan, combine rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Heat until dissolved. Pour the mixture over the cooked rice and gently fold to combine. Allow the rice to cool to room temperature.
3. Prepare the Ingredients: Slice the salmon into thin strips. Julienne the cucumber and slice the avocado thinly. Set all your ingredients within easy reach.
4. Set Up the Sushi Mat: Cover the bamboo sushi mat with plastic wrap. Place a sheet of nori, shiny side down, on the mat.
5. Assemble the Sushi: Spread a thin layer of seasoned rice over the nori, leaving a 1-inch border at the top. Lay the salmon, avocado, and cucumber horizontally across the middle. Add a dollop of cream cheese or spicy mayo for extra flavor if desired.
6. Roll the Sushi: Lift the edge of the bamboo mat closest to you and roll it tightly over the fillings. Use gentle pressure to create a firm roll. Seal the edge of the nori with a bit of water.
7. Cut the Rolls: Use a sharp knife to slice the roll into 6-8 even pieces. Wipe the knife with a damp cloth between cuts to keep it clean.
8. Garnish and Serve: Arrange the sushi pieces on a plate. Garnish with black sesame seeds, chopped chives, or a drizzle of spicy mayo. Serve with soy sauce, pickled ginger, and wasabi.

Tips for Perfect Sushi:

• Use sushi-grade salmon to ensure freshness and safety.
• Keep your hands wet when handling the rice to prevent sticking.
• Practice rolling with an empty nori sheet before adding the fillings.

With this simple recipe, you can enjoy fresh, homemade sushi anytime. Experiment with different fillings and toppings to create your signature rolls. Sushi-making is a fun and rewarding culinary experience that brings a taste of Japan to your kitchen!