Tofu Chirashi Bowl

'Chirashi' means 'scattered'. It's sushi in its most relaxed form—no rolling required. The focus is on perfectly seasoned rice topped like jewels. In this version, pan-seared tofu takes center stage, proving you don't need fish for a full umami experience.
🕒 Prep Time 30 mins
🍳 Cook Time 15 mins
Total Time 45 mins
🍽️ Servings 2 servings
🔥 Calories 580 kcal
🌍 Cuisine Japanese

Ingredients

Equipment Needed

  • Rice cooker or pot
  • Wooden or plastic bowl (for cooling rice)
  • Sharp knife

Allergen Information

⚠️ Soy
⚠️ Sesame

Instructions

1

Wash rice in a bowl with cold water, draining and repeating 3-4 times until water runs clear. Cook according to package instructions.

Tip: Removing starch prevents gumminess.
2

Wrap tofu in paper towels and place a heavy object (like a can) on top for 10 minutes to press out water.

Tip: Pressing firms the texture so it sears crispy instead of steaming.
3

Cube the tofu. Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat and sear tofu until golden brown.

Tip: High heat creates a Maillard reaction crust that seals in moisture.
4

Dissolve sugar and salt in the vinegar. Pour over hot cooked rice in a bowl. Fold gently with a spatula using cutting motions while fanning the rice.

Tip: Fanning cools the rice quickly, giving it a glossy shine.
5

Slice cucumber and avocado. Cut Nori into strips.

Tip: Add a drop of vinegar to avocado to prevent browning.
6

Serve rice in bowls topped with tofu, veggies, nori, and sesame seeds. Drizzle with soy sauce and sesame oil.

Tip: Texture contrast is key: soft rice, creamy avocado, crisp cucumber.

Recipe FAQ

Why wash the rice?
To remove excess surface starch. Without washing, the rice becomes a gummy paste. Washing ensures distinct, sticky grains.
Can I use Jasmine rice?
No. You need short-grain sushi rice. Long-grain rices like Jasmine won't stick together properly.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Sushi Rice (short-grain)
  • 7 oz Firm Tofu
  • 2 sheets Nori (dried seaweed)
  • 1 whole Ripe Avocado
  • 1 whole Cucumber
  • 1 tbsp Coconut Oil
  • 3 tbsp Soy Sauce
  • 2 tbsp Rice Vinegar
  • 1 tsp Sesame Oil
  • 1 bunch Fresh Cilantro
  • 1 tsp Toasted Sesame Seeds
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1 tsp Sugar