Shrimp Sushi Bowl California Dreamin in a Bowl

Recipe Introduction: California Dreamin' in a Bowl
Fancy a shrimp sushi bowl ? Honestly, who doesn't love sushi? But sometimes, all that rolling can be a right pain.
This recipe is my answer. It's basically a deconstructed California roll, aka California roll bowl , that's super easy to throw together.
Quick Hook
Ever craved sushi but couldn't be bothered with the fuss? This shrimp sushi bowl recipe hits all the right spots! Imagine that creamy avocado, fresh cucumber, and juicy shrimp all dancing together!
Brief Overview
The easy sushi bowl takes inspiration from the classic California roll. It's ready in under 40 minutes. It's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner recipe for 2 or 3 people.
It's all the flavour without the stress.
Main Benefits
This homemade sushi bowl is packed with protein and healthy fats. It's a great way to get your omega-3s. Serve it up any night of the week for a healthy and satisfying meal.
What makes this sushi rice bowl extra special? The spicy mayo, of course!
Now, you might be wondering about the history. See, the California roll is said to be originated in Los Angeles, with a sushi chef trying to adapt a poke recipe to cater to the palates of American customers who might not have been used to raw fish.
While this shrimp poke bowl uses cooked shrimp rather than raw fish, the California roll remains popular with many across the world.
Ready to dive into the sushi bowl ingredients ? Honestly, its so easy!
Ingredients & Equipment for Your Shrimp Sushi Bowl Extravaganza
So, you're keen on making a shrimp sushi bowl ? Ace! This easy sushi bowl is all about fresh flavors.
Think deconstructed california roll , but way easier. Honestly, it's a weeknight dinner recipe winner. Let's round up what you'll need.
Main Sushi Bowl Ingredients: Freshness is Key!
- Sushi Rice: 1 cup (200g) . Use sushi rice, not just any old rice. Trust me on this one!
- Water: 1 1/4 cups (300ml) . For cooking that perfect sushi rice.
- Rice Vinegar: 2 tablespoons (30ml) . This is what gives it that authentic tang.
- Sugar: 1 tablespoon (15ml) . Just a touch to balance the flavors.
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) . Brings out all the other flavors.
- Shrimp: 1 pound (450g) , peeled and deveined. Go for fresh if you can, you can tell the fresh ones by the ocean smell and firmness.
- Soy Sauce: 1 tablespoon (15ml) . For marinating the shrimp.
- Sesame Oil: 1 teaspoon (5ml) . Adds a nutty depth.
- Ginger: 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) , grated. Gives it a lovely zing.
- Garlic: 1 clove , minced. Because garlic makes everything better, right?
- Avocado: 1 , diced. Make sure it's ripe but not mushy.
- Cucumber: 1 , seeded and diced. Adds a nice crunch.
- Nori Seaweed: 4 sheets , cut into strips. Get the roasted kind!
- Mayonnaise: 2 tablespoons (30ml) . Japanese Kewpie mayo is the absolute bomb.
- Sriracha: 1 tablespoon (15ml) , or to taste. For that spicy mayo sushi bowl kick.
- Sesame Seeds: 2 tablespoons (30ml) , toasted. Toasting them is essential!.
- Lime wedges: Fresh lemon can do the job.
Seasoning Notes: Amp Up the Flavor
The combo of soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic transforms the shrimp. Seriously, don't skip that marinade! For the spicy mayo, sriracha is classic, but you can use any chili sauce you fancy.
If you are making a shrimp poke bowl just add poke sauce!
Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple
You don't need fancy gear for this homemade sushi bowl . Just the basics:
- Medium saucepan with a lid. For cooking the rice like a pro.
- Mixing bowls. You'll need a few for the shrimp and sauce.
- Small bowl. For mixing that fiery spicy mayo.
- Chopping board and knife. Obviously!
That's it! Now you're ready to whip up this california roll bowl . Honestly, once you try this shrimp sushi bowl recipe , you'll ditch takeout forever. Enjoy!
Cooking Method: Nailing Your Shrimp Sushi Bowl
Honestly, are you craving a shrimp sushi bowl ? It is the best way to enjoy the taste of deconstructed california roll without the hassle.
It is also a delightful weeknight dinner recipe . Let's dive in, yeah?
Prep Steps: Mise en Place Magic
First things first, let's get organized. Essential mise en place is key! Chop your cucumbers and avocado. Prepare your spicy mayo sushi bowl sauce.
For the shrimp, mix the marinade. Honestly, this is the secret to a stress free easy sushi bowl .
Safety reminder: Watch those fingers when chopping. No one wants a sliced digit in their homemade sushi bowl .
step-by-step Process: Bowl Building 101
Follow these steps to nail your shrimp poke bowl :
- Cook sushi rice : Combine 1 cup (200g) rice and 1 1/4 cups (300ml) water. Simmer covered for 18 minutes .
- Season : Mix 2 tablespoons (30ml) rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon (15ml) sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) salt. Fold into the rice.
- Cool the rice : Spread it on a plate for about 10 minutes . No one wants sticky rice.
- Cook shrimp : Marinate 1 pound (450g) shrimp in soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic. Cook for 2- 3 minutes per side until pink.
- Make spicy mayo : Mix 2 tablespoons (30ml) mayonnaise and 1 tablespoon (15ml) sriracha.
- Assemble : Add the cooked sushi rice bowl to a bowl, then top with shrimp, avocado, cucumber, and nori.
- Drizzle and serve : Add a generous drizzle of spicy mayo and some sesame seeds on top!
Pro Tips: Sushi Bowl Guru
Avoid the common mistake of overcooking the shrimp. No one wants rubbery shrimp. The best trick? Cool the rice properly. It makes all the difference!
You can make the sushi bowl ingredients in advance! Cook the rice and prep the veggies ahead of time. The california roll bowl awaits!
Recipe Notes: Nailing Your Shrimp Sushi Bowl
Right then, let's chat about making this shrimp sushi bowl recipe the absolute best it can be. I've made my fair share of these, and I've picked up a few tricks along the way.
Think of these as your little cheatsheet to homemade sushi bowl perfection.
Serving Suggestions: Level Up Your Bowl Game
Honestly, presentation matters. I like to arrange everything in little sections. This deconstructed california roll deserves to look as good as it tastes.
Think vibrant colours and contrasting textures. Serve your shrimp sushi bowl in a nice bowl. It just makes it feel a bit more special, you know?
For sides, keep it simple. Miso soup is always a winner. Edamame pods are a fun, interactive snack. A glass of iced green tea? Bang on.
Storage Tips: Keepin' it Fresh
Got leftovers? No worries. Put it in an airtight container. It will last in the fridge for a day or two.
The rice might dry out a bit. To solve that you can sprinkle a little water when reheating. I would advise against freezing.
No good!
When reheating, a quick zap in the microwave will do. Just don't overdo it and make the sushi rice bowl rock hard, yeah?
Variations: Get Creative, innit?
Fancy a bit of spice? Mix a bit more spicy mayo sushi bowl into it!. Swap out the shrimp for cooked tuna. Suddenly, it's a spicy tuna bowl !
If you're veggie, just ditch the shrimp and throw in some tofu. Or try tempeh! For a low-carb version, swap the rice for cauliflower rice, easy peasy.
Use whatever sushi bowl ingredients you have on hand. Making this easy sushi bowl adaptable to your tastes. Consider swapping out regular rice with brown rice.
Nutrition Basics: Goodness in a Bowl
This shrimp poke bowl isn't just tasty. It's pretty good for you too. You're looking at a good whack of protein from the shrimp.
Healthy fats from the avocado. Carbs for energy from the rice. It’s a well rounded weeknight dinner recipe . This california roll bowl provides a good dose of nutrients.
Alright, so go on and get stuck in! Don't be afraid to experiment. This shrimp sushi bowl is super forgiving. You'll get a great bowl by trying your own thing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this shrimp sushi bowl ahead of time?
While the shrimp sushi bowl is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep some components in advance. Cook the rice and shrimp, chop the vegetables, and mix the spicy mayo ahead of time. Store everything separately in the fridge, then assemble just before serving to prevent the rice from drying out and the avocado from browning.
Think of it like prepping your full English, but with a Japanese twist!
What's the best way to cook the shrimp for a shrimp sushi bowl?
For the best texture, quickly cooking the shrimp is key. Poaching them gently in simmering water or sauteing them in a pan with a touch of sesame oil, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic, as in the recipe, works wonders. Avoid overcooking them at all costs rubbery shrimp is a proper letdown!
Cook them until they're just pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side.
I don't have rice vinegar. What can I use instead for my shrimp sushi bowl?
Don't fret! If you're out of rice vinegar, white wine vinegar or even apple cider vinegar can work in a pinch. Just use slightly less (about 1.5 tablespoons instead of 2) and add a tiny pinch more sugar to balance the acidity.
You'll still get that signature tangy flavor that makes sushi rice so darn addictive; a bit like substituting Earl Grey with Darjeeling similar, but not quite the same.
How long will leftover shrimp sushi bowl keep, and how should I store it?
Leftovers are great for lunch the next day! Store any leftover shrimp sushi bowl in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Be aware that the rice may dry out slightly and the avocado might brown a bit, even with lemon juice.
A gentle stir before eating should sort it, but this bowl is definitely best enjoyed fresh, like a proper Sunday roast!
Can I use different types of seafood in my shrimp sushi bowl?
Absolutely! This bowl is incredibly versatile. If you're not a fan of shrimp, cooked salmon, tuna (canned or seared), or even crab meat would be delicious alternatives. Think of it as your personal seafood buffet in a bowl! Just be sure to adjust the seasonings to complement the type of seafood you choose.
Is there a vegetarian version of the shrimp sushi bowl?
You bet! To make a vegetarian shrimp sushi bowl, simply omit the shrimp and add a protein alternative. Tofu (baked or pan-fried), edamame, or even marinated tempeh would be fantastic options. You could also add extra veggies like bell peppers or shredded carrots for added flavor and texture.
Think of it like a veggie packed Buddha bowl, but with a sushi twist.
Shrimp Sushi Bowl California Dreamin In A Bowl

Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 600-700 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 25-35g |
| Fiber | 5-7g |