Here’s a simple and delicious vegan sushi recipe that you can make at home. This recipe features a variety of fresh vegetables and crispy tofu, making it both nutritious and satisfying.

Ingredients

For the Sushi Rice

• 2 cups sushi rice (medium or short-grain)
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons sugar (or maple syrup)
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Fillings

• 1 avocado, sliced into strips
• 1 cucumber, sliced into matchsticks
• 2 carrots, sliced into matchsticks
• 7 oz firm tofu, pressed and cut into strips
• Optional: sesame seeds for sprinkling

For Serving

• Soy sauce or tamari
• Pickled ginger
• Wasabi (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Sushi Rice

1. Cook the Rice: Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Combine the rice with 3 cups of water in a pot, soak for 15 minutes, then bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until all water is absorbed. Let it sit covered for an additional 10 minutes.
2. Season the Rice: In a small bowl, mix together the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Heat this mixture until the sugar dissolves. Once the rice is cooked, transfer it to a large bowl and gently fold in the vinegar mixture. Allow it to cool.

Prepare the Fillings

3. Cook the Tofu: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat with a bit of oil. Add the tofu strips and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 10-12 minutes. Season with soy sauce while cooking.
4. Prepare Vegetables: Slice your avocado, cucumber, and carrots into thin strips.

Assemble the Sushi Rolls

5. Lay Out Nori: Place a sheet of nori shiny side down on a bamboo sushi mat or clean surface.
6. Add Rice: With wet hands, spread about 3/4 cup of sushi rice evenly over the nori, leaving about an inch of space at the top.
7. Add Fillings: Lay a few strips of tofu, avocado, cucumber, and carrot horizontally across the rice.
8. Roll It Up: Starting from the bottom edge, use the mat to lift and roll the nori over the fillings tightly. Continue rolling until you reach the bare edge of nori; wet this edge with water to seal.
9. Cut Rolls: Use a sharp knife dipped in water to cut the roll into bite-sized pieces.

Serve

10. Serve your vegan sushi with soy sauce or tamari for dipping, along with pickled ginger and wasabi if desired.

Enjoy your homemade vegan sushi! It’s perfect for a healthy meal or snack and can be customized with your favorite ingredients

Here are some creative ideas and tips for making vegan sushi, including fillings, crispy tofu preparation, sushi rice cooking methods, and dipping sauces.

Creative Vegan Sushi Fillings

1. Avocado: Creamy and rich, it adds a smooth texture.
2. Cucumber: Fresh and crunchy, perfect for adding a refreshing bite.
3. Carrots: Julienned or spiralized for a sweet crunch.
4. Bell Peppers: Thinly sliced for added color and sweetness.
5. Mango: Offers a tropical sweetness that pairs well with savory flavors.
6. Pickled Vegetables: Such as pickled radish or onions for a tangy kick.
7. Tofu: Marinated or plain, it adds protein and absorbs flavors well.
8. Tempeh: A nutty flavor that works great when grilled or baked.
9. Purple Cabbage: Adds color and crunch.
10. Sprouts: Such as alfalfa or bean sprouts for extra texture.

How to Make Crispy Tofu for Sushi

1. Press the Tofu: Drain the tofu and place it between two plates or use a tofu press to remove excess moisture for about 30 minutes.
2. Cut the Tofu: Slice the pressed tofu into strips or cubes, depending on your preference.
3. Cook the Tofu:

• Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat with a little oil (like avocado or canola oil).
• Add the tofu pieces and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 4-5 minutes per side.
• Optionally, add soy sauce during cooking for flavor.

Best Way to Cook Sushi Rice

1. Rinse the Rice: Rinse 2 cups of sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
2. Cooking Methods:

• Stovetop: Combine rinsed rice with 2 cups of water in a pot, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes until water is absorbed. Let it sit covered for an additional 10 minutes.
• Instant Pot: Use the rice setting on low pressure for 12 minutes and allow natural pressure release.

1. Seasoning: Mix 1/4 cup rice vinegar, 2 tablespoons sugar, and 1 teaspoon salt in a small bowl until dissolved. Once rice is cooked, gently fold this mixture into the rice while it’s still warm and allow it to cool.

Can I Use Brown Rice for Vegan Sushi?

Yes, you can use brown rice for vegan sushi; however, it will have a different texture and flavor compared to traditional sushi rice. Brown rice requires longer cooking time (about 40-50 minutes) and may not be as sticky as white sushi rice, so consider adding more water during cooking to achieve the desired consistency.

Good Dipping Sauces for Vegan Sushi

1. Soy Sauce or Tamari: Classic dipping sauce that complements sushi well.
2. Sriracha Mayo: Mix vegan mayo with sriracha for a spicy kick.
3. Wasabi Soy Sauce: Add wasabi to soy sauce for an extra punch of heat.
4. Peanut Sauce: A creamy option that adds richness and flavor.
5. Ginger Soy Dressing: A blend of soy sauce with ginger and sesame oil for a zesty dip.

These ideas will help you create delicious vegan sushi tailored to your taste!