Sushi
Philadelphia Roll
A popular Western-style sushi roll, the Philadelphia Roll features the rich combination of smoked salmon, cream cheese, and cucumber.
Watch it madeThe Sushi Man · 16:55
Ingredients
- Smoked Salmon150g
- Cream Cheese100g
- Sushi Rice2 cups
- Nori Sheets3 sheets
- Cucumber1 small
Method
- Prepare the sushi rice with vinegar seasoning and let it cool.
- Cut the smoked salmon and cream cheese into long strips. Slice the cucumber into thin matchsticks.
- Place a sheet of nori on the bamboo mat. Spread a layer of rice over the nori.
- Arrange the smoked salmon, cream cheese, and cucumber in a horizontal line across the rice.
- Roll the sushi firmly using the mat. The nori can be on the outside or inside depending on preference.
- Slice into bite-sized pieces and serve.
Common questions
Can I substitute the smoked salmon or cream cheese in a Philadelphia roll?
Yes. Use cold-smoked salmon, hot-smoked salmon flaked lightly, or even cooked crab if needed. For cream cheese, mascarpone or a mild goat cheese works, but keep the filling soft, cool, and not overly wet.
How long does it take to make Philadelphia rolls from start to finish?
Plan for about 45 to 60 minutes total. Sushi rice takes the longest, including cooking and cooling. Rolling itself is quick once your ingredients are prepped and cut into even strips.
What are the most common mistakes when making a Philadelphia roll?
Using warm rice, overfilling the roll, or slicing with a dull, wet knife are the biggest issues. Also avoid cucumber strips that are too thick, since they make rolling harder and cause the roll to split.
How should I store Philadelphia rolls, and how long do they keep?
Store tightly wrapped in the refrigerator and eat within 24 hours for best texture and safety. The rice dries out quickly, and the cream cheese and salmon are best kept very cold until serving.
What’s the best way to serve Philadelphia rolls?
Serve chilled or just slightly cool, sliced into even bite-sized pieces. Pair with soy sauce, pickled ginger, and wasabi if you like. For cleaner presentation, wipe the knife between cuts and serve immediately after slicing.