Why You’ll Love Salmon Sushi Sandwiches (Onigirazu) Recipe
These salmon sushi sandwiches are perfect for anyone who loves sushi but wants a simpler, no-roll method. There’s no bamboo mat required, and the layering technique makes them approachable even for beginners.
They’re ideal for meal prep, packed lunches, picnics, or light dinners. The combination of smoky salmon, creamy avocado, crunchy cabbage, and a touch of spicy sriracha mayo creates a balanced bite every time. You can also customize the fillings to suit your taste, making this recipe incredibly versatile.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
4 (8″x8″ / 20cmx20cm) sushi nori sheets
2 cups cooked sushi rice, cold
7 oz / 200 g smoked salmon, sliced
1 medium avocado, halved, pitted, peeled and finely sliced
1/2 small red cabbage, finely sliced
1 tsp sesame seeds, or as needed
4 tsp sriracha mayo, or as needed
3 tbsp rice vinegar, for pickling cabbage (optional)
good pinch of salt, for pickling cabbage and seasoning (optional)
Directions
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Pickle the cabbage (optional)
If you’d like to pickle the cabbage, add the sliced cabbage to a bowl with rice vinegar and a good pinch of salt. Toss well to combine. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes, tossing occasionally. Once softened, drain the liquid and gently squeeze the cabbage with your hands to remove excess moisture. -
Stack the sandwich
Lay a sheet of cling film on a flat surface. Place a nori sheet on top in a diamond shape. In the center, add about 1/4 cup of sushi rice and shape it into a rough square. Layer with a pinch of cabbage, slices of smoked salmon, avocado slices with a light pinch of salt, a drizzle of sriracha mayo, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Add another 1/4 cup of rice on top, shaping it gently to align with the bottom layer. -
Fold the sandwich
Fold the left and right corners of the nori toward the center, pressing gently so they stick to the rice. Then fold the top and bottom corners inward, pressing down to seal. Wrap tightly with the cling film to secure the shape. Refrigerate for about 5 minutes to help the nori soften and seal. -
Serve
Remove the cling film and slice the sandwich in half through the center. Serve immediately, optionally topping with extra sriracha mayo and sesame seeds.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4
Preparation time: 45 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Variations
For a spicy kick, add thinly sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili flakes inside the sandwich.
Swap the smoked salmon for cooked teriyaki salmon, grilled shrimp, or even imitation crab for a different flavor profile.
For a vegetarian version, replace the salmon with marinated tofu, cucumber sticks, and shredded carrots.
Add a thin omelet layer for extra protein and a more traditional Japanese-inspired filling.
Use brown sushi rice or cauliflower rice for a lighter or whole-grain option.
Storage/Reheating
These sushi sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Keep them tightly wrapped in cling film to prevent the rice from drying out.
If storing, avoid adding too much sauce beforehand to prevent sogginess. Add extra sriracha mayo just before serving if desired.
Reheating is not recommended, as it can affect the texture of the nori and avocado. Serve chilled or at cool room temperature.
FAQs
What is onigirazu?
Onigirazu is a Japanese-style rice sandwich made by layering rice and fillings between sheets of nori and folding it into a compact parcel instead of rolling it like traditional sushi.
Can I use freshly cooked rice?
It’s best to use cooled sushi rice. Freshly cooked hot rice can make the nori too soft and difficult to handle.
Do I have to pickle the cabbage?
No, pickling is optional. Fresh cabbage works perfectly fine, though pickling adds extra flavor and softens the texture.
How do I keep the nori from tearing?
Avoid overfilling the sandwich and press gently but firmly when folding. Letting it rest wrapped tightly helps the nori seal properly.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them a few hours in advance and store them wrapped in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
What type of salmon works best?
Smoked salmon is convenient and flavorful, but you can also use cooked or seared salmon if preferred.
Can I freeze salmon sushi sandwiches?
Freezing is not recommended, as the rice and avocado texture will change significantly once thawed.
How do I prevent the avocado from browning?
Lightly brushing the avocado slices with lemon juice can help slow oxidation if preparing in advance.
Is sriracha mayo necessary?
No, it’s optional. You can substitute with plain mayonnaise, spicy yogurt sauce, or omit it entirely.
What can I serve with these sandwiches?
They pair well with miso soup, a simple cucumber salad, edamame, or a light seaweed salad.
Conclusion
Salmon Sushi Sandwiches (Onigirazu) are a creative and approachable way to enjoy sushi flavors without the need for rolling skills or special equipment. With fresh ingredients, customizable fillings, and simple folding techniques, this recipe is perfect for both beginners and seasoned home cooks. Whether for lunch, dinner, or meal prep, these handheld sushi sandwiches are sure to become a favorite.
