Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- If using cauliflower rice, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add cauliflower rice and sauté for 3-4 minutes until just tender and excess moisture evaporates. Season with rice vinegar and a pinch of salt. Transfer to a plate and let cool completely.
- Prepare all fillings: Slice cucumber into thin matchsticks. Cut avocados in half, remove pit, and slice into strips. Julienne bell peppers into thin strips. Wash and dry lettuce or sprouts. Slice fish or prepare shrimp into thin strips.
- Set up your rolling station with nori sheets, a bamboo mat (if using), and a small bowl of water for sealing and keeping fingers damp.
- For traditional-style rolls: Place one nori sheet shiny-side down on the bamboo mat. Spread a thin layer of cooled cauliflower rice over the nori, leaving a 1-inch border at the top edge.
- Arrange your chosen fillings in a horizontal line across the center of the rice layer. Use 2-3 strips of vegetables and protein per roll, keeping portions moderate.
- Using the bamboo mat, lift the edge closest to you and roll tightly over the fillings, applying gentle pressure. Continue rolling until you reach the bare nori edge. Wet the edge with a little water to seal.
- Let the roll rest seam-side down for 1 minute to seal. Using a sharp, wet knife, cut the roll into 6-8 pieces, wetting the knife between each cut.
- For cucumber wraps (rice-free option): Use a vegetable peeler to create long, wide cucumber ribbons. Lay 2-3 ribbons overlapping slightly. Place fillings at one end and roll tightly. Secure with a toothpick if needed.
- For avocado boats: Halve avocados and remove pits. Fill the cavity with diced cucumber, bell pepper, and chunks of fish or shrimp. Top with a small amount of low-sodium soy sauce and wasabi.
- Arrange sushi pieces on a serving platter. Serve immediately with small dishes of low-sodium soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger on the side.
Nutrition
Notes
This diabetic-friendly sushi adaptation uses cauliflower rice as the primary base, reducing net carbs to approximately 8g per serving compared to 35-40g in traditional sushi rolls. The combination of lean protein from fish, healthy fats from avocado, and fiber from vegetables creates a balanced meal that promotes stable blood sugar levels. Omega-3 fatty acids in fish support cardiovascular health, which is particularly important for individuals managing diabetes. The variety of preparation methods (cauliflower rice rolls, cucumber wraps, avocado boats) provides flexibility for different carb tolerance levels. Always monitor your individual blood sugar response and adjust portions accordingly. This recipe is compatible with Keto (under 20g net carbs per serving), Low-Carb, Gluten-Free (when using tamari), Dairy-Free, and Pescatarian diets.
