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Home » Rice Cooking Tips

Types of Sushi Rolls

Jun 11, 2024 · Modified: Sep 17, 2025 by Emily · 1 Comment

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Dive into the delicious world of sushi with our guide on the various types of sushi rolls.

From the classic maki to the innovative uramaki, sushi rolls offer a delightful blend of flavors and textures that cater to every palate.

Whether you prefer the simplicity of hosomaki or the hearty futomaki, there's a roll for everyone.

Join us as we explore these delectable creations and discover your new favorite type of sushi roll!

Two sushi rolls on a rectangular plate.
Jump to:
  • What is sushi?
  • What are the six main types of sushi?
  • What is the tastiest type of sushi?
  • What is the most popular sushi roll?
  • Modern Takes on Sushi
  • 9 Delicious and Easy To Make Sushi Recipes
  • More Mains Recipes
  • Recipe
  • Comments

Ever wondered about the types of sushi rolls? From skinny sushi to sushi filled with many delicious fillings, there are many different types of sushi out there.

Read on to learn more about sushi, and the different types of sushi rolls today!

What is sushi?

Sushi is a traditional Japanese dish that primarily consists of vinegared rice combined with various ingredients such as raw or cooked seafood, vegetables, and occasionally tropical fruits.

The rice used in sushi is seasoned with a mixture of vinegar, sugar, and salt, giving it a distinctive flavor. Sushi is often served with accompaniments like soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger.

There are several types of sushi, including maki (rolls), nigiri (slices of fish atop rice), and sashimi (slices of raw fish without rice).

Sushi is celebrated for its fresh ingredients and the balance of flavors and textures.

Sushi on a slate board.

What are the six main types of sushi?

  • Maki: This classic roll features a layer of rice and fillings wrapped in seaweed (nori). It's typically cut into six to eight bite-sized pieces. Fillings range from fresh fish to vegetables.
  • Futomaki: Known as "fat rolls," these are larger versions of maki with multiple ingredients inside, often including fish, vegetables, and sometimes tamago (Japanese omelet).
  • Hosomaki: These are thin rolls with a single filling, such as tuna (tekka maki) or cucumber (kappa maki). They offer a simple yet flavorful experience.
  • Uramaki: Also called inside-out rolls, these have rice on the outside and nori on the inside. Popular examples include the California roll and the Philadelphia roll, often topped with sesame seeds or tobiko (fish roe).
  • Temaki: Hand rolls are cone-shaped and filled with rice, fish, and vegetables. They are made to be eaten with hands, making them perfect for a casual meal.
  • Nigiri: Though not technically a roll, nigiri is worth mentioning. It consists of a slice of fish or other topping on a small bed of rice, often held together by a dab of wasabi.
  • Sashimi: While not really a sushi roll, sashimi is another sushi staple-sliced raw fish served without rice, allowing the pure flavor of the fish to shine.

What is the tastiest type of sushi?

The tastiest type of sushi is subjective and depends on individual preferences, but many people love the tuna (otoro) nigiri.

Otoro comes from the belly of the tuna and is known for its rich, buttery texture and melt-in-your-mouth flavor.

This delicacy is often considered a highlight in sushi dining due to its high-fat content and luxurious taste.

Other popular favorites include the eel (unagi) roll with its sweet, savory glaze, and the spicy tuna roll, which combines the heat of spicy mayo with the flavors of tuna.

Ultimately, the tastiest sushi varies from person to person.

What is the most popular sushi roll?

One of the most popular sushi roll is arguably the California roll. This roll is a type of uramaki, or inside-out roll, where the rice is on the outside and the seaweed wraps around the fillings.

The California roll typically includes imitation crab (or real crab), avocado, and cucumber, making it a favorite among those new to sushi and seasoned sushi enthusiasts alike.

Its mild flavor and appealing texture make it an accessible choice for many.

Another widely popular roll is the spicy tuna roll, known for its kick of spice and fresh taste. These rolls have become staples in sushi restaurants worldwide.

Close up image of sushi on a plate.
California Sushi Roll Recipe

Modern Takes on Sushi

Modern takes on sushi bring creative twists to traditional favorites.

Sushi bakes, for instance, are a delightful casserole-style dish combining layers of seasoned rice, seafood, and toppings baked to perfection.

Sushi burritos wrap sushi ingredients in a large seaweed sheet, perfect for a meal on-the-go.

Poke bowls deconstruct sushi into a bowl format with fresh fish, rice, and veggies.

Another innovation is sushi donuts, where seasoned rice forms a donut shape, topped with colorful fish and vegetables.

9 Delicious and Easy To Make Sushi Recipes

1. California Sushi Roll Recipe

California sushi rolls on a wooden board.

Try this California sushi roll recipe for a delicious and easy-to-make sushi experience.

This roll features a perfect blend of creamy avocado, crisp cucumber, and tasty crab (or imitation crab), all wrapped in seasoned sushi rice and nori.

It's a fantastic choice for beginners and a favorite among sushi lovers.

With just a few simple steps, you'll be rolling your own California sushi rolls at home in no time.

California Sushi Roll Recipe

2. Spicy Tuna Sushi Recipe

Tuna sushi pieces on a white plate.

The spicy tuna sushi recipe is perfect for those who love a bit of heat.

This roll combines fresh tuna with spicy mayo for a flavorful kick, wrapped in seasoned sushi rice and nori. It's a delicious way to enjoy sushi with an extra zing.

Whether you're new to sushi-making or a seasoned pro, this recipe is simple and satisfying.

Roll up some spicy tuna sushi and delight your taste buds with every bite!

Spicy Tuna Sushi Recipe

3. Hosomaki

Ginger being placed on a piece of sushi.

Hosomaki is a simple and elegant type of sushi roll that's perfect for any sushi lover.

These thin rolls feature a single filling, such as fresh cucumber, tuna, or avocado, wrapped in seasoned sushi rice and nori.

The minimalist approach highlights the pure, fresh flavors of the ingredients.

Hosomaki is easy to make and a great starting point for those new to sushi.

Try making hosomaki at home and enjoy the clean, delicious taste of this classic roll!

Hosomaki

4. Canned Tuna Sushi

Plate of sushi with ginger, wasabi, and soy sauce.

Canned tuna sushi is an easy and budget-friendly way to enjoy sushi at home.

Using readily available canned tuna, this recipe combines it with mayo and a touch of soy sauce for a tasty filling.

Wrapped in seasoned sushi rice and nori, it's a quick and convenient option for sushi lovers.

Perfect for beginners or anyone looking for a simple sushi fix, canned tuna sushi is delicious and satisfying.

Give it a try and surprise yourself!

Canned Tuna Sushi

5. Seafood Sushi Bake

A piece of baked sushi in nori (seaweed sheet) on a white plate.

Seafood sushi bake is a delicious and easy twist on traditional sushi rolls.

This recipe layers seasoned sushi rice, imitation crab, and cucumber, topped with a spicy sriracha mayo mixture, and then baked until warm and bubbly.

It's perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a comforting meal at home. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a crowd-pleaser.

Try this seafood sushi bake for a fun and flavorful take on sushi that's simple to prepare!

Seafood Sushi Bake

6. Cucumber Wrapped Sushi Roll

Cucumber wrapped sushi roll is a refreshing and low-carb option for sushi enthusiasts.

Instead of nori, thinly sliced cucumber wraps around the sushi fillings, such as fresh fish, avocado, and veggies.

This roll offers a crisp texture and a light, healthy twist on traditional sushi.

It's perfect for those looking to cut down on carbs or try something new.

Cucumber Wrapped Sushi Roll

7. Dragon Roll Sushi Recipe

The dragon roll sushi recipe is a visually stunning and delicious treat.

This roll typically features tempura shrimp, cucumber, and avocado, topped with thinly sliced avocado to resemble dragon scales.

Drizzled with eel sauce, the dragon roll offers a perfect blend of flavors and textures.

It's a fun and impressive sushi roll to make at home, sure to wow your friends and family.

Dragon Roll Sushi Recipe

8. Easy Salmon Nigiri

Easy salmon nigiri is a simple and delightful way to enjoy sushi at home.

This recipe features fresh slices of salmon atop small beds of seasoned sushi rice, creating a beautiful and delicious bite.

With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create restaurant-quality nigiri in your own kitchen.

Perfect for sushi beginners and pros alike, easy salmon nigiri is a must-try for anyone who loves the fresh taste of sushi.

Easy Salmon Nigiri

9. Alaska Roll

The Alaska roll is a fresh and flavorful sushi roll that's perfect for seafood lovers.

This roll features a delightful combination of crab, avocado, and cucumber inside, with a topping of thinly sliced salmon and a drizzle of spicy mayo or ponzu sauce.

The contrast between the creamy avocado, crunchy cucumber, and rich salmon makes each bite a treat.

Easy to make at home, the Alaska roll offers a delicious taste of the sea that's sure to impress your taste buds!

Alaska Roll
California sushi on a plate.

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Recipe

Close up image of sushi on a slate board.

Delicious and Simple Sushi Roll Recipes

Emily
Here is a collection of easy to make sushi recipes.
From hosomaki to inside out sushi rolls, there is plenty of recipes to choose from - whether you're after a light snack, lunch box treat, or even a dinner recipe.
5 from 1 vote
PRINT RECIPE PIN RECIPE
Prep Time 20 minutes mins
Cook Time 15 minutes mins
Resting Time 15 minutes mins
Total Time 50 minutes mins
ESTIMATED COST : $8.80 pr $1.46 a roll
Course Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine Asian
Servings 6 sushi rolls
Calories 411 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1. California Sushi Roll Recipe `
  • 2. Spicy Tuna Sushi Recipe
  • 3. Hosomaki
  • 4. Canned Tuna Sushi
  • 5. Seafood Sushi Bake
  • 6. Cucumber Wrapped Sushi Roll
  • 7. Dragon Roll Sushi Recipe
  • 8. Easy Salmon Nigiri
  • 9. Alaska Roll

Instructions
 

  • Choose your favorite recipe from the list above.
  • Gather all the ingredients.
  • Follow the recipe directions and make a delicious sushi recipe.

Notes

Nutrition, serving size and cook times are based on the first recipe on the recipe card.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 sushi rollCalories: 411kcalCarbohydrates: 73gProtein: 10gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 931mgPotassium: 193mgFiber: 3gSugar: 12g
Nutrition Disclosure
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it went!

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Comments

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    Recipe Rating




  1. Carl says

    July 24, 2024 at 10:21 pm

    5 stars
    This really cleared things up for me. Thanks.

    Reply
Author image.

Hi, I'm Emily! There's much more to rice than just cooking it on the stove. It's so versatile and you can create so many beautiful dishes with it. From puddings and desserts to main meals and even finger foods. There is something for everyone!

More about me →

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