Inside-Out Avocado Rolls with Chives and Cashews: A Textural Symphony

I still remember the first time I encountered an inside-out sushi roll, particularly one that dared to showcase its vibrant fillings. It was a revelation, a playful defiance of tradition that opened up a world of textural and visual possibilities. This particular combination, with its creamy avocado, crisp chives, and the delightful crunch of roasted cashews, was a moment of pure culinary joy. It’s a dish that whispers of sophisticated flavors while being wonderfully approachable, perfect for a weeknight indulgence or an impressive appetizer when friends gather.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes (assuming cooked rice is ready)
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4 (or 6 as an appetizer)
• Yields: 24 pieces
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian, Vegan-adaptable (depending on mayonnaise)

Ingredients

For the Avocado Filling:

• 1 large avocado (or 2 small avocados), ripe but firm
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (Japanese mayonnaise is preferred for its distinct flavor and texture)
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
• 1 teaspoon wasabi paste (optional, for a touch of heat)

For the Cashew and Chive Mixture:

• 3 ounces cashews (roasted and salted cashews work exceptionally well here for added flavor)
• 3-4 chives, finely chopped

For the Sushi Base:

• 2 sheets nori, each cut in half horizontally
• 2 cups cooked rice, seasoned with sushi vinegar seasoning (refer to #315511 Easy Sushi Rice for preparation)

For the Hand Vinegar:

• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 1 cup water

Equipment Needed

• Small to medium mixing bowls
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Bamboo sushi rolling mat (makisu)
• Plastic wrap

Instructions

1. Prepare the Avocado Filling: Begin by peeling your avocado(s). Cut them into small chunks and place them into a mixing bowl. Add the lemon juice, mayonnaise, sea salt, and wasabi paste (if you’re using it for that subtle kick). Gently toss and mash the avocado mixture together with a fork. The key here is to achieve a slightly chunky consistency, not a complete mush. Aim for a texture that still has some discernible avocado pieces. Once mixed, divide this avocado mixture into four equal portions. Set these aside.

2. Prepare the Cashew and Chive Mixture: Next, finely chop the cashews until they are reduced to small pieces. You can do this with a sharp knife or by pulsing them briefly in a food processor, being careful not to turn them into a powder. In a separate bowl, combine the finely chopped cashews with the finely chopped chives. Mix these two ingredients together thoroughly. Divide this cashew and chive mixture into four equal portions. Set these aside.

3. Portion the Sushi Rice: Ensure your sushi rice is seasoned and at room temperature. Divide the cooked, seasoned rice into four equal portions. This will make assembly more manageable and ensure an even distribution of rice in each roll.

4. Prepare the Hand Vinegar: In a small bowl, combine the 1/4 cup of rice vinegar with the 1 cup of water. Stir to combine. This mixture, often called “tezu” in Japanese cuisine, is essential for keeping your hands from sticking to the sticky sushi rice. Keep this bowl nearby for easy dipping.

5. Assemble the Rolls – Step 1 (Rice and Nori): Lay your bamboo sushi rolling mat flat on your work surface. Cover the rolling mat with a sheet of plastic wrap. This plastic wrap will prevent the rice from sticking to the mat and make cleanup a breeze. Place half a sheet of nori on top of the plastic-wrapped mat, with the rough side facing upwards and the long edge positioned closest to you. Dip your fingertips into the hand vinegar mixture, shaking off any excess. Take one portion of the seasoned rice and spread it out in a thin, even layer over the nori. Be sure to leave approximately a 3/4-inch border of nori bare along the far edge of the sheet.

6. Assemble the Rolls – Step 2 (Cashew and Chive Layer): Gently sprinkle one portion of the cashew and chive mixture evenly over the layer of rice. Lightly press the mixture into the rice with your fingers to help it adhere.

7. Assemble the Rolls – Step 3 (The Flip): This is where the “inside-out” magic truly begins. Carefully lift the entire assembly (nori, rice, and cashew mixture) and flip it over, so that the rice-covered side is now face down onto the plastic wrap. To make this flipping process easier and to ensure the rice doesn’t stick to the rolling mat during the next step, you can lay another piece of plastic wrap on top of the rice layer before flipping. Once flipped, you can then peel off this extra piece of plastic wrap, leaving the nori exposed and facing upwards.

8. Assemble the Rolls – Step 4 (Avocado Filling): Place one portion of the prepared avocado filling in a neat line along the long edge of the nori closest to you. Aim to keep the avocado relatively compact to facilitate a tight roll.

9. Assemble the Rolls – Step 5 (Rolling and Cutting): Using the bamboo rolling mat as your guide, carefully begin to roll up the nori from the edge closest to you, enclosing the avocado filling. Roll it tightly, using the mat to shape and compress the roll as you go. Once you have a log, you can either cut it in half immediately, or further tighten the roll before cutting. Cut the log in half. Then, cut each half into three equal pieces, yielding a total of 6 pieces per roll.

10. Repeat and Complete: Repeat steps 5 through 9 with the remaining ingredients to make three more rolls. This will result in a total of 24 delicious inside-out sushi pieces.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Avocado Perfection: The ripeness of your avocado is crucial. It should yield to gentle pressure but not be overly soft. An avocado that is too hard will be difficult to mash and may not hold its shape well, while one that is too ripe can become mushy and unappealing.
• Cashew Crunch: For the best texture, don’t over-process your cashews. A slightly coarse chop will provide a more satisfying crunch against the creamy avocado and soft rice.
• Rice Matters: The quality and seasoning of your sushi rice are paramount. Ensure it’s properly cooked and seasoned with sushi vinegar for that authentic flavor. Leftover, unseasoned rice can be rehydrated and re-seasoned, but fresh sushi rice will always yield the best results.
• Wasabi Zing: If you love a bit of heat, don’t shy away from the wasabi. It adds a wonderful depth of flavor and a gentle warmth that complements the richness of the avocado and the saltiness of the cashews. Start with a smaller amount if you’re unsure and adjust to your preference.
• Handy Hints: Keep your hand vinegar replenished throughout the rolling process. Sticky hands are the enemy of neat sushi rolls. A small bowl of warm water can also be used in conjunction with the vinegar for extra slippiness.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These Inside-Out Avocado Rolls are best enjoyed fresh, when the avocado is at its peak creaminess and the nori is still slightly crisp. Arrange them attractively on a platter, perhaps garnished with a few extra chive slivers or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. Serve with traditional accompaniments like pickled ginger, wasabi, and soy sauce for dipping.

If you happen to have any leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, be aware that the avocado may darken slightly, and the texture of the nori will soften. To best enjoy them, consume them as soon as possible after refrigeration. They are not ideal for freezing.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving (approx. 6 pieces)	% Daily Value (approx.)
Calories	150 kcal	8%
Total Fat	7 g	9%
Saturated Fat	1.2 g	6%
Cholesterol	1 mg	0%
Sodium	120 mg	5%
Total Carbohydrate	18 g	7%
Dietary Fiber	2 g	7%
Sugars	1 g	1%
Protein	3 g	6%

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and preparation methods.

Variations & Substitutions

• Vegan Delight: To make this recipe entirely vegan, simply substitute the mayonnaise with a good quality vegan mayonnaise. The flavor profile will remain remarkably similar.
• Nutty Alternatives: If cashews aren’t your preference, try toasted almonds, pistachios, or even sunflower seeds for a delightful crunch.
• Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a bolder spice, a drizzle of sriracha or a thin layer of spicy mayo on top of the avocado before rolling can add an extra layer of heat.
• Vegetable Medley: While not traditional, you could experiment with adding a thin julienne of cucumber or bell pepper for extra texture and color. Ensure these vegetables are not too watery.

FAQs

Q: Why is it called an “inside-out” roll?
A: In an inside-out roll, the rice is on the outside, and the nori (seaweed) is on the inside, wrapping the fillings. This is the reverse of a traditional maki roll.

Q: What kind of mayonnaise is best for sushi?
A: Japanese mayonnaise, like Kewpie, is often preferred due to its richer, tangier flavor and smoother, creamier texture, which is ideal for sushi.

Q: Can I make the sushi rice ahead of time?
A: Yes, sushi rice can be cooked ahead of time and stored at room temperature for a few hours or refrigerated. If refrigerating, it’s best to gently reheat it before using to improve its texture.

Q: How do I prevent the rice from sticking to my hands?
A: The hand vinegar mixture (rice vinegar and water) is specifically designed to keep your hands from sticking. Dip your fingers in it frequently and shake off any excess.

Q: My avocado turned brown. Is it still safe to eat?
A: Avocado can oxidize and turn brown when exposed to air. While it might not look as appealing, it’s generally safe to eat. The lemon juice in the recipe helps to slow down this process.

A Culinary Hug

This Inside-Out Avocado Roll is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to play in the kitchen and to savor the simple pleasures of fresh ingredients coming together in harmony. The creamy avocado, punctuated by the nutty crunch of cashews and the fresh zing of chives, creates a symphony of textures and flavors that’s utterly delightful. It’s a dish that feels both healthy and indulgent, perfect for sharing with loved ones or for a moment of peaceful enjoyment all to yourself. Gather your ingredients, embrace the process, and let this roll bring a smile to your face.