Best Vegetarian Teriyaki Sushi Recipe for Easy Meals

Sushi is often synonymous with seafood, but that doesn’t mean vegetarians have to miss out on this delightful dish. Our best vegetarian teriyaki sushi recipe combines the rich, savory flavors of teriyaki with fresh, crisp vegetables wrapped in perfectly seasoned sushi rice and nori sheets.

This recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy sushi night at home, whether you’re a seasoned sushi lover or new to making it yourself. Not only is it packed with vibrant colors and textures, but it also offers a healthy, satisfying meal that appeals to all ages.

Using simple ingredients like cucumber, avocado, carrots, and shiitake mushrooms, paired with a homemade teriyaki glaze, this vegetarian sushi is bursting with flavor. Plus, it’s a fun and interactive cooking experience that’s perfect for family dinners or impressing friends.

Let’s dive in and create sushi rolls that are as beautiful as they are delicious!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian teriyaki sushi recipe is a delicious twist on classic sushi, perfect for those avoiding seafood but craving the umami-rich flavors sushi offers. The homemade teriyaki sauce adds a sweet and savory depth that elevates the fresh vegetables, making each bite irresistible.

It’s also highly customizable—swap or add your favorite veggies, and easily make it gluten-free or vegan. The step-by-step instructions ensure even sushi beginners can roll like pros.

Plus, it’s a light yet filling dish, ideal for lunch, dinner, or as party appetizers.

With minimal prep, no raw fish, and tons of fresh produce, this recipe is a wholesome, nutrient-packed dish you can feel great about eating and sharing.

Ingredients

• 2 cups sushi rice
• 2 1/2 cups water
• 1/3 cup rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 4 sheets nori (seaweed)
• 1 medium cucumber, julienned
• 1 ripe avocado, sliced
• 2 medium carrots, julienned
• 1 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Sesame seeds, for garnish
• Pickled ginger, for serving
• Soy sauce or tamari, for dipping

For the Teriyaki Sauce:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 2 tablespoons mirin
• 2 tablespoons sake (optional)
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon minced ginger
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water

Equipment

• Rice cooker or medium saucepan for cooking rice
• Bamboo sushi rolling mat
• Sharp knife for slicing sushi rolls
• Mixing bowls
• Small saucepan for teriyaki sauce
• Cutting board
• Spoon or rice paddle for mixing rice

Instructions

1. Prepare the sushi rice: Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and helps the rice cook properly.
2. Cook the rice with 2 1/2 cups water in a rice cooker or saucepan according to package instructions. Once cooked, transfer rice to a large bowl to cool slightly.
3. Season the rice: In a small bowl, mix rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until dissolved. Gently fold this mixture into the warm rice using a rice paddle or spoon. Spread the rice thinly to cool further and cover with a damp towel to keep moist.
4. Make the teriyaki sauce: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine soy sauce, mirin, sake (if using), brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Stir occasionally and bring to a simmer.
5. Once simmering, stir in the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce. Cook for another minute, then remove from heat and set aside.
6. Sauté the shiitake mushrooms: Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add mushrooms and sauté for 4-5 minutes until tender. Drizzle with 1-2 tablespoons of teriyaki sauce and toss to coat. Remove from heat.
7. Prepare the vegetables: Julienne the cucumber and carrots, and slice the avocado. Keep these ready for rolling.
8. Assemble the sushi rolls: Place a bamboo sushi mat on a flat surface and lay one nori sheet on top, shiny side down.
9. Wet your fingers and spread about 3/4 cup of sushi rice evenly over the nori, leaving a 1-inch border at the far edge.
10. Arrange a line of sautéed mushrooms, cucumber, carrot, and avocado slices about 1 inch from the near edge of the rice.
11. Drizzle a small amount of teriyaki sauce over the veggies for extra flavor.
12. Using the bamboo mat, carefully roll the sushi away from you, applying gentle pressure to keep it tight. Seal the edge by moistening the bare nori strip.
13. Slice the roll: Using a sharp, wet knife, slice the rolled sushi into 6-8 equal pieces. Clean the knife between cuts to prevent sticking.
14. Repeat with remaining ingredients to make additional rolls.
15. Serve: Arrange sushi on a plate, sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds, and serve with pickled ginger, soy sauce, and extra teriyaki sauce for dipping.

Tips & Variations

For best results, use freshly cooked sushi rice and handle it gently to keep the grains intact and sticky.

If you want to add a little crunch, consider including tempura-fried vegetables like asparagus or sweet potato inside the rolls. You can also substitute shiitake mushrooms with grilled portobello or enoki mushrooms for variety.

For a vegan option, ensure your teriyaki sauce uses vegan-friendly ingredients (no honey or fish-based sauces). Gluten-free soy sauce or tamari works perfectly for gluten intolerance.

Experiment with different fillings such as bell peppers, steamed spinach, or even tofu strips marinated in teriyaki sauce.

To make the rolls more colorful and nutritious, add thin strips of red bell pepper or purple cabbage.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Serve your vegetarian teriyaki sushi with traditional sides like pickled ginger, wasabi, and soy sauce or tamari for dipping. A bowl of miso soup or seaweed salad pairs beautifully to complete the meal.

For a refreshing drink, iced green tea or sake complements the sushi’s flavors perfectly. If you’re hosting a sushi night, consider offering a variety of fillings and dipping sauces for guests to customize their rolls.

Want a sweet finish after your sushi feast? Try our Cinnamon Pecan Ice Cream Recipe for a delightful dessert.

Conclusion

This best vegetarian teriyaki sushi recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy sushi without seafood while still savoring the rich, bold flavors of teriyaki and fresh vegetables. It’s approachable enough for beginners and flexible enough for experienced cooks to personalize.

By preparing your own sushi at home, you control the ingredients and can tailor everything to your taste and dietary needs. It’s also a fantastic way to introduce more plant-based meals into your routine without sacrificing flavor or fun.

We hope this recipe inspires you to roll up your sleeves and create delicious, vibrant vegetarian sushi that everyone will love. Don’t forget to check out our other tasty recipes like the Classico Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce Recipe or the comforting Clam Chowder San Francisco Recipe for more culinary inspiration!

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