Tropical Dessert Sushi Rolls
Indulge in a delightful twist on traditional sushi with these Tropical Dessert Sushi Rolls. This fun and creative dessert combines sweet coconut-infused rice with a vibrant array of fresh fruits and playful fruit leather wraps, perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying as a unique treat at home. The coconut glaze adds a creamy touch, elevating the flavors while the sesame seeds provide a delightful crunch. With colorful layers of blueberries, mango, pineapple, strawberries, and candied sour cherries, these sushi-inspired desserts are an eye-catching and delicious addition to any dessert table. Perfect for kids and adults alike, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
Medium grain Japanese rice
1 1/2 cups (Rinsed and drained)
Coconut milk
1 (14-ounce) can (None)
Sugar
1/2 cup (None)
Lemon
1 (Zested)
Fruit leather
As needed (Cut into strips (e.g., Fruit by the Foot))
Blueberries
As desired (None)
Candied sour cherry
As desired (None)
Mango
1 (Julienned)
Pineapple
1 (Julienned)
Strawberry
1 (Sliced)
Sesame seeds
1/2 cup (Toasted)
Mint leaf
As desired (Torn for garnish)
Instructions
1
Start by preparing the sushi rice: Rinse the medium-grain Japanese rice under cold water until the water runs clear, removing excess starch. In a medium pot, combine the rinsed rice with 2 cups of water. Cover with a tight-fitting lid and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, stir the rice, recover, and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 15 minutes undisturbed.
2
Remove the pot from heat and fluff the rice gently with a fork. Replace the lid and allow it to sit for an additional 5 minutes to steam. Spread the cooked rice evenly on a baking sheet to cool quickly; set aside.
3
Prepare the coconut glaze: In a small saucepan, combine the coconut milk, sugar, and lemon zest. Heat over medium, stirring occasionally until it comes to a gentle simmer. Allow the mixture to reduce for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring frequently, until it thickens into a syrupy consistency. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4
Assemble nigiri-style sushi: Moisten your hands to prevent sticking. Take small portions of the cooled sushi rice and mold them into 2-inch long logs. Drizzle a small amount of the coconut glaze over each log of rice.
5
Cut strips of fruit leather (or use pre-cut pieces) approximately 1/2 by 2 inches. Wrap these strips around the rice logs to mimic the seaweed covering of traditional nigiri. Top each piece with your choice of fruit, like blueberries and candied sour cherries to resemble salmon roe. Optionally, sprinkle with sesame seeds and garnish with fresh mint leaves before serving.
6
Assemble maki rolls: Lay a sheet of fruit leather flat on a clean surface. Spread an even layer of sushi rice across the fruit leather, about 1/2 inch thick. Drizzle with coconut glaze and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
7
On the end closest to you, arrange a row of julienned fruit like mango, pineapple, strawberries, or cherries. Add torn mint leaves for additional flavor. Carefully roll the fruit leather away from you, keeping the roll tight. Slice into rounds with a sharp knife and arrange them on a serving platter.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Tropical Dessert Sushi Rolls?
They are a sweet twist on traditional sushi made with coconut-infused rice, fresh fruit, and fruit leather wraps.
What type of rice should be used for this recipe?
Medium-grain Japanese rice is recommended for the best texture and stickiness.
How should I prepare the rice before cooking?
Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
What is the cooking time for the sushi rice?
Simmer the rice on low for 15 minutes, then let it steam for an additional 5 minutes.
How do I cool the rice quickly?
Spread the cooked rice evenly on a baking sheet to allow it to cool fast.
What are the ingredients in the coconut glaze?
The glaze consists of a 14-ounce can of coconut milk, 1/2 cup of sugar, and the zest of one lemon.
How long does it take to thicken the coconut glaze?
It takes approximately 20 to 25 minutes of simmering to reach a syrupy consistency.
What serves as the 'seaweed' wrap in this dessert version?
Strips of fruit leather, such as Fruit by the Foot, are used to mimic traditional nori seaweed.
How do I prevent rice from sticking to my hands during assembly?
Moisten your hands with water before molding the rice logs.
What size should the nigiri rice logs be?
The rice should be molded into small logs approximately 2 inches long.
Which fruits are best for the sushi toppings?
Blueberries, mango, pineapple, strawberries, and candied sour cherries are suggested.
How do you recreate the look of salmon roe?
Blueberries and candied sour cherries can be placed on top of the nigiri to resemble fish roe.
How should the mango and pineapple be cut?
They should be julienned into thin matchstick strips for the maki rolls.
How do you assemble the maki-style rolls?
Spread rice on fruit leather, add julienned fruit, roll tightly, and slice into rounds.
How thick should the rice layer be for the maki rolls?
The rice layer should be approximately 1/2 inch thick.
What provides the crunch in this dessert?
Toasted sesame seeds are sprinkled over the rolls to provide a delightful crunch.
What is used for garnish?
Fresh mint leaves are used for both flavor and garnish.
Is this recipe suitable for parties?
Yes, its colorful and unique presentation makes it perfect for dessert tables and guests.
Can I use different types of fruit leather?
Yes, you can use any brand or flavor of fruit leather strips as needed.
What kind of sugar is needed for the glaze?
Standard granulated white sugar is typically used for the 1/2 cup required.
How many ingredients does this recipe require?
The recipe calls for 12 main ingredients.
Should the fruit be fresh or frozen?
Fresh fruit is recommended to maintain the structure and vibrant appearance of the sushi.
What tool is best for slicing the maki rolls?
A sharp knife is essential for making clean cuts through the fruit leather and rice.
Is this dessert kid-friendly?
Yes, it is very popular with kids because of the sweet flavors and playful appearance.
How do you finish the nigiri style?
Drizzle coconut glaze over the rice log and wrap a strip of fruit leather around it.
What role does the lemon play in the recipe?
The lemon zest adds a bright, citrusy note to the creamy coconut glaze.
Where do I put the mint leaves in maki rolls?
Torn mint leaves should be added inside the roll along with the julienned fruit.
Can I customize the fruit selection?
Absolutely, any vibrant fruit that can be sliced or julienned will work well.
How do you present the sushi for serving?
Arrange the sliced rounds and nigiri pieces on a large serving platter and garnish with mint.
What makes the rice 'coconut-infused'?
The rice is seasoned and topped with a homemade coconut, sugar, and lemon glaze.