Deconstructed Vegan Sushi Bowl with Avocado

The 'Sushi Bowl' or Chirashi-don is the lazy chef's sushi: everything you love about a roll, without the hassle of rolling. The heart of the dish is the rice: short-grain Japanese rice seasoned with a vinegar-sugar mixture creates the soul of the meal. Fresh, crunchy vegetables and creamy avocado complete this light yet satisfying dish.
🕒 Prep Time 20 mins
🍳 Cook Time 25 mins
Total Time 45 mins
🍽️ Servings 2 servings
🔥 Calories 480 kcal
🌍 Cuisine Japanese

Ingredients

Equipment Needed

  • Pot with lid for rice
  • Sieve for washing rice
  • Sharp knife and cutting board
  • Small bowl for dressing

Allergen Information

⚠️ Soy
⚠️ Sesame

Instructions

1

Place rice in a sieve and wash under cold running water until the water runs clear (about 3-4 minutes). Drain well.

Tip: Removing excess surface starch is key so the grains remain distinct and don't turn into a gummy mash.
2

Combine rice and water in a pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to the lowest setting, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let steam, covered, for another 10 minutes. DO NOT lift the lid!

Tip: Resting in steam allows the grains to cook perfectly to the core.
3

Meanwhile, heat the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt together until dissolved. Pour over the warm rice and gently fold with a wooden spoon or paddle using a cutting motion (don't mash). Let cool.

Tip: The seasoned vinegar gives the rice its sheen and characteristic flavor, while also preserving it.
4

Prep the toppings: Julienne the cucumber and carrot (cut into matchsticks) or use a peeler to make ribbons. Slice the avocado. Use scissors to cut the Nori sheet into strips.

Tip: Different cutting techniques add exciting textures to the dish.
5

Assemble the bowl: Rice on the bottom, arranged with vegetables, edamame, and nori in sections on top. Sprinkle with sesame seeds.

Tip: We eat with our eyes first: color harmony stimulates the appetite.
6

Serve with soy sauce and pickled ginger.

Tip: Ginger is meant to 'cleanse' the palate between bites.

Recipe FAQ

Can I use regular Jasmine rice?
It will taste fine, but the texture won't be sticky, which is essential for the sushi experience. Short-grain 'sushi rice' or risotto rice is a better choice.
What makes the rice sticky?
Starch and the sugary vinegar mixture. However, it's important to rinse it before cooking, otherwise, it becomes gummy rather than nicely sticky.
How do I plate it nicely?
The essence of a 'bowl' is separating colors. Don't mix the toppings; arrange them in small piles on top of the rice.

Ingredients

  • 1 1/4 cups Sushi rice
  • 1 1/2 cups Water
  • 2 tbsp Rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp Sugar
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1 whole Ripe avocado
  • 1 whole English cucumber
  • 1 whole Carrot
  • 5 oz Shelled Edamame (or green peas)
  • 2 sheets Nori seaweed
  • 1 tbsp Soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp Toasted sesame seeds
  • 1 oz Pickled ginger (optional)