Recipe: Sushi Rolls with Sliced Nuts

For the sushi rice:

• 2 cups sushi rice
• 2 1/2 cups water
• 1/3 cup rice vinegar
• 3 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the filling:

• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1 cucumber, julienned
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds or other nuts (like cashews or peanuts)
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, sliced into strips (optional)
• 1/2 pound fresh sushi-grade fish (like tuna or salmon), sliced thinly (optional)

For assembling the sushi rolls:

• 4-5 sheets of nori (seaweed)
• Soy sauce, for serving
• Pickled ginger, for serving
• Wasabi, for serving

1. Prepare the sushi rice:
   
   1. Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
   2. Combine the rice and water in a rice cooker and cook according to the manufacturer's instructions. Alternatively, you can cook the rice on the stovetop: bring the rice and water to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes or until the water is absorbed.
   3. While the rice is cooking, mix the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt in a small saucepan. Heat over low heat, stirring until the sugar and salt dissolve. Do not boil.
   4. Once the rice is cooked, transfer it to a large bowl and gently fold in the vinegar mixture. Let the rice cool to room temperature.
2. Prepare the filling:
   
   1. Slice the avocado, cucumber, carrot, and optional ingredients (cream cheese, fish) into thin strips.
   2. Toast the sliced nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until they are fragrant and slightly golden. Let them cool.
3. Assemble the sushi rolls:
   
   1. Place a bamboo sushi mat on a clean surface and cover it with plastic wrap to prevent sticking.
   2. Place a sheet of nori, shiny side down, on the bamboo mat.
   3. Wet your hands with water to prevent sticking, then take a handful of sushi rice and spread it evenly over the nori, leaving a 1-inch border at the top edge.
   4. Arrange a line of avocado, cucumber, carrot, sliced nuts, and any other desired fillings (cream cheese, fish) horizontally across the center of the rice.
   5. Lift the bamboo mat from the edge closest to you and begin rolling the sushi tightly, applying gentle pressure. Roll until the top edge of the nori seals the roll. You can use a little water to help seal the edge if needed.
   6. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.
4. Slice and serve:
   
   1. Use a sharp knife to slice the sushi roll into bite-sized pieces. Clean the knife with a damp cloth between cuts to keep the slices clean.
   2. Arrange the sushi pieces on a serving platter.
   3. Serve with soy sauce, pickled ginger, and wasabi.

Enjoy your homemade Sushi Rolls with Sliced Nuts!