Crispy Nori Hand Rolls with Cucumber, Avocado & Sesame

Instructions

1. Cook sushi rice according to package directions and let cool to room temperature.
2. While rice cools, prepare the seasoning: mix rice vinegar, sugar, and salt together in a small bowl until dissolved.
3. Once rice has cooled, gently fold in the vinegar mixture until well combined. Set aside.
4. Prepare all vegetables: julienne cucumber and carrot into thin matchstick strips, slice avocado thinly, and slice jalapeño into thin rings.
5. Toast sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant, then transfer to a small bowl.
6. Fill a small bowl with water and add a pinch of salt - this will be used to moisten your hands while rolling.
7. Take a halved nori sheet (shiny side down) and place on a flat surface or in your palm.
8. Wet your fingers with the salt water and spread a thin layer of seasoned sushi rice (about 1.5 tbsp) onto the nori, leaving a small border at the top.
9. Sprinkle a small amount of toasted sesame seeds on the rice.
10. Arrange filling ingredients in a line: cucumber strip, avocado slice, carrot strip, and jalapeño slice.
11. Roll the nori tightly from the bottom, sealing the edge with a wet finger. The hand roll should form a cone shape.
12. Gently press to ensure the roll holds its shape.
13. Repeat with remaining nori and fillings.
14. Serve immediately on a white plate, garnished with additional sesame seeds if desired. Can be accompanied with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger on the side.