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🍣 Homemade Smoked Salmon Sushi Rolls with Veggies (Using a Sushi Bazooka!)

Updated: May 5

Have you ever wanted sushi but did not want to order it (again)? This smoked salmon sushi roll recipe uses simple ingredients, nutrient-rich fillings, and a sushi bazooka kit for a quick and easy prep. Whether you're a sushi newbie or a master, this guide will coach you through everything from making the ideal sushi rice to rolling it all together like a chef.

Sushi rolls on a black plate sit on a white table with a green potted plant. The room has a calm, cozy vibe with warm light.


🍚 How to Make Perfect Sushi Rice

Ingredients:

  • 1.5 cups short grain sushi rice

  • 1.5 cups cold water

Steps:

  1. First, rinse the rice thoroughly (about 5 times) until the water is largely clear. This removes extra starch and allows the rice to cook evenly.

  2. Add the rinsed rice and 1.5 cups of cold water to a pot.

  3. Bring to a boil over high heat.

  4. Once it reaches a boil, reduce to medium heat and cook for 10 minutes.

  5. Then, lower to low heat and cook for another 10 minutes.

  6. After that, turn off the heat completely and let the rice sit covered for 10 more minutes. Do not remove the lid, this step allows the rice to finish steaming.

🥣 Sushi Rice Seasoning

Ingredients:

  • ½ cup rice vinegar

  • 2 tbsp sugar

  • 1 tbsp salt

Instructions:

  • While the rice is cooking, combine the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt in a small pot or bowl. Gently stir until the sugar has dissolved. You can reheat the mixture slightly if necessary.

  • Feel free to tweak the sugar and salt to your liking.

  • Allow the rice and seasoning mixture to cool for 10 minutes after they have finished cooking.

  • Transfer the rice to a big bowl (ideally wooden or plastic), then gently fold in the seasoning mixture with a wooden spoon or spatula. To achieve the nicest texture, do not mash the rice; instead, use a slicing motion.

🥑 Filling Ingredients & Their Benefits

Now comes the fun part: assembly! You can be creative here, but here's what I used:

  • Smoked salmon: contains omega-3 fatty acids and high-quality protein. Provides delicious depth and healthful fats.

  • Avocado: Creamy texture, high in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, potassium, and fiber.

  • Carrots are crunchy, vibrant, and high in beta-carotene, which promotes eye health.

  • Cucumbers are refreshing and hydrating, with a delightful crunch. Low in calories, yet abundant in vitamin K.

  • Nori Sheets: Dried seaweed that holds everything together! High in iodine and trace minerals and contains trace minerals.




🍣 Step 4: Assemble Your Rolls – 2 Ways!

Method 1: Using a Sushi Bazooka Kit (Beginner-Friendly!)

If you've never used a sushi bazooka, you're in for a treat—it makes sushi rolling simple and consistent.

How to use it:

  1. Open the sushi bazooka and lightly grease the interior.

  2. Fill each half with a layer of your seasoned rice.

  3. Use your finger or a utensil to create a shallow channel in the middle of the rice.

  4. Place your fillings (smoked salmon, avocado, carrots, cucumber) evenly in the center groove.

  5. Carefully close the bazooka, clip it shut, and lock it in place.

  6. Push the plunger to release a perfect roll onto your nori sheet.

  7. Wrap the roll in the nori and let it sit seam-side down for a minute before slicing.

🧠 Tip: Use a moist knife to make clean slices and avoid squishing your roll!

Method 2: Traditional Rolling with a Bamboo Mat (Optional but Authentic)

If you prefer the hands-on method or want that classic sushi-rolling experience:

  1. Place a nori sheet shiny side down on a bamboo mat (or use plastic wrap and a clean towel).

  2. Wet your hands to prevent sticking, then spread a thin, even layer of sushi rice over the nori, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.

  3. Add your fillings across the center of the rice.

  4. Use the mat to gently roll the sushi away from you, tucking tightly as you go.

  5. Seal the edge with a bit of water and slice into 6–8 pieces.

🥢 Serve and Enjoy!

Pair your sushi rolls with:

  • Low-sodium soy sauce or tamari

  • Pickled ginger

  • A dab of wasabi

  • A side of miso soup or seaweed salad




🌱 Final Thoughts

Whether you use a sushi bazooka or go traditional, preparing sushi at home is more enjoyable, rewarding, and healthier than takeout. These smoked salmon rolls are packed with healthy fats, vitamins, and satisfying textures. Furthermore, the fresh fillings and nori offer an excellent combination of flavor and nutrition.

Ready to roll? 🍣

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