The Mango California Roll from Pei Wei features fresh mango slices, creamy avocado, and succulent imitation crab wrapped in seasoned sushi rice and crisp seaweed, offering a refreshing blend of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors with a vibrant, colorful presentation.
Equipments
- Bamboo sushi rolling mat (makisu)
- Sharp chef’s knife or sushi knife
- Rice cooker
- Mixing bowl
- Plastic wrap
- Cutting board
- Small bowl for water
- Spoon or rice paddle
- Measuring cup
- Serving plate
Ingredients
- 1 cup sushi rice
- 1 1/4 cups water
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 4 sheets nori (seaweed)
- 4 oz imitation crab sticks (kanikama)
- 1 ripe mango
- 1 ripe avocado
- Soy sauce (for serving)
- Pickled ginger (for serving)
- Wasabi (for serving)
Fresh mango and ripe avocado are essential for achieving the authentic texture and flavor in the Mango California Roll, so make sure both are perfectly ripe but firm to avoid mushiness. Use quality imitation crab sticks to replicate the succulent taste found in Pei Wei's version. Sushi rice should be properly rinsed and cooked with precise water measurements for the ideal sticky yet fluffy consistency. Seasoned rice with the right balance of rice vinegar, sugar, and salt helps create the signature tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of the mango. Your Mango California Roll copycat from Pei Wei will stand out when these ingredient details are carefully followed.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Rinse sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- Cook the rinsed rice with 1 1/4 cups water in a rice cooker.
- In a small bowl, mix rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until dissolved.
- Transfer cooked rice to a mixing bowl; gently fold in vinegar mixture.
- Let seasoned rice cool to room temperature.
- Peel and slice mango into thin strips.
- Cut avocado in half, remove pit, peel, and slice into thin strips.
- Slice imitation crab sticks into desired lengths.
- Lay a sheet of plastic wrap over the bamboo sushi mat.
- Place one sheet of nori, shiny side down, on the plastic-covered mat.
- Wet fingers with water; spread an even layer of rice over nori, leaving 1 inch at the top edge.
- Arrange mango, avocado, and imitation crab in a line across the center of the rice.
- Lift edge of mat and roll tightly away from you, pressing gently to shape.
- Use a little water to seal the top edge of the nori.
- Slice the roll into 6–8 pieces with a sharp, wet knife.
- Arrange pieces on a serving plate.
- Serve with soy sauce, pickled ginger, and wasabi.
Substitution
The Mango California Roll from Pei Wei copycat menu combines fresh mango, creamy avocado, and imitation crab wrapped in seasoned sushi rice and seaweed for a sweet and savory flavor burst. If fresh mango is unavailable, ripe papaya or peach make excellent substitutes to maintain the roll's fruity sweetness. When using fresh mango, ensure it is firm but ripe to avoid overly soft slices that complicate rolling. You can use a regular non-stick pan or pot for cooking sushi rice if a rice cooker isn't available, but monitor water ratios closely to achieve the right texture. Your bamboo sushi rolling mat should be wrapped in plastic wrap before rolling to prevent rice from sticking and to make cleanup easier.
Tips
When preparing sushi rice, be sure to rinse it thoroughly until the water is clear to remove excess starch for the perfect sticky but not mushy texture. Allow your seasoned rice to cool completely to room temperature before assembling the roll, as warm rice can make the nori soggy and harder to roll. When rolling, wet your fingers with water to prevent the rice from sticking and ensure an even, thin layer covers the nori without overloading it. To get clean, precise slices of your finished roll, use a very sharp knife dipped in water before each cut to avoid squashing or tearing the roll.
Nutritions
The Mango California Roll provides a balanced source of carbohydrates from sushi rice, healthy fats from avocado, and lean protein from imitation crab. Mango adds natural sweetness along with vitamin C and dietary fiber, supporting immune health and digestion. Seaweed contributes essential iodine and other trace minerals important for thyroid function. Your meal also benefits from low calories, making it a nutritious and satisfying sushi option.
Storage
Store your Mango California Roll in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent the seaweed from becoming soggy. Consume within 24 hours for optimal taste and texture, as the avocado and mango may brown and lose their vibrancy over time. Avoid freezing, since the rice and fresh ingredients will lose their quality and become waterlogged upon thawing.
Variation or Alternatives
Swap imitation crab with cooked shrimp or fresh tuna chunks for a seafood variation that enhances protein richness. Incorporate thin strips of cucumber or bell pepper to add a crunchy texture contrasting with the soft mango and avocado. Use brown sushi rice or cauliflower rice as a healthier alternative to traditional sushi rice, lowering carbohydrates while maintaining fullness. Your rolling technique can be improved by chilling the bamboo mat for tighter, more compact rolls preventing rice from sticking.
Allergies
Your Mango California Roll contains imitation crab sticks, which may trigger shellfish allergies in sensitive individuals. Soy sauce, commonly made from soybeans and wheat, can also cause allergic reactions or gluten intolerance issues. People with mango or avocado allergies should avoid this dish to prevent potential allergic responses.
Why this recipe?
Mango California Roll from Pei Wei restaurant combines fresh, sweet mango with creamy avocado and savory crab, creating a perfectly balanced flavor profile that appeals to a wide range of sushi lovers. The roll's vibrant colors enhance its visual appeal, making it not only tasty but Instagram-worthy. People appreciate its unique twist on the classic California roll, incorporating tropical fruit for a refreshing and memorable taste experience. You'll find that making a copycat version allows you to enjoy this gourmet fusion at home, saving money while customizing ingredients to suit your preferences.