Sushi doesn’t have to include fish to be flavorful and satisfying. This vegan sushi recipe combines fresh, plant-based ingredients with perfectly seasoned rice to create a delicious and nutritious meal. It’s a fantastic option for anyone looking to enjoy sushi in a healthier, cruelty-free way. Plus, it’s customizable and easy to make at home!

This recipe includes a detailed calorie breakdown of each ingredient, so you can keep track of your intake while enjoying a delectable, guilt-free meal.


Calorie Breakdown of Ingredients

For the Sushi Rice (Per Serving of 4 Rolls)

  • Sushi Rice (1 cup uncooked = ~3 cups cooked):
    • Calories: 687 kcal (229 kcal per cup cooked)
    • Carbs: 148g
    • Protein: 13g
    • Fat: 1g
  • Rice Vinegar (¼ cup):
    • Calories: 15 kcal
    • Carbs: 0.1g
    • Protein: 0g
    • Fat: 0g
  • Sugar (2 tbsp):
    • Calories: 96 kcal
    • Carbs: 24g
    • Protein: 0g
    • Fat: 0g
  • Salt (1 tsp): Negligible calories.

Total for Sushi Rice: ~798 kcal
Per Roll (using ¼ of the rice): ~200 kcal


For the Fillings (Per Roll)

  • Avocado (½ fruit, ~75g):
    • Calories: 120 kcal
    • Carbs: 6g
    • Protein: 1g
    • Fat: 11g
  • Cucumber (¼ medium cucumber, ~50g):
    • Calories: 8 kcal
    • Carbs: 1.9g
    • Protein: 0.3g
    • Fat: 0g
  • Carrot (¼ medium carrot, ~25g):
    • Calories: 10 kcal
    • Carbs: 2.3g
    • Protein: 0.2g
    • Fat: 0g
  • Pickled Radish (2 tbsp, ~30g):
    • Calories: 6 kcal
    • Carbs: 1.5g
    • Protein: 0.1g
    • Fat: 0g
  • Smoked Tofu (3 slices, ~50g):
    • Calories: 120 kcal
    • Carbs: 2.2g
    • Protein: 10g
    • Fat: 8g

Total for Fillings Per Roll: ~264 kcal


Optional Toppings (Per Roll)

  • Sesame Seeds (1 tsp):
    • Calories: 17 kcal
    • Carbs: 0.7g
    • Protein: 0.6g
    • Fat: 1.6g
  • Vegan Mayo (1 tsp):
    • Calories: 30 kcal
    • Carbs: 0.2g
    • Protein: 0g
    • Fat: 3.3g
  • Sriracha Sauce (1 tsp):
    • Calories: 5 kcal
    • Carbs: 1g
    • Protein: 0g
    • Fat: 0g

Calorie Summary for 1 Roll

  1. Rice (1 portion): 200 kcal
  2. Fillings (Average): 264 kcal
  3. Toppings (Optional): ~52 kcal (using all three toppings in moderation)

Grand Total Per Roll: ~516 kcal (with toppings)
Without Toppings: ~464 kcal

Note: Depending on your ingredients and portions, the calories may vary slightly.


vegan sushi

Step-by-Step Vegan Sushi Instructions

1. Preparing the Sushi Rice

  1. Rinse 1 cup of sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This step is essential for removing excess starch.
  2. Combine rice with 2 ½ cups of water in a rice cooker or pot. Cook until tender, following the appliance’s instructions.
  3. In a small saucepan, heat ¼ cup rice vinegar, 2 tablespoons sugar, and 1 teaspoon salt until dissolved.
  4. Once the rice is cooked, gently fold the vinegar mixture into the rice. Spread the rice on a baking sheet to cool completely.

2. Preparing the Fillings

While the rice cools, prepare the fillings:

  • Thinly slice avocado, cucumber, carrot, pickled radish, and smoked tofu.
  • Arrange them in separate bowls for easy access during assembly.

3. Assembling the Sushi Rolls

  1. Set Up Your Station: Place a bamboo mat on a clean surface. Cover it with plastic wrap to prevent sticking.
  2. Lay the Nori: Place a sheet of roasted nori, shiny side down, on the mat.
  3. Spread the Rice: Wet your hands to prevent sticking, then spread a thin layer of sushi rice across the nori, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
  4. Add Fillings: Arrange avocado, cucumber, carrot, pickled radish, and tofu horizontally in the center.
  5. Roll It Up: Using the bamboo mat, roll the sushi tightly. Seal the edge of the nori with a dab of water.
  6. Slice: Using a sharp, wet knife, slice the roll into 6–8 even pieces.

4. Garnishing and Serving

  • Sprinkle sesame seeds over each piece.
  • Drizzle with vegan mayo and sriracha sauce for added flavor.
  • Serve with soy sauce, pickled ginger, and wasabi on the side.

FAQs About Vegan Sushi

Q: Can I use brown rice instead of sushi rice?
A: Yes, but the texture will be different. Brown rice doesn’t have the same sticky consistency, so it may be harder to roll.

Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes! Use tamari instead of soy sauce, and ensure all other ingredients are labeled gluten-free.

Q: How many calories are in 4 rolls?
A: For 4 rolls with toppings, the total is approximately 2,064 kcal.


Nutritional Information Per Serving (1 Roll)

  • Calories: 464–516 kcal
  • Carbs: 56–60g
  • Protein: 11–12g
  • Fat: 12–14g
  • Fiber: 4–5g

Final Thoughts

With this recipe, you can enjoy restaurant-quality vegan sushi at home. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients, making it a wholesome meal option. The detailed calorie breakdown ensures you can keep track of your dietary goals while indulging in this plant-based delight. So, grab your bamboo mat and start rolling!

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