【Reading】あぼかどろーる

【English Name】Avocado roll

An avocado roll is a simple maki roll in which vinegared rice and sliced avocado are wrapped in nori. Because it uses no seafood at all, it is widely accepted by vegetarians and vegans, and is especially well recognized in overseas markets.

The introduction of avocado to sushi is said to have spread in Los Angeles during the 1960s and 70s. Japanese sushi chefs of the time struggled to procure toro (the fatty part of tuna). They chose avocado, which was abundantly cultivated in California, as a substitute ingredient, and this became the starting point. From this innovation, two standard styles became established: the simple avocado roll wrapping only avocado, and the California roll combining crab and cucumber.

The creamy texture and gentle flavor of avocado pair excellently with vinegared rice and blend naturally with soy sauce and wasabi. While it holds a standard place on overseas sushi menus, in Japan it was not a traditional ingredient. However, from the 2000s onward it became established mainly through conveyor-belt (kaiten) sushi chains, and it is now a familiar presence.

Nutritionally, the monounsaturated fatty acids and vitamins K, E, and B contained in avocado are noteworthy. One serving (about six pieces) is estimated at roughly 150–200 kcal.