Step 1: Prepare the Sushi Rice 🍚

Start by rinsing the sushi rice under cold water to remove excess starch. This will help the rice become sticky and perfect for sushi. Once rinsed, cook the rice according to the package instructions, either in a rice cooker or on the stovetop. After it’s cooked, allow the rice to cool to room temperature.

Once the rice has cooled, season it with a mixture of rice vinegar, sugar, and salt for that authentic sushi rice flavor. Set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients 🥑🥒🍤

While the rice is cooling, prepare the fillings. Slice the cucumber into thin strips and the avocado into thin wedges. If using shrimp, cook the shrimp by boiling or grilling them until they are fully cooked. If using crab meat, shred it into small pieces. Make sure everything is ready to go before you begin assembling the sushi.

Step 3: Assemble the Sushi Roll 🍣

Place a bamboo sushi mat on a clean surface. Lay a sheet of nori, shiny side down, onto the mat. Spread a thin, even layer of sushi rice on the nori, leaving a 1-inch space at the top of the sheet.

Arrange the cucumber, avocado, and crab or shrimp in a straight line across the middle of the rice. Using the bamboo mat, gently roll the sushi from the bottom, applying light pressure to form a tight roll. Once you reach the top, dampen the edge of the nori with a little water to seal the roll.

Using a sharp knife, slice the roll into 6-8 pieces, making sure to dip the knife in water to prevent the rice from sticking.

Step 4: Make the Volcano Sauce 🌶️🔥

In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, eel sauce, and lemon juice. Stir the ingredients until smooth and well combined. Taste the sauce and adjust the spice level by adding more sriracha, depending on how spicy you prefer the roll to be.

Step 5: Bake the Volcano Roll Topping 🔥

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place your sushi rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spoon the Volcano sauce generously over each sushi piece. The sauce should cover the top of each piece of sushi.

Bake the rolls for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and golden brown, mimicking the lava effect. Be sure to watch them closely to prevent burning.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy 🍣✨

Once baked, remove the rolls from the oven and transfer them to a serving plate. Garnish with additional eel sauce, sesame seeds, or chopped green onions if desired. Serve with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger for the complete sushi experience. Enjoy your Volcano Roll hot and fresh! 🥢