Sushi Balls
Small, colorful, and full of flavor: these vegan sushi balls are perfect for adding a touch of cheer and freshness to your table. This is a homemade version of sushi, called temari sushi or sushi balls, often served for the Hinamatsuri, or girls' festival. I think it's a light and creative idea, ideal for summer, to be enjoyed cold for lunch or served as an alternative appetizer during a dinner with friends.
I know, calling it sushi might make purists cringe, but these vegan sushi balls are truly perfect for those with allergies or who don't like fish. The creamy filling (which can also be made with a classic Philadelphia cream cheese) and the flavored rice combine with natural and vibrant colors for a wow effect that delights with the first bite!
Instructions
- 1
Rinse the rice with fresh water, changing the water several times, until it becomes clear, in order to remove all the starch. Transfer the rice to a heavy-bottomed saucepan and add the amount of water indicated in the ingredients, then cook over medium heat until it boils, then cover the saucepan with a lid and cook for 12 minutes over low heat without lifting the lid.
- 2
Meanwhile, prepare the vegetables: peel and dice them into very small pieces, as you can see in the picture.
- 3
Combine them in a bowl and mix in vegan cream cheese, grated ginger, salt, and pepper.
- 4
Once the rice is cooked, season it with salt, sugar, and vinegar.
- 5
Divide it into 3 bowls and add a different powder (turmeric, spirulina, beetroot) to each, in order to color it.
- 6
Place a sheet of plastic wrap on a work surface, place a handful of rice on it, flatten it, and place some of the filling in the center, then, using the plastic wrap, wrap the rice around the filling.
- 7
Repeat until all the ingredients are used.
- 8
The sushi balls are ready, now you just have to serve them.
Ago's Notes
- Adjust the salt according to the salt content of the ingredients.
What's more rewarding than sharing a well-balanced dish, where each ingredient finds its place? I hope these sushi balls have inspired you to experiment with the simplicity and depth of good food.
How much of a capolavoro is this?
Share your opinion. Ago will say it the Italian way.
Pick a hand and tell Ago what you think.
Related Recipes
Rice Arancini
Rice arancini, a pride of Sicilian cuisine: discover the recipe to make this typical street food at home, with a filling of meat sauce and ham!
Ham Sui Gok (Cantonese Fried Glutinous Rice Dumplings)
Ham Sui Gok (咸水角) are Cantonese fried dumplings with a chewy glutinous rice dough and a savory pork filling. This recipe is the real deal!
Shrimp and Broccoli Stir Fry
Quick and easy seafood stir fry with tender shrimp, crisp broccoli, and savory oyster sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes.