The Alaska Roll is a sushi favorite that brings together fresh seafood flavors, creamy textures, and a hint of crunch. This roll features sushi-grade salmon, avocado, and cucumber wrapped in seasoned sushi rice and nori. Some variations take it a step further with tempura crunch or a spicy mayo drizzle, making it a versatile and delicious option for sushi lovers.
Perfect for both beginners and seasoned sushi makers, this Alaska Roll recipe will guide you through every step—from selecting the freshest ingredients to rolling like a pro. Grab your bamboo mat, and let’s get started!
🔗 What Does an Alaska Roll Have in It? – Learn more about the ingredients that make this roll a standout.
What is an Alaska Roll?
The Alaska Roll is a sushi roll that typically includes raw or smoked salmon, avocado, and cucumber, all wrapped in sushi rice and nori. Some variations also add crab meat (real or imitation), and others might be lightly battered and fried for a crunchy finish.
Despite its name, the Alaska Roll is not from Japan but was inspired by fresh, high-quality Alaskan salmon. It has gained popularity worldwide as a flavorful yet easy-to-make sushi option.
🔗 Check out the difference between a Philadelphia Roll and an Alaska Roll if you’re curious about how these two sushi favorites compare!
Ingredients & Substitutions
To create an authentic Alaska Roll, gather these essential ingredients:
Sushi Rice & Nori
- Sushi Rice – Japanese short-grain rice seasoned with rice vinegar, sugar, and salt for that signature sticky texture.
- Nori (Seaweed Sheets) – High-quality roasted nori works best for holding everything together.
Filling
- Salmon – Sushi-grade raw salmon or smoked salmon both work well. Wondering which is best? 🔗 Learn about wild vs. farmed salmon to make an informed choice.
- Avocado – Adds a creamy contrast to the fresh fish.
- Cucumber – Brings a crisp, refreshing crunch.
- Crab Meat (Optional) – Real or imitation crab can add a subtle sweetness.
Want to explore more delicious salmon dishes? 🔗 Check out this guide to salmon bowls for fresh and flavorful ideas.
How to Make an Alaska Roll
Making sushi at home is easier than it seems! Follow these step-by-step instructions to master the Alaska Roll.
1. Prepare the Sushi Rice
- Rinse the rice – Wash the short-grain sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch for the perfect sticky texture.
- Cook the rice – Follow package instructions or use a 1:1.25 rice-to-water ratio in a rice cooker.
- Season the rice – While warm, mix in rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Gently fold the rice with a wooden spoon and let it cool to room temperature.
2. Prepare the Fillings
- Slice the salmon – Using a sharp knife, cut the salmon into thin, even strips.
- Cut the avocado – Halve, pit, and slice the avocado into thin strips.
- Julienne the cucumber – Slice it into long, thin strips for extra crunch.
🔗 Curious how this roll differs from the Philadelphia Roll? Learn about the key differences!
3. Assemble the Roll
- Lay out a bamboo sushi mat, wrapping it in plastic wrap for easy rolling.
- Place a sheet of nori on the mat, shiny side down.
- Spread sushi rice evenly over the nori, leaving a ½-inch space at the top.
- Flip the nori over so the rice is on the outside.
- Arrange the fillings (salmon, avocado, cucumber, and optional crab meat) in a line across the center.
4. Roll It Up!
- Using the bamboo mat, lift the edge closest to you and roll it over the fillings.
- Apply gentle but firm pressure to keep the roll tight.
- Continue rolling until sealed.
- Use a sharp, wet knife to slice into 6-8 pieces.
5. Garnish & Serve
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds for a nutty crunch.
- Drizzle with spicy mayo or eel sauce for extra flavor.
- Serve with soy sauce, pickled ginger, and wasabi on the side.
Toppings & Variations
Want to put your own spin on the Alaska Roll? Try these delicious variations:
 Spicy Alaska Roll
- Add spicy mayo inside the roll.
- Mix sriracha into the sushi rice for extra heat.
 Crunchy Tempura Alaska Roll
- Coat the roll in tempura flakes for a crispy texture.
- Lightly batter and deep-fry the entire roll.
Feeling adventurous? 🔗 Try this fun punch recipe to pair with your sushi night!
How to Store Leftover Sushi
If you have leftover Alaska Rolls, here’s how to keep them fresh:
- Refrigerate immediately – Wrap tightly in plastic and store in an airtight container.
- Consume within 24 hours – Sushi is best when fresh.
- Revive dry sushi – Cover with a damp paper towel and microwave for 10 seconds.
Looking for more drink ideas to serve with sushi? 🔗 Check out this punch-making guide for a refreshing pairing.
Nutritional Content (Per 100g)
Below is the nutritional breakdown of an Alaska Roll per 100 grams, including its vitamin content:
| Nutrient | Amount (Per 100g) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 160 kcal |
| Protein | 8 g |
| Fat | 5 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1 g |
| Carbohydrates | 20 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
| Potassium | 250 mg (7% DV) |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | 700 mg |
| Vitamin E | 1.5 mg (10% DV) |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.2 mg (15% DV) |
| Vitamin K | 20 mcg (17% DV) |
Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Love This Alaska Roll Recipe
The Alaska Roll delivers a perfect balance of fresh, creamy, and crunchy textures in a single bite. Whether you’re making it for a sushi night at home or just craving a healthy, delicious meal, this recipe makes it simple and fun.
With just a few fresh ingredients and some practice, you’ll be rolling sushi like a pro in no time! So grab your sushi mat, fresh salmon, and let’s roll!