Vegan Sushi Sandwiches (Onigirazu)

I often make a few vegan sushi sandwiches at the beginning of the week and they make a perfect healthy lunch that’s quick to prepare.

If you’re into meal prepping be sure to check out my: 

• Easy Vegan Chili Recipe
• BBQ Vegan Jackfruit Tacos 
• Easy Vegan Mushroom Meatballs

It took me a couple of tries to master the folding of our sushi sandwiches ourselves.

What are Vegan Sushi Sandwiches?

Vegan Sushi Sandwiches (Onigirazu) also known as sushi burgers are a great way to enjoy the taste of sushi. They are a convenient way to eat healthily and meal prepping them for the days ahead is quick and easy. Also, they are a delicious way to enjoy all the flavors of sushi without needing special skills.

Ingredients

• 4 sheets nori
• 3 cups cooked sushi rice, cooled to room temperature
• 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 block tofu
• 1 medium carrot
• 1 small cucumber
• 1 red pepper
• Sliced green onion

For Garnishing:

• Black sesame seeds
• Sriracha mayo

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Rice cooker or pot for cooking rice
• Mixing bowl for the rice
• Sharp knife for slicing veggies and tofu
• Cutting board
• Small spoon or spatula for spreading rice
• A serving plate for the sushi sandwiches

How to Make Vegan Sushi Sandwiches?

Step 1:

Cook your sushi rice according to the package instructions and allow it to cool to room temperature once done. Once it has cooled down, add the rice vinegar and mix thoroughly.

Step 2:

Cut the tofu into blocks that are not too thick and are the right shape to layer on top of the sushi rice. Cut the carrot, cucumber, and red pepper into thin strips.

Step 3:

Now layer the tofu, carrot, cucumber, and red pepper on top of the sushi rice. Try to keep it as stable as possible and layer everything carefully to make the folding easier. Add sliced green onion and top it off with another layer of sushi rice.

Step 4:

Like we have shown in the video, place the nori in a diamond shape with the tip pointing toward you. Add roughly 1/3 of a cup of cooked rice and shape it into a square. Make sure you align the rice to the nori like we have shown in the video otherwise the sushi sandwich won’t fold properly.

Step 5:

Now, fold the corners of the nori up and over the top of the layered sushi ingredients while folding in the sides until the corners close and touch each other on the top. Turn the sushi sandwich over and leave to sit for 5 minutes to set.

Step 6:

Once set, cut the sandwich from top to bottom, to show off the fillings properly. Garnish with sesame seeds, and sriracha mayo, and serve with soy sauce.

Tips You Need!

• You can cover the sushi sandwiches in clingfilm or Saran wrap and store them in the fridge for 3 – 4 days.
• Make sure your sushi rice is properly cooked and cooled to room temperature before assembling the sandwiches.
• When layering the vegetables and tofu, try to keep everything even and balanced.

What to Enjoy with Vegan Sushi Sandwiches?

I love serving my Vegan Sushi Sandwiches with a warm bowl of miso soup for a cozy meal or enjoying some lightly salted edamame for a protein one. Also, a refreshing seaweed salad adds crunch and umami which can be a good option for some.

FAQ

Can I use regular rice instead of sushi rice?

Sushi rice is recommended because it’s sticky and holds the ingredients together well.

Can I substitute the tofu with another protein?

Yes! You can use any plant-based protein like tempeh or even marinated mushrooms.

What’s the best way to slice the veggies?

Thin strips are best for layering in the sushi sandwich.

Is there a way to make this gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure your nori and soy sauce are certified gluten-free.

Can I add other vegetables to the sandwich?

Feel free to add any veggies you like.

Can I freeze the sushi sandwiches?

No, It’s not recommended.