Dynamite Roll Recipe – A Crunchy Sushi Delight at Home

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Dynamite Roll is a sushi lover’s dream, combining crispy tempura shrimp, creamy avocado, and the perfect balance of flavors in every bite. The combination of soft, sticky sushi rice with crunchy ingredients creates a delightful contrast. Topped with spicy mayo and a sweet, smoky unagi sauce, it offers a perfect mix of savory and spicy. Whether you’re a sushi connoisseur or a beginner, this easy-to-follow recipe will allow you to create restaurant-quality rolls in your own home. It’s fun to make, and the results are utterly delicious!

Ingredients

For the Sushi Roll

• 2 cups short-grain sushi rice (use for sticky texture)

• 8 sticks imitation crab sticks (or substitute with real crab meat)

• 1 cup Japanese mayonnaise (Kewpie mayo recommended)

• 1 medium avocado (ripe for creaminess)

• 1 medium English cucumber or Persian cucumber

• 5 sheets toasted nori seaweed for wrapping

For the Garnish & Sauce

• 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds (for crunch)

• 1 tablespoon black sesame seeds (optional garnish)

• 8 pieces tempura fried shrimp (for crunch inside the roll)

• 2 tablespoons unagi sauce (for topping)

• 2 tablespoons spicy mayo (adjust for spice preference)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook sushi rice: Rinse and cook sushi rice in a rice cooker until fluffy. Allow it to cool to room temperature.

2. Prepare crab mixture: Chop imitation crab sticks into small pieces. Combine with Japanese mayonnaise in a bowl and stir until well coated.

3. Set up your workstation: Cover your bamboo sushi mat with plastic wrap and place it on a flat surface.

4. Prepare nori: Lay a sheet of toasted nori on the sushi mat, shiny side down. Trim the edges if needed.

5. Spread the rice: Wet your hands and spread sushi rice evenly over the nori, leaving about an inch at the top uncovered.

6. Add sesame seeds: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds evenly over the rice.

7. Layer the fillings: Flip the nori and add the crab mixture, cucumber, avocado, and tempura shrimp in the center.

8. Roll it up: Starting from the bottom, roll the sushi away from you, applying slight pressure to keep it tight.

9. Slice & serve: With a sharp, wet knife, slice the roll into 8 pieces. Drizzle with spicy mayo and unagi sauce to taste.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2 rolls (makes about 16 pieces)

• Prep Time: 30 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Cooling Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

• Substitute tempura shrimp with other proteins: You can use grilled shrimp, crab, or even a vegetarian filling such as tofu.

• Different sauces: If you like a milder taste, use sweet chili sauce instead of spicy mayo for a sweeter flavor profile.

• Add extra vegetables: Try adding thin slices of carrots or pickled radish for an added crunch and color.

Storage/Reheating

Sushi is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store the rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. To maintain freshness, it’s ideal to eat the rolls within the same day. Avoid freezing sushi as it can affect the texture of the rice and the filling.

FAQs

How do I make sushi rice sticky?

To make sushi rice sticky, use short-grain sushi rice and rinse it thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch. After cooking, let it cool to room temperature before using it for the rolls.

Can I use real crab meat instead of imitation crab?

Yes, you can substitute imitation crab with real crab meat for a more authentic taste. Simply chop the crab meat into small pieces and mix it with mayonnaise.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by omitting the shrimp and crab, and replacing them with vegetables such as cucumber, avocado, and pickled radish.

Is Kewpie mayo essential for this recipe?

While you can use any mayonnaise, Kewpie mayo is preferred for its creamy texture and slightly tangy flavor. It adds a richer taste to the sushi.

Can I make the Dynamite Roll ahead of time?

Sushi is best made fresh. However, you can prepare the ingredients (rice, crab mixture, vegetables, and sauces) ahead of time and assemble the rolls just before serving.

How do I make sushi rolls tight?

To make the rolls tight, apply slight pressure as you roll them using your sushi mat. Be careful not to press too hard, as this can squish the ingredients.

How do I slice sushi rolls without squashing them?

To slice sushi rolls without squashing them, use a sharp knife and wet the blade between cuts to ensure clean, smooth slices.

Can I use regular cucumbers instead of English cucumbers?

Yes, you can use regular cucumbers, but be sure to remove the seeds as they can make the roll soggy.

What is unagi sauce?

Unagi sauce is a sweet, savory soy-based sauce typically used in Japanese cuisine. It’s often served with eel but pairs wonderfully with sushi rolls.

How do I make spicy mayo?

To make spicy mayo, mix mayonnaise with sriracha sauce. Adjust the amount of sriracha depending on your desired spice level.

Conclusion

This homemade Dynamite Roll is a crunchy, creamy, and flavorful sushi delight that will impress anyone you serve it to. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can enjoy a sushi bar experience right in your own kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a party or treating yourself to a delicious meal, this recipe is sure to satisfy your sushi cravings. Enjoy every bite of your Dynamite Roll!