Godzilla Roll (Fried Shrimp Tempura Roll)

The Godzilla Roll is a delicious and bold sushi roll featuring crispy fried shrimp tempura, creamy avocado, and a tangy eel sauce, all wrapped in sushi rice and seaweed. It’s the perfect combination of crunchy, savory, and creamy flavors that will satisfy sushi lovers and newcomers alike.

Why I’ll Love This Recipe

I love how the crispy shrimp tempura adds a satisfying crunch, while the avocado provides a smooth contrast, and the eel sauce ties everything together with its sweet and savory richness. It’s a fun sushi roll to make and eat, with an irresistible combination of textures and flavors.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 cup sushi rice, cooked and seasoned with rice vinegar, sugar, and salt

• 4–5 large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1/2 cup tempura batter

• 1/4 cup cold water

• 1 sheet nori (seaweed)

• 1/2 avocado, sliced

• 1 tablespoon eel sauce (or soy sauce with a touch of honey)

• 1/4 cucumber, julienned (optional)

• Vegetable oil for frying

• Sesame seeds (optional)

Directions

1. I begin by preparing the shrimp tempura: in a small bowl, I mix the tempura batter with cold water until smooth.

2. I heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, I dip each shrimp into the tempura batter, then carefully fry them for 2-3 minutes until golden and crispy. I set them aside on paper towels to drain excess oil.

3. I lay a sheet of nori on a bamboo sushi mat, with the shiny side down. I spread a thin layer of the seasoned sushi rice over the nori, leaving about 1 inch at the top edge for sealing.

4. I place a few slices of avocado and some fried shrimp tempura along the center of the rice. If using, I also add a few cucumber strips for a fresh crunch.

5. I carefully roll the sushi from the bottom using the sushi mat, applying gentle pressure as I roll to make a tight cylinder.

6. I wet the top edge of the nori with a little water to seal the roll, then slice it into 6–8 pieces using a sharp knife.

7. I drizzle eel sauce over the roll and sprinkle with sesame seeds for extra flavor and crunch.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 1 sushi roll, which yields about 6–8 pieces. Prep time is about 15 minutes, and cook time for the shrimp tempura is about 5 minutes. So, I can have it ready in just under 30 minutes.

Variations

I like to:

• Add a drizzle of spicy mayo or sriracha for extra heat.

• Include a few strips of spicy tuna or crab salad in the center for a different filling.

• Substitute the shrimp with tempura vegetables like sweet potato or zucchini for a vegetarian version.

• Use soy sauce or a sweet soy glaze as a dipping sauce.

Storage/reheating

I recommend enjoying the Godzilla Roll fresh, as sushi rice doesn’t keep well in the fridge. If you have leftovers, it’s best to eat them within a few hours for the best taste and texture. I do not recommend reheating sushi, as it will lose its freshness.

FAQs

Can I make the shrimp tempura ahead of time?

Yes, you can fry the shrimp tempura ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. However, it’s best to assemble the roll fresh to keep the tempura crispy.

What kind of shrimp should I use for this roll?

Large, peeled, and deveined shrimp are perfect for this roll. I like to use jumbo shrimp for a nice bite and texture, but smaller shrimp will work too.

Can I make this roll without a sushi mat?

Yes, you can roll it by hand, though using a sushi mat makes it easier to create a tight, uniform roll.

Can I make the roll without eel sauce?

Absolutely! You can substitute eel sauce with a mixture of soy sauce and honey or even just use plain soy sauce for a less sweet, more savory option.

Can I make this roll gluten-free?

Yes, simply use a gluten-free tempura batter and gluten-free soy sauce, and you’ll have a delicious gluten-free Godzilla Roll!

Conclusion

The Godzilla Roll is a showstopper that combines the crispy goodness of fried shrimp tempura with the creaminess of avocado and a sweet eel sauce drizzle. It’s the perfect sushi roll for anyone craving bold flavors and textures in every bite. Whether you’re a sushi pro or a beginner, this roll is sure to impress at any meal.

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