The Best Vegan Sushi Ever: Nourishing, Flavorful, and Easy to Make

If you think sushi has to mean raw fish, think again. This vegan sushi recipe may just be the best you’ve ever had—full of bold flavors, creamy and crunchy textures, and nutrient-dense ingredients that love your body back. Not only is it fun to make (hello, DIY sushi night!), but it’s also packed with healing plant-based foods that support your gut, heart, and overall wellness.

Unlike takeout sushi, which can be pricey and often comes in single-use packaging, this homemade vegan sushi is affordable, customizable, and eco-friendly. Ready to roll?

Let’s dive in!

Why This Vegan Sushi is Extra Special

This sushi isn’t just tasty—it’s a nutrition powerhouse. Here’s why:

• Prebiotics & Probiotics: Asparagus provides prebiotics (fuel for healthy gut bacteria), while kimchi adds probiotics for a thriving microbiome.

• Hydration & Fiber: Crisp cucumber, avocado, and lettuce boost hydration and digestive health.

• Mineral-Rich Nori: Seaweed wraps are loaded with iodine, calcium, iron, and magnesium.

• Plant Protein: Optional baked tofu adds protein and texture, making these rolls extra satisfying.

Ingredients for The Best Vegan Sushi Ever

Sushi Rice Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups short-grain brown rice (dry)

• 3 cups water

• ¼ cup rice vinegar

• ¼ cup coconut aminos

• 2 Tbsp maple syrup

• ¼–½ tsp sea salt

• ½ tsp sesame seeds

Nori Sheets

• 6-8 Nori seaweed wraps*

Veggies & Fillings

• 1 medium avocado, sliced into matchsticks

• 1 small cucumber, julienned

• 1 small carrot, julienned

• 1 small bunch asparagus, lightly steamed OR raw (slice in half if thick, then cut into 2-inch pieces)

• 2 green onions, cut into 2-inch pieces

• A handful of butterhead lettuce or microgreens

• ½ cup kimchi or pickled vegetables of choice

• Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

• Clean tea towel (not a filling :) — it's for rolling)

Optional

• Follow Your Heart Chipotle Vegenaise (or another vegan mayo, optional)

• Soy sauce or coconut aminos

• Wasabi powder

• Fresh or pickled ginger

*Find nori sheets, wasabi powder, and pickled ginger in the Asian/International section of most grocery stores.

**How to prepare tofu:

1. Wrap tofu in paper towels or a clean tea towel and place on a rimmed plate.

2. Set something heavy (like a cast-iron skillet or a few books) on top to press out water for 30–60 minutes.

3. Slice into ½-inch strips.

   • Option 1: Pan-fry with avocado oil, salt, and pepper until golden.

   • Option 2: Bake at 350°F for 25–30 minutes.

   • Option 3: Marinate in coconut aminos before cooking.

   • Time-saving tip: Add tofu raw for a soft texture and neutral flavor—the other sushi ingredients will shine.

Directions for Making the Vegan Sushi

Step 1: Cook the Sushi Rice

1. Rinse 1 ½ cups of short-grain brown rice under cold water.

2. Add to a pot with 3 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer for ~30 minutes until soft.

3. Drain any excess water and transfer rice to a large bowl.

4. In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, coconut aminos, maple syrup, sea salt, and sesame seeds.

5. Pour mixture over the rice and stir gently. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Prep the Veggies and Tofu

• Slice avocado, cucumber, and carrot into thin matchsticks.

• Cut asparagus and green onion into 2-inch pieces.

• Place all fillings (veggies, tofu, kimchi, and greens) into small bowls so they’re ready for assembly.

Step 3: Roll the Sushi

1. Lay a clean tea towel flat on your work surface. Place one sheet of nori shiny side down on top.

2. Wet your hands and spread a thin layer of rice evenly across the nori, leaving about ¾ inch uncovered at the top edge.

3. Place your fillings in a horizontal line across the bottom third of the sheet (e.g., cucumber, avocado, tofu, kimchi, microgreens).

4. Using your thumbs under the towel, roll the nori sheet tightly over the fillings. Apply light, even pressure and continue rolling until sealed.

5. Slightly wet the uncovered top edge of nori and press to seal.

6. Place the roll on a cutting board. With a sharp knife dipped in cold water, slice into 6–8 pieces.

7. Garnish with sesame seeds and serve with soy sauce, coconut aminos, wasabi, and pickled ginger.

See the video below to watch the rolling in action!

Variations to Try

• Chipotle Tofu Roll: Spread vegan chipotle mayo on the nori before adding rice, then fill with tofu, cucumber, and avocado for a smoky-spicy kick.

• Pickled Veggie Roll: Add pickled green beans or other tangy veggies for extra crunch and probiotics.

• Rainbow Roll: Mix and match colorful vegetables for a beautiful plate that doubles as an antioxidant boost.

Nutrition Tip

Since beta-carotene (in veggies like carrots) is fat-soluble, pair your sushi with a healthy fat source like avocado, sesame seeds, or tofu mayo for maximum nutrient absorption.

Sushi Night, Upgraded

This truly is the best vegan sushi recipe—it’s fresh, flavorful, customizable, and loaded with nutrients that fuel your body and gut health. Whether you’re hosting a sushi-making party, prepping a fun family dinner, or just craving something nourishing, these rolls are sure to impress.

So grab a few friends, roll up your sleeves (and your sushi!), and enjoy a meal that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. 🌱🍣

Take photos and share with me here on on Instagram! I'd love to see your sushi creations.