Name: Philadelphia Roll Sushi
Prep time: 45 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 1 cup sushi rice (cooked and seasoned with rice vinegar, sugar, and salt); 4 nori sheets (seaweed); 4 oz smoked salmon, thinly sliced; 2 oz cream cheese, cut into strips; 1 cucumber, julienned; Soy sauce, for dipping; Optional: 1 avocado (sliced), sesame seeds, pickled ginger, and wasabi

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Philadelphia Roll is an approachable and satisfying sushi option that combines familiar flavors in a neat, bite-sized package. It’s easy to make at home, requires no raw fish (thanks to the smoked salmon), and provides a great balance of taste and texture—cool, creamy, and savory all in one.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Sushi rice (cooked and seasoned with rice vinegar, sugar, and salt)
Nori sheets (seaweed)
Smoked salmon, thinly sliced
Cream cheese, cut into strips
Cucumber, julienned
Soy sauce, for dipping
Optional: avocado slices, sesame seeds, pickled ginger, and wasabi

directions

Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions, seasoning it with rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Let it cool to room temperature.
Place a bamboo sushi mat on a clean surface and lay a sheet of plastic wrap over it. Place a sheet of nori, shiny side down, on the plastic wrap.
Wet your hands and spread a thin layer of sushi rice over the nori, leaving about 1 inch at the top uncovered.
Arrange smoked salmon, cream cheese, and cucumber (and avocado if using) in a line across the center of the rice.
Carefully lift the bamboo mat and roll it tightly over the filling, pressing gently to form a firm roll. Seal the edge by wetting the exposed nori strip.
Slice the roll into 6–8 pieces with a sharp knife dipped in water.
Serve with soy sauce, pickled ginger, and wasabi on the side.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 2 rolls (about 12–16 pieces) and takes approximately 45 minutes, including rice preparation and assembly.

Variations

Add thinly sliced avocado for extra creaminess.
Use low-fat cream cheese for a lighter version.
Try substituting cucumber with julienned carrots or bell peppers for a twist.
Use a rice paper wrap instead of nori for a unique texture.
Make it spicy by adding a dab of sriracha or spicy mayo inside the roll.

storage/reheating

Sushi is best eaten fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Keep sushi rolls tightly wrapped in plastic to prevent the rice from drying out.
Do not freeze, as the texture of the rice and cream cheese will degrade.
Reheating is not recommended—serve cold or at room temperature.

FAQs

What kind of salmon is used in a Philadelphia Roll?

Smoked salmon is typically used, offering a rich, savory flavor without the need for raw fish.

Can I use raw salmon instead of smoked?

Yes, if you have sushi-grade raw salmon, it can be used for a fresher, milder taste.

Is a Philadelphia Roll gluten-free?

The roll itself can be gluten-free if you use gluten-free soy sauce and check that all ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I make Philadelphia Rolls ahead of time?

Yes, but for best taste and texture, consume within 24 hours of preparation.

What is the best rice for sushi?

Short-grain or medium-grain Japanese rice is best due to its sticky texture.

Do I need a bamboo mat to roll sushi?

A bamboo mat helps with shaping, but you can use a clean kitchen towel wrapped in plastic wrap as a substitute.

Can I freeze Philadelphia Rolls?

Freezing is not recommended as it alters the texture of the rice and cream cheese.

What sides go well with this sushi?

Serve with miso soup, seaweed salad, or edamame for a complete meal.

How do I keep the rolls from falling apart?

Use enough rice to help the roll hold its shape and press firmly while rolling. Make sure the nori is sealed properly.

Are Philadelphia Rolls healthy?

They are relatively healthy, with a balance of protein and fat from salmon and cream cheese—just watch portion sizes and sodium from soy sauce.

Conclusion

The Philadelphia Roll is a delicious and beginner-friendly sushi option that’s easy to make at home. With its creamy, smoky, and refreshing ingredients, it’s sure to become a go-to favorite for sushi nights or casual meals. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet night in, this roll delivers satisfying flavor with a sophisticated touch.