If you have ever craved a sushi roll that perfectly balances creamy, smoky, and fresh flavors, then you are in for a treat with this Philadelphia Roll Recipe. This iconic roll brings together luscious cream cheese, delicate smoked salmon, crisp cucumber, and tender sushi rice wrapped in nori, creating a harmonious bite every single time. Whether you’re an experienced sushi lover or just looking to impress friends with homemade sushi, this recipe delivers a delightful and accessible introduction to crafting rolls bursting with vibrant textures and tastes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To recreate this Philadelphia Roll Recipe at home, all you need are a handful of simple, fresh ingredients that each play a crucial role. From creamy to crunchy, smoky to subtle, these components create a balanced and visually appealing sushi roll worth savoring.
- Seasoned sushi rice (4 cups): The sticky, slightly vinegary foundation that holds the roll together and adds a gentle tang.
- Cream cheese (4-6 ounces, cut into strips): Adds a smooth, rich creaminess that melts beautifully against the smoky salmon.
- Smoked salmon (4 ounces, thinly sliced): Provides a savory, perfect smoky flavor — a star ingredient in this recipe.
- Cucumber (1 small, julienned): Offers a crisp, refreshing crunch that keeps each bite light and fresh.
- Toasted sesame seeds (optional): Adds a subtle nutty aroma and a bit of crunch for an extra layer of texture and color.
- Nori sheets (4 sheets, roasted): The essential seaweed wrappers that lend a slightly salty sea flavor and keep everything snug.
How to Make Philadelphia Roll Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Rice and Filling
Start by preparing your seasoned sushi rice as directed, ensuring it is fluffy and sticky enough to hold together. While the rice cools to room temperature, slice the cream cheese into long strips and thinly slice the smoked salmon. The cucumber should be julienned into matchstick-sized pieces which add both texture and freshness to the roll.
Step 2: Lay Down the Rice on Nori
Take one nori sheet and place it rough side up on your bamboo sushi rolling mat. Using a rice paddle, spread about one cup of sushi rice evenly over the nori’s surface. Wet your fingertips with water and gently press the rice, making sure it reaches all edges without clumping.
Step 3: Add Sesame Seeds and Flip
Sprinkle a light layer of toasted black sesame seeds across the rice if you like a little extra crunch and flavor. Carefully place a piece of plastic wrap over the rice, then flip the entire nori sheet so the rice side is down on the plastic-covered mat, leaving the smooth side of the nori facing up for the filling.
Step 4: Place the Filling
Near the edge closest to you, arrange 2-3 strips of cream cheese, about one ounce of smoked salmon, and a few cucumber sticks evenly across the nori. This off-center placement ensures that your filling fits perfectly when rolled.
Step 5: Roll the Sushi
Starting from the edge closest to you, carefully lift the bamboo mat and begin rolling it away from you, applying gentle pressure to keep the filling tight. Keep rolling until the seam closes, forming a neat, compact roll. Repeat this process for the remaining nori sheets and fillings.
Step 6: Cut the Sushi
For the cleanest cuts, rinse a sharp chef’s knife under cold water and slice 2-3 pieces at a time. You can cut the rolls either with the plastic wrap on to retain shape or remove it first depending on your preference. Aim for 8-10 pieces per roll to share and enjoy.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Before serving, remove the plastic wrap if still on, sprinkle with additional toasted sesame seeds, and present the Philadelphia Roll alongside soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger. The aromatic blend of flavors and textures you’ve created will have everyone reaching for seconds.
How to Serve Philadelphia Roll Recipe
Garnishes
Some simple garnishes like a sprinkle of toasted black sesame seeds or finely chopped green onions can elevate the look and add subtle contrasting flavors. A small dollop of wasabi and pickled ginger slices are traditional condiments that enhance the overall sushi experience.
Side Dishes
Pair your rolls with classic Japanese sides such as miso soup, edamame beans lightly salted, or a crisp seaweed salad. These sides add balance and variety while keeping the meal authentic and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, consider serving your Philadelphia Rolls on a slate board arranged with colorful sauces drizzled artistically or stacked in a sushi tower for impressive plating. You can even offer mini soy sauce dipping bowls or edible flowers for a touch of elegance that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers from your Philadelphia Roll Recipe, wrap the sushi tightly in plastic wrap to prevent the rice from drying out and store in the refrigerator. Best enjoyed within 24 hours for optimum freshness and texture.
Freezing
Freezing sushi is generally not recommended because the texture of the rice and cream cheese changes once thawed, and the nori can become soggy. However, if you must freeze, wrap tightly and consume within one month, thawing slowly in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating
Sushi is best eaten fresh and is not intended to be reheated. If necessary, let the roll come to room temperature before eating, but avoid microwaving as this will alter the texture and flavor dramatically.
FAQs
Can I use regular raw salmon instead of smoked salmon?
While you can use fresh raw salmon, for a true Philadelphia Roll Recipe experience, smoked salmon provides a unique smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the cream cheese. Using raw salmon also requires sushi-grade fish and extra care with food safety.
Is it difficult to roll sushi at home?
Not at all! With a bit of practice and a good bamboo sushi mat, rolling sushi can be a fun and rewarding process. The key is to keep the rice sticky but not too wet and to roll with gentle, consistent pressure.
Can I substitute cream cheese with something else?
Cream cheese is a signature ingredient in the Philadelphia Roll, offering that creamy texture and mild tang. However, if you prefer a non-dairy option, try a soft avocado spread or vegan cream cheese alternatives.
How long does it take to make this Philadelphia Roll Recipe?
This recipe takes about 45 minutes from start to finish, including preparing the rice, assembling, and cutting the rolls. It’s perfect for a casual dinner or impressing guests with your homemade sushi skills.
What is the best way to keep sushi rice from sticking to my hands?
Keep a small bowl of water nearby and frequently wet your fingers while handling the rice. This prevents sticking and helps spread the rice evenly on the nori without clumps.
Final Thoughts
Trying your hand at this Philadelphia Roll Recipe opens up a delightful world of homemade sushi that is both approachable and satisfying. Each bite combines creamy, smoky, and fresh flavors in a way that will have you coming back for more. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the fun and delicious journey of crafting sushi right in your own kitchen!
Print
Philadelphia Roll Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (4 rolls, each cut into 8-10 pieces)
- Category: Sushi Roll
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Japanese
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This classic Philadelphia Roll recipe combines seasoned sushi rice, creamy cream cheese, smoky salmon, and fresh cucumber, all wrapped in roasted nori sheets. Perfectly rolled and garnished with toasted sesame seeds, it’s an easy-to-make sushi roll that brings restaurant-quality flavors to your kitchen in about 45 minutes.
Ingredients
Sushi Rice
- 4 cups seasoned sushi rice (cooked)
Fillings
- 4–6 ounces cream cheese, cut into 8–10 strips
- 4 ounces smoked salmon, thinly sliced
- 1 small cucumber, julienned
Wrap and Garnish
- 4 sheets nori (roasted)
- Toasted black sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare rice and filling: Cook and season the sushi rice according to your preferred recipe or package instructions. While the rice cools, cut the cream cheese into thin strips, slice the smoked salmon, and julienne the cucumber into matchstick-sized pieces.
- Add rice to nori: Place one sheet of roasted nori on a bamboo sushi mat with the rough side facing up. Add 1 cup of seasoned sushi rice evenly over the nori. Use a rice paddle or your fingertips moistened with water to spread the rice gently to all edges without tearing the nori.
- Add sesame seeds: If using, sprinkle a light layer of toasted black sesame seeds over the rice for added texture and flavor. Cover the rice with a piece of plastic wrap, then carefully flip the nori sheet over so the rice side is down on the plastic wrap and the nori is facing up on the bamboo mat.
- Add ingredients to nori: On the nori side facing you and slightly off-center, lay 2-3 strips of cream cheese, about 1 ounce of smoked salmon, and a few julienned cucumber pieces in a line.
- Roll the sushi: Starting at the edge closest to you, gently lift the bamboo mat and begin rolling it away from you, pressing firmly but gently to keep the roll tight while tucking in the fillings as you go. Be careful not to catch the plastic wrap in the roll. Repeat this process with the remaining sheets of nori and fillings to make 4 rolls total.
- Cut the sushi: You can cut the rolls with the plastic wrap still on to keep them intact or remove the wrap first. Using a sharp chef’s knife dipped in cold water, cut each roll into 8-10 bite-sized pieces by slicing 2-3 pieces at a time. Clean the knife between cuts to ensure smooth edges.
- Serve: If the plastic wrap is still on, remove it carefully before plating. Garnish the Philadelphia rolls with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds, and serve with traditional accompaniments such as wasabi, pickled ginger, and soy sauce. Enjoy your fresh homemade sushi!
Notes
- For best results, use short-grain Japanese sushi rice and properly season it with rice vinegar, sugar, and salt.
- Keep your hands wet when handling sushi rice to prevent sticking.
- If cream cheese is too soft, chill it slightly before slicing to get clean strips.
- Use a very sharp knife and clean between cuts for smooth, clean sushi slices.
- Plastic wrap helps to keep rolls tight and prevents rice from sticking to the bamboo mat.
- If you prefer, substitute smoked salmon with fresh sashimi-grade salmon, but ensure freshness and proper freezing to avoid parasites.
- Feel free to customize by adding avocado or green onion for additional flavor.
