Soy-Free Dragon Roll

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of the Soy-Free Dragon Roll—a sushi lover's dream, now reimagined for those seeking a soy-free alternative! This creative twist on the classic dragon roll features tender sushi rice, crisp cucumber matchsticks, creamy avocado slices, and grilled eel, all wrapped in a delicate layer of nori and softened rice paper for a unique dragon-scale effect. The dish is elevated by a luscious homemade soy-free glaze made from maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, and tapioca starch for the perfect balance of sweet and tangy. Whether you're avoiding soy or simply looking for a fresh take on sushi, this showstopping roll is as delicious as it is visually stunning, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Ready in just an hour, the Soy-Free Dragon Roll serves four and pairs wonderfully with a side of pickled ginger or crisp salad greens for a complete dining experience.

Nutriscore Rating: 69/100

Prep Time:40 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:60 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup Sushi rice
• 1.25 cups Water
• 2 tablespoons Rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Sugar
• 0.5 teaspoons Salt
• 2 pieces Nori (seaweed) sheets
• 0.5 whole Cucumber
• 1 whole Avocado
• 0.5 pound Grilled eel (unagi)
• 2 sheets Rice paper
• 2 tablespoons Maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon Balsamic vinegar
• 0.5 teaspoon Tapioca starch
• 1 teaspoon Water (for sauce)

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.

Step 2

Combine 1 cup of sushi rice with 1.25 cups of water in a rice cooker or saucepan. Cook according to the rice cooker instructions or bring to a boil in a saucepan, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes until water is absorbed and rice is tender.

Step 3

While rice is cooking, mix rice vinegar, sugar, and salt in a small bowl. Stir until sugar and salt dissolve.

Step 4

Transfer cooked rice to a large non-metallic bowl and gently fold in the vinegar mixture. Allow it to cool to room temperature.

Step 5

Slice the cucumber into thin matchsticks and the avocado into thin slices, discarding the seed and skin.

Step 6

On a cutting board, lay down a sushi mat and place a sheet of nori with the shiny side facing down. Those without a sushi mat can use a piece of plastic wrap as a substitute.

Step 7

Spread half of the cooled sushi rice evenly over the nori, leaving about a 1-inch border on the top edge.

Step 8

Flip the nori and rice so the rice is facing down, and add cucumber sticks, avocado slices, and grilled eel strips in a horizontal line across the center of the nori.

Step 9

Carefully roll the sushi tightly using the mat, applying gentle pressure to shape into a log. Seal the edge of the nori with a little water.

Step 10

Repeat with the remaining ingredients to make the second roll.

Step 11

For the soy-free sauce, whisk together maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, tapioca starch, and water in a small saucepan. Heat over medium heat, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens slightly, about 2-3 minutes. Let cool before using.

Step 12

Place a sheet of rice paper in lukewarm water until pliable and wrap each sushi roll with the rice paper to create a dragon-scale effect.

Step 13

With a sharp knife, cut each roll into 8 pieces and drizzle the soy-free sauce over the top.

Step 14

Serve immediately and enjoy your Soy-Free Dragon Roll!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1119.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1174.3

Total Fat 40.1g	0%
Saturated Fat 9.1g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.8g
Cholesterol 158.8mg	0%
Sodium 2436.9mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 172.0g	0%
Dietary Fiber 12.5g	0%
Total Sugars 62.7g
Protein 41.9g	0%

Vitamin D 453.6IU	0%
Calcium 140.6mg	0%
Iron 6.7mg	0%
Potassium 1578.4mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 29.7%

Protein: 13.8%

Carbs: 56.6%