Spicy halibut jalapeño sushi roll topped with sliced jalapeños and served with soy sauce

Halibut keeps things clean and simple—but that also makes it the perfect base for a little heat.

This spicy halibut jalapeño roll leans into contrast. Fresh halibut stays light and delicate, while thin slices of jalapeño bring just enough warmth to wake everything up. Creamy avocado smooths it out, and a light crunch with a drizzle of spicy sauce pulls it all together.

It’s balanced, familiar, and one of those rolls that’s easy to come back to again and again.

  • Prep Time:

    25 minutes

  • Cook Time:

    5 minutes (optional rice prep)

  • Total Time:

    30 minutes

  • Servings:

    2 rolls (about 12–16 pieces)

  • Ingredients:

    For the roll:

    • 1 cup sushi rice, cooked and seasoned
    • 2 sheets nori
    • 6–8 oz sushi-grade halibut, sliced
    • 1/2 avocado, sliced
    • 2–3 tbsp cream cheese (optional, light layer)

    Toppings:

    • 1–2 jalapeños, thinly sliced
    • 2–3 tbsp tempura flakes

    Finish:

    • Spicy mayo (see below)
    • Optional: sweet chili drizzle or hot honey


    Spicy Mayo

    • 2 tbsp mayonnaise
    • 1–2 tsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
    • 1 tsp lime juice

    (Whisk until smooth.)

  • Instructions:

    1. Prepare the rice: Cook sushi rice and season with rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Let cool to room temperature.
    2. Make the spicy mayo: While the rice cools, whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha, and lime juice.
    3. Lay the foundation: Place nori on a bamboo mat and spread an even layer of rice, leaving a small edge.
    4. Flip (optional): Turn rice side down for an inside-out roll.
    5. Build the center: Add halibut, avocado, and a light layer of cream cheese.
    6. Roll it tight: Roll firmly using the mat, shaping evenly.
    7. Top and finish
      Add thin jalapeño slices
      Sprinkle tempura flakes
      Drizzle lightly with spicy mayo (and optional sweet chili or hot honey)
    8. Slice and serve: Cut with a sharp, wet knife and serve immediately.


    Serving Tip
    Slice jalapeños as thin as possible to keep the heat balanced and let the halibut stay the focus.

If you’re new to working with raw seafood, our sushi-grade guide walks through what’s safe, what to look for, and how to get started with confidence.

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