Can You Make Sushi Without Raw Fish? Try These Tasty Alternatives

Mar 10

5 min read

There are many ways to enjoy Sushi without raw fish using simple, easy-to-find ingredients. Whether you prefer vegetarian sushi, vegan sushi rolls, or sushi made with cooked seafood, there are plenty of flavour-packed options that do not require sushi-grade fish. From crispy tempura prawns to creamy avocado maki, sushi without raw fish is just as delicious. You do not need specialist ingredients or expensive seafood to make great sushi at home. Supermarket staples like smoked salmon, cucumber, roasted vegetables, and tofu can all be used to create tasty sushi rolls. This guide will walk you through the best fillings, easy recipes, and where to find great sushi without raw fish in the UK.

Why Choose Sushi Without Raw Fish?

Safer and More Convenient

Sourcing sushi-grade fish can be difficult, and handling raw seafood at home requires proper storage and preparation. Using cooked fish, seafood alternatives, or plant-based fillings makes homemade sushi much easier and safer.

Suitable for All Diets

Not everyone eats raw fish. Whether for dietary reasons, pregnancy, or personal preference, sushi without raw seafood is a great option. Many popular sushi rolls are naturally vegetarian or vegan, making them perfect for mixed diets.

More Affordable

Fresh sashimi-grade fish can be expensive and is not always available in local supermarkets. Using everyday ingredients like canned tuna, smoked salmon, or roasted vegetables keeps sushi budget-friendly without compromising on taste.

Classic Sushi Fillings Without Raw Fish

Cooked Seafood Rolls

For those who enjoy seafood but prefer it cooked, there are plenty of flavourful options.

Crispy Tempura Prawn Rolls

Tempura prawns add a crunchy texture and a rich, savoury taste. Pair them with avocado and cucumber, and drizzle with spicy mayo or teriyaki sauce for extra flavour.

Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Rolls

Smoked salmon has the same buttery texture as raw salmon but is much easier to find. It works well with cream cheese and chives, or as a simple maki roll with cucumber.

Unagi (Grilled Eel) Rolls

Eel is marinated in a sweet soy-based glaze before being grilled, giving it a deep umami flavour. It pairs well with avocado and sesame seeds for a well-balanced roll.

California Rolls with Imitation Crab

Surimi, or imitation crab, is a popular sushi ingredient that mimics the taste and texture of fresh crab. It is often combined with avocado, cucumber, and sesame seeds to make California rolls, one of the most well-known sushi rolls in the UK.

Vegetarian Sushi Rolls

Plant-based sushi is full of flavour, colour, and texture.

Avocado and Cucumber Rolls

This classic roll is refreshing, creamy, and easy to make. The contrast between the smooth avocado and crisp cucumber makes it a perfect choice for beginners.

Roasted Sweet Potato Rolls

Sweet potato adds natural sweetness and a soft texture. Roast or fry it in tempura batter for an extra crispy bite.

Tamago (Japanese Omelette) Sushi

Tamago is a slightly sweet, layered omelette that adds protein and a delicate texture to sushi rolls. It is commonly served as nigiri but also works well in maki rolls.

Asparagus and Red Pepper Rolls

Grilled asparagus and roasted red pepper add a smoky depth of flavour, making this roll a great alternative to fish-based sushi.

Vegan Sushi Ideas

There are plenty of tasty plant-based fillings that make great sushi.

Mango and Avocado Rolls

The sweetness of mango pairs perfectly with creamy avocado, creating a fresh and light roll.

Tofu and Kimchi Rolls

Marinated tofu combined with spicy, tangy kimchi creates a sushi roll full of bold flavours.

Mushroom Nigiri

Sautéed shiitake mushrooms provide a meaty texture and deep umami flavour, making them a great substitute for fish-based nigiri.

Fun and Unusual Sushi Fillings

Korean-Style Tuna Salad Sushi

Mix canned tuna with mayonnaise, sriracha, and chopped spring onions for a creamy, spicy filling. Add shredded carrots and cucumber for extra crunch.

Peanut Butter and Banana Sushi

For a fun, dessert-style sushi, spread peanut butter on a nori sheet, add banana slices, and roll it up. This is a great snack for kids.

Crispy Panko-Coated Rolls

For extra texture, coat your sushi rolls in panko breadcrumbs and lightly fry them for a crunchy, golden finish.

Making Sushi Without Special Ingredients

You do not need authentic Japanese ingredients to make great sushi at home. Here are some easy swaps:

Nori Sheets – Available in most UK supermarkets in the world food aisle.
Sushi Rice – Short-grain rice can be used if sushi rice is unavailable.
Rice Vinegar – A mix of white vinegar with a pinch of sugar is a simple alternative.
Soy Sauce – Tamari is a great gluten-free option.
Vegetable Fillings – Avocado, cucumber, carrots, and peppers are all easy to find and work well in sushi.

Where to Find Vegan Sushi in the UK

If you want to try plant-based sushi without making it yourself, here are some great places to visit:

London

Itadaki Zen – A fully vegan Japanese restaurant with an extensive sushi selection.
Vegan Planet Sushi – Offers creative sushi rolls with plant-based ingredients.

Manchester

Wagamama – Their yasai maki and tempura vegetable rolls are great options.
Samsi – A Japanese restaurant with a good selection of vegetarian and vegan sushi.

Edinburgh

Harmonium – A vegan eatery with unique sushi rolls.
Sora Lella Vegan Sushi – Specialises in 100% plant-based sushi with fresh ingredients.

Tips for Making Sushi at Home

Making sushi at home is simple once you know a few tricks.

Use a Bamboo Rolling Mat

A sushi rolling mat helps create tight, even rolls. If you do not have one, a clean tea towel can work as an alternative.

Keep Your Hands Wet

Sushi rice is sticky, so damp hands prevent it from sticking while you spread it on the nori.

Do Not Overfill

Too many ingredients make rolling difficult. Stick to two or three fillings per roll for the best results.

Chill Before Slicing

Refrigerating your sushi roll for a few minutes before slicing helps it hold its shape. Use a sharp knife for clean cuts.

Sushi Without Raw Fish is Just as Good

Sushi does not need raw fish to be delicious. Whether you prefer cooked seafood, fresh vegetables, or plant-based alternatives, there are plenty of ways to enjoy sushi at home. With simple ingredients from UK supermarkets, making sushi is affordable, fun, and easy. Try out different fillings, experiment with flavours, and enjoy sushi that suits your taste.