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Air Fryer Sushi Recipe
Air Fryer Sushi is a modern and delicious take on the traditional sushi recipe. By using an air fryer, you achieve a delightful crispy texture on the outside while preserving the fresh and flavorful fillings on the inside. This recipe is perfect for sushi enthusiasts who want to explore a different way of enjoying their favorite dish or for those who prefer cooked sushi over raw. With easy-to-follow steps and simple ingredients, Air Fryer Sushi is accessible even for beginners. The combination of traditional sushi flavors with a crunchy coating makes this dish a hit at any meal or gathering. Try this fusion dish today and experience sushi like never before!
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Bamboo Sushi Mat
- Sharp knife
- Rice Cooker or Pot
- Mixing bowl
- Small bowl
- Cutting Board.
Ingredients
Sushi Rice
- 2 cups of sushi rice
- 2 ¼ cups of water
- ¼ cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
Fillings (Choose Your Favorites)
- 1 small cucumber julienned
- 1 avocado sliced
- ½ pound fresh salmon or tuna sliced thinly (optional)
- 4-6 imitation crab sticks
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese
- 2 tablespoons sriracha mayo for a spicy kick
- Pickled ginger and wasabi for serving
For Rolling
- 4 sheets of nori seaweed
- Sesame seeds optional
Air Fryer Coating
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs beaten
- ½ cup flour
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce optional
Instructions
Prepare the Sushi Rice
- Rinse the Rice: Begin by rinsing the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This step removes excess starch and helps the rice achieve the perfect sticky texture.
- Cook the Rice: Combine the rinsed rice with 2 ¼ cups of water in a rice cooker or pot. If using a pot, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 10 minutes.
- Season the Rice: In a small bowl, mix the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until the sugar dissolves. Transfer the cooked rice to a large mixing bowl and gently fold in the vinegar mixture while the rice is still warm. Let the seasoned rice cool to room temperature.
Prepare the Fillings
- While the rice is cooling, prepare your sushi fillings. Slice the cucumber, avocado, and fish (if using) into thin strips. If you prefer, mix the cream cheese with sriracha mayo for a spicy and creamy filling.
Assemble the Sushi Rolls
- Prepare Your Rolling Station: Place the bamboo sushi mat on a flat surface and cover it with plastic wrap. This helps prevent the rice from sticking to the mat. Place a sheet of nori, shiny side down, on the mat.
- Spread the Rice: Wet your fingers in a bowl of water to prevent the rice from sticking. Take a handful of sushi rice and spread it evenly over the nori, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
- Add the Fillings: Arrange your choice of fillings in a horizontal line across the center of the rice. Be careful not to overfill, as this can make rolling difficult.
- Roll the Sushi: Using the bamboo mat, carefully roll the sushi away from you, tucking the fillings in as you go. Apply gentle pressure to shape the roll. Once you reach the end, press the edge to seal the roll.
- Coat the Rolls: In a shallow dish, place the flour. In another dish, beat the eggs. In a third dish, place the panko breadcrumbs. Roll each sushi roll first in flour, then dip in the beaten eggs, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs.
Air Fry the Sushi
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat for about 5 minutes.
- Fry the Sushi Rolls: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the coated sushi rolls in the basket, ensuring they don’t touch each other. Lightly spray the tops of the rolls with cooking spray for extra crispiness.
- Cook the Rolls: Air fry the sushi rolls for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Cool and Slice: Remove the sushi rolls from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes. Using a sharp knife, slice each roll into bite-sized pieces.
Serve and Enjoy
- Arrange the air-fried sushi pieces on a platter. Sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired and serve with soy sauce, pickled ginger, and wasabi on the side. Enjoy your crispy Air Fryer Sushi with a side of miso soup or a light salad.
Notes
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Sushi
- Don’t Overstuff: When adding fillings, less is more. Overstuffing can make the rolls difficult to seal and fry evenly.
- Use Cold Rice: Ensure the sushi rice is at room temperature or slightly cooler when rolling. Warm rice can make the nori soggy.
- Sharp Knife for Cutting: Use a very sharp knife to slice the rolls, and clean the knife with a damp cloth between cuts to get clean, precise slices.
- Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to get creative with your fillings. Cooked shrimp, smoked salmon, or even vegetables like bell peppers and carrots can be delicious in air-fried sushi.
- Adjust Cooking Time: Every air fryer is slightly different, so keep an eye on the rolls while cooking and adjust the time as needed to achieve the perfect crisp.