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There’s a certain joy that comes from combining the best of two culinary worlds, and that’s exactly what happens in the delightful Philadelphia Roll. Imagine the beloved flavors of a classic bagel and lox transformed into sushi—a harmonious fusion that’s both satisfying and innovative. The moment you roll out your bamboo mat, you’ll find yourself swept into a world of textures: the creamy richness of cream cheese meeting the smoky allure of salmon, all brightened by crunchy cucumber and zesty pickled onions.

Whether you’re sharing it at a casual dinner or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this sushi roll is not just a dish; it’s an experience that invites creativity. Each slice reveals a journey of taste, enhanced by the playful crunch of everything bagel seasoning, making it approachable for even the most novice of cooks. Trust me, once you discover how simple and rewarding this recipe is, you’ll want to make it over and over again. So, grab your ingredients, and let’s dive into making this indulgent yet effortless Philadelphia Roll together!

Why is the Philadelphia Roll so beloved?

Fusion of Flavors: This sushi roll harmoniously blends classic bagel and lox flavors, creating a unique taste experience that’s hard to beat.
Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, even novice cooks can whip this up quickly, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: The combination of smoked salmon, cream cheese, and everything bagel seasoning makes it a hit at gatherings.
Versatile Options: Feel free to experiment! Try swapping in different fillings or making a vegetarian version to suit any palate.
Texture Delight: Each bite offers a delightful crunch from the cucumber and a velvety smoothness from the cream cheese. Dive into the joy of homemade sushi with this creative twist!

Philadelphia Roll Ingredients

For the Pickled Onions

Small Red Onion – Offers a sharp flavor that mellows beautifully during pickling; consider using green onions for a milder option.
Unseasoned Rice Vinegar – Adds acidity to balance the flavors; apple cider vinegar can work as a tasty substitute.

For the Sushi Rice

Sushi Rice – This sticky rice forms the roll’s base, providing the perfect texture; no substitutions are recommended.
Water – Essential for cooking the sushi rice and rinsing.
Kombu (optional) – Enhances the umami flavor of the rice; feel free to omit if you can’t find it.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the rice mix; honey or agave syrup serves as a natural alternative.
Kosher Salt – Balances the sweetness; sea salt is an excellent alternative.

For the Roll

Nori Sheets – The outer layer necessary for the roll’s structure; there’s no substitute for an authentic taste.
Everything Bagel Seasoning – Adds a savory crunch; if unavailable, sesame seeds can be a good alternative.
Smoked Salmon – Provides a rich flavor reminiscent of classic bagel and lox; cooked shrimp or crab can serve as delicious substitutes.
Cold Cream Cheese – Adds a creamy richness; you can use mascarpone for a similar texture.
Persian Cucumber – Contributes a fresh crunch with minimal seeds; English cucumber or zucchini can be substituted.

For Serving

Soy Sauce – Perfect for dipping.
Wasabi – Adds a spicy kick, perfect for adventurous eaters.
Pickled Ginger – Complements sushi’s flavors beautifully.

Dive into making your Philadelphia Roll, and don’t forget that the right ingredients can elevate your sushi-making experience!

How to Make Philadelphia Roll

Pickle the Onions: Begin by mixing the sliced red onion with rice vinegar in a small bowl. Allow it to sit for about 15-20 minutes while you prepare the sushi rice; this mellows the onion’s sharpness.
Rinse and Cook Sushi Rice: Thoroughly rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Cook it according to the package instructions using water, adding kombu if you choose, for enhanced umami flavor.
Season the Rice: Once the rice is cooked, transfer it to a large bowl. Gently stir in the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until fully combined. Let the mixture cool to room temperature, so it’s easier to handle.
Assemble the Roll: Line a bamboo mat with plastic wrap and place a nori sheet on top. Spread a thin layer of seasoned rice over the nori, leaving about an inch at the top. Sprinkle half of the everything bagel seasoning, followed by a layer of smoked salmon, cream cheese strips, pickled onions, and cucumber slices.
Roll it Up: Carefully roll the sushi away from you, applying gentle pressure to keep it tight but not too tight to prevent the ingredients from spilling out. Once rolled, use a sharp knife to slice the log into 6-8 pieces, wiping the knife with a wet cloth between cuts for clean slices.

Optional: Serve with soy sauce and a sprinkle of extra everything bagel seasoning on top for added flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Philadelphia Roll

Fridge: Store leftover Philadelphia Roll in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days to maintain freshness.

Freezer: To freeze, wrap the roll tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then store in the freezer for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before eating.

Reheating: If you prefer warm sushi, reheat sliced rolls in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, but note that fresh is best!

Expert Tips for the Philadelphia Roll

Choosing the Right Rice: Sushi rice should be short or medium grain for optimal stickiness. This ensures your Philadelphia Roll holds together.
Perfectly Pickle Onions: Allow pickled onions to soak longer than 20 minutes for a mellower flavor. It enhances the overall balance in your roll.
Moisture Matters: Keep your hands wet while handling sushi rice to prevent it from sticking to your fingers when assembling the Philadelphia Roll.
Avoid Overfilling: Filling your roll too much can lead to messy slices. Maintain a balance of ingredients for easier handling and cutting.
Sharp Knife Trick: Always use a sharp, wet knife when slicing to prevent tearing and ensure clean cuts. This preserves the beautiful presentation of your Philadelphia Roll.
Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to mix up the ingredients! Try adding avocado or spicy tuna for a unique twist on the traditional recipe.

What to Serve with Philadelphia Roll?

Elevate your sushi night with delectable sides that complement each bite of your fresh Philadelphia Roll.

Miso Soup: This warm, savory broth introduces umami flavors that balance the roll’s creaminess, creating a harmonious dining experience.
Edamame: Lightly salted edamame offers a delightful crunch and protein boost, making it a wholesome companion to your sushi.
Seaweed Salad: Its tangy flavor and chewy texture provide a refreshing contrast that enhances the overall meal without overpowering it.
Sushi Ginger: This vibrant pink pickled ginger cleanses the palate between bites, stimulating your taste buds for the next flavorful experience.
Tempura Vegetables: Crispy, lightly battered veggies bring an enjoyable crunch and warmth, perfectly complementing the cold, creamy sushi rolls.
Cucumber Salad: A light, tangy cucumber salad adds freshness to your plate, echoing the cucumber in the roll while ensuring each bite remains refreshing.
Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay lends fruity notes that mesh beautifully with the smoked salmon, making each bite feel sophisticated.
Green Tea: A warm serving of green tea provides a soothing finish to balance rich flavors, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Philadelphia Roll Variations

Feel free to explore these exciting twists on your Philadelphia Roll and elevate your sushi experience!

Sashimi-Style: Swap smoked salmon for raw sashimi-grade fish for an authentic taste of Japanese sushi. The freshness enhances your roll immensely.
Vegetarian Delight: Replace fish with marinated tofu, and add avocado or carrots for a vibrant and fulfilling veggie version. Each bite bursts with flavor and nutrition.
Spicy Kick: Drizzle a touch of sriracha on the inside before rolling for an extra layer of heat. This adds a delightful zing that spice lovers will adore.
Creamy Swap: Use whipped feta instead of cream cheese for a tangy twist that harmonizes beautifully with the other flavors. It will surprise your taste buds in the best way!
Tropical Fusion: Mix in fresh mango slices with your cucumber for a sweet and savory surf-and-turf dimension. This tropical twist introduces a refreshing brightness.
Crunchy Add-in: Add thinly sliced radishes inside for an unexpected crunch that will elevate the texture profile significantly. Crunchy and fresh, it pairs beautifully with other ingredients.
Smoky Flavor: Use smoked trout instead of salmon for a different fish experience that’s equally delicious. The smokiness will still resonate wonderfully with your palate.
Nutty Topping: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds instead of everything bagel seasoning for a subtle nuttiness and added texture. It will introduce a lovely complexity to each bite.

Make Ahead Options

These Philadelphia Rolls are a fantastic choice for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the pickled onions and sushi rice up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The rice should be cooled to room temperature before refrigerating to maintain its texture. When you’re ready to assemble, lay a nori sheet on a bamboo mat, spread the cooled rice, and layer in the rest of your ingredients. Rolling and slicing can be done just before serving to ensure each bite is as fresh and delicious as possible. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have flavorful Philadelphia Rolls ready to enjoy with minimal hassle!

Philadelphia Roll Recipe FAQs

What type of cucumber should I use for the Philadelphia Roll?
I recommend using a Persian cucumber for its refreshing crunch and minimal seeds. If unavailable, an English cucumber or zucchini can serve as great substitutes!

How do I know if my smoked salmon is fresh enough to use?
Absolutely! Look for salmon that has a vibrant, translucent color without dark spots all over. It should smell fresh, not fishy, and feel firm to the touch. Always check the expiration date or package date before purchasing.

Can I store leftover Philadelphia Roll in the fridge?
Yes! Place any leftover Philadelphia Roll in an airtight container, and it will stay fresh for up to 2 days in the fridge. Make sure to consume it promptly as sushi is best enjoyed fresh!

How do I freeze the Philadelphia Roll effectively?
To freeze the Philadelphia Roll, start by wrapping the entire roll tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. Then, wrap it again in aluminum foil for extra protection. Store in the freezer for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight before slicing and serving.

Can my pet eat smoked salmon?
It’s best to avoid giving smoked salmon to pets. It contains high levels of sodium, which can be harmful. If you’re looking for pet-friendly treats, try plain, cooked fish instead.

What should I do if the sushi rice isn’t sticky enough?
Very! If your sushi rice isn’t sticky, it might not have enough moisture or the right rice type. Ensure you’re using short or medium-grain sushi rice. If it still isn’t sticky, sprinkle a few drops of water and gently mix the rice before rolling it. Always rinse the rice until the water runs clear for best results!