Make your sushi experience sweeter with these tasty, easy-to-make rolls!
When it comes to vegan sushi, each person usually has their preferred veggie filling. Personally, I favor sweet potato. So, in this recipe for plant-based sushi rolls, my favorite starchy veg is wrapped in fluffy rice and crisp, salty nori. So simple, tasty, and satisfying. With a mild sweetness and soft texture, the sweet potato sushi roll can be delightful for a variety of palates. Plus, you can easily spice it up with a bit of wasabi or sriracha mayo.
Although there’s a bit of technique and finesse required to roll sushi, the right tools can help you become skilled in no time. A friend showed me how to roll sweet potato sushi with a classic bamboo mat. This gives you the control and precision you need to maintain the shape. Once you get the hang of it though, you can share your new skill with others and host a DIY sushi party. Everyone gets to make their own! Regardless of how or where it’s served, this vegan sushi roll shines bright on the dining table.
Is Sweet Potato Sushi Roll Healthy?
This roll is so simple and has two powerhouse ingredients: nori and sweet potato. Nori, better known as edible seaweed, is a low-calorie, nutrient-rich food. It’s a source of vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids. However, it can contain high levels of sodium, so check the nutrition label. Sweet potato is also a great addition to this roll, packing in high levels of beta-carotene, vitamin A, and soluble fiber. If you’re watching your salt intake, feel free to swap out low-sodium soy sauce, or eat the sushi roll without sauce altogether.
What Makes Sushi Rice Special?
I used to wonder the same thing, but after making sushi myself, I realized the key is the rice. The rice needs to be seasoned with rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Not only that, but you shouldn’t use just any type of rice from your pantry. You’ll specifically want to use Japanese short-grain rice here. All of these ingredients create a sticky cooked rice, which is perfect for wrapping sushi. That’s the magic of Sushi Rice.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover sweet potato sushi can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 1 week. I don’t recommend freezing it, since thawing could ruin the rice’s fluffy texture. Savor your leftover sushi cold or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
Condiments are key for your sweet potato sushi roll, so make sure you are stocked with soy sauce, wasabi and pickled ginger (to cleanse your palate). I like to create an entire sushi night and make multiple rolls, so I’d recommend trying Vegan Sushi and Avocado Sushi Roll, too. Ready to move on to your next course? How about a plate of delicious Broccoli and Mushroom Stir-Fry or Vegan Coconut Sweet Potato Curry with Sweet Potato Noodles? All of these options will result in a scrumptious, Asian-inspired meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups sushi rice rinsed and drained
- 2 1/2 cups water
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 large sweet potato cut into long strips
- 4 nori sheets
- 1 tablespoon black sesame seeds optional
- Soy sauce for serving
- Wasabi for serving
- Pickled ginger for serving
Instructions
- Combine sushi rice and water in a rice cooker. Cook according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Once done, season with rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Set aside to cool to room temperature.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F. Arrange sweet potato strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized. Remove from the oven and let cool.
- Place a nori sheet on a bamboo sushi mat. Spread an even layer of cooled sushi rice onto the nori, leaving a small margin at the top edge. Sprinkle sesame seeds over the rice if using.
- Arrange sweet potato strips along the bottom edge of the rice. Roll the sushi tightly using the bamboo mat. Moisten the top margin of the nori to seal the roll. Repeat with remaining nori sheets.
- Using a wet sharp knife, cut the rolls into bite-sized pieces. Serve immediately with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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