Vegan tofu katsu sushi sandwich with fresh vegetables and rice in Nori

Vegan Tofu “Katsu” Sushi Sandwiches and Rolls (Onigirazu and Maki)

ByCasey Monroe

Why make this recipe

Vegan Tofu "Katsu" Sushi Sandwiches and Rolls bring together two delicious cuisines: Japanese sushi and classic vegan tofu katsu. This recipe is not only tasty but also healthy, as it uses fresh vegetables, homemade teriyaki sauce, and protein-rich tofu. It’s a great way to enjoy sushi in a fun and easy-to-eat format. Plus, it’s perfect for lunch boxes, picnics, or dinners without the fuss of traditional sushi rolling.

How to make Vegan Tofu "Katsu" Sushi Sandwiches and Rolls

Ingredients:

  • Whole nori sheets
  • Prepared Japanese sushi rice (recipe below)
  • Prepared tofu katsu
  • Other prepared tofu of choice (teriyaki tofu, black pepper tofu, smoked tofu, etc.)
  • Thinly sliced carrots
  • Lettuce
  • Pickled radish (store-bought)
  • Pickled burdock root (store-bought)
  • Homemade teriyaki sauce
  • Sesame seeds (for sprinkling)
  • 1 1/2 cups uncooked Japanese rice or short grain rice
  • 1/8 to 1/4 cup rice vinegar (this type of vinegar is essential)
  • 1 1/2 tbsp cane sugar (feel free to adjust accordingly)
  • 3/4 tsp salt

Directions:

Japanese Sushi Rice:

  1. Rinse the uncooked Japanese rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch.
  2. Cook the rice according to the package instructions. Once done, allow it to cool slightly.
  3. In a small bowl, mix rice vinegar, cane sugar, and salt until dissolved. Then, gently fold this mixture into the warm rice. Set aside to cool further.

Sushi Sandwiches (Onigirazu):

  1. Take a whole nori sheet and place it shiny side down on a clean surface.
  2. Add a scoop of sushi rice in the center of the nori, spreading it out a bit.
  3. Layer tofu katsu, other prepared tofu, thinly sliced carrots, lettuce, and pickled radish on top of the rice.
  4. Drizzle with homemade teriyaki sauce and sprinkle sesame seeds over the filling.
  5. Fold the nori over the filling to create a square-shaped sandwich. Use water on your fingers to seal the edges to hold it together.
  6. Serve immediately or wrap in plastic wrap for later.

Sushi Rolls (Maki):

  1. Place a whole nori sheet shiny side down on a bamboo sushi mat.
  2. Spread a layer of sushi rice evenly over the nori, leaving some space at the top.
  3. Add your choice of tofu, carrots, lettuce, and pickled vegetables across the rice.
  4. Carefully roll the bamboo mat away from you, tucking the filling inside as you go. Keep rolling until you reach the edge. Seal the end with a bit of water.
  5. Slice the roll into bite-sized pieces with a sharp knife and serve.

How to serve Vegan Tofu "Katsu" Sushi Sandwiches and Rolls

Serve the sandwiches and rolls with extra teriyaki sauce on the side for dipping. You can also pair them with a simple salad or miso soup for a complete meal. Garnishing with sesame seeds adds a nice crunch and lovely presentation.

How to store Vegan Tofu "Katsu" Sushi Sandwiches and Rolls

If you have leftovers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator. They are best enjoyed within one day but can last up to two days. Note that the nori may become soft when storing.

Tips to make Vegan Tofu "Katsu" Sushi Sandwiches and Rolls

  • Make sure to rinse the rice well to get the right texture.
  • Feel free to adjust the filling ingredients based on your taste preferences.
  • Use a sharp knife when slicing the sushi rolls to achieve clean edges.

Variation

You can swap out the tofu for other preferred proteins like tempeh or chickpeas to cater to different tastes. Additionally, change up the vegetables based on what you have on hand.

FAQs

Can I use other types of rice?
Yes, you can use short grain rice, but for the best texture, stick with Japanese sushi rice.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce or teriyaki sauce, the recipe can be fully gluten-free.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, both the tofu and rice can be prepared in advance, but it’s best to assemble the rolls or sandwiches just before serving to keep the nori crispy.