Sushi Donut Recipe

If you think sushi is all about rolls and sashimi, wait until you try the Sushi Donut, a totally fun and bold sushi twist that transforms those classic flavors into a playful, eye-catching dish. Imagine a crunchy outside shell giving way to tender, seasoned sushi rice on the inside, all beautifully topped with fresh fish, creamy avocado, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. This delightful combination is as delicious as it is Instagram-worthy, making it an irresistible appetizer for any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating a Sushi Donut might sound fancy, but it comes down to a handful of simple, fresh ingredients that each play an essential role in delivering the perfect taste, texture, and visual pop. From the sticky sushi rice base to the silky slices of fish, everything comes together like magic.

• Sushi rice: The cornerstone of the dish; perfectly cooked and seasoned for that authentic sticky texture.
• Rice vinegar: Adds subtle tang and balances the richness of the fish and avocado.
• Salmon or tuna: Choose sashimi-grade fish for freshness and silky texture atop your donut.
• Avocado: Creamy and smooth, it complements the salty and tangy flavors beautifully.
• Soy sauce: For drizzling, it brings depth and a hint of saltiness to finish the dish.
• Sesame seeds: Toasted for crunch and a nutty aroma that rounds out the flavor profile.

How to Make Sushi Donut

Step 1: Prepare the Sushi Rice

Begin by rinsing the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Cook the rice according to package instructions, then gently fold in rice vinegar while the rice is still warm—this seasoning gives the rice that signature sushi tang and sticky texture perfect for molding.

Step 2: Shape the Sushi Donut

Once the rice is cooled slightly so it’s manageable, firmly press it into donut-shaped molds, packing the rice tightly so it holds its shape. This step is crucial to ensure your sushi donut has a crispy exterior after cooking but stays soft inside.

Step 3: Pan-Fry to Golden Perfection

Heat a little oil in a non-stick pan and carefully fry each sushi donut on medium heat. Cook until golden brown and crispy on the outside—this contrast of textures is what makes the Sushi Donut so fun and addictive.

Step 4: Add the Toppings

Top each crispy sushi donut with thin slices of fresh salmon or tuna and creamy avocado. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds all around to add that extra flavor punch and nutty crunch. A light drizzle of soy sauce right before serving ties all the flavors together beautifully.

How to Serve Sushi Donut

Garnishes

To elevate your Sushi Donut even more, consider adding a few thinly sliced scallions or a small dollop of wasabi on the side for a little kick. Pickled ginger adds a refreshing palate cleanser, making every bite feel vibrant and fresh.

Side Dishes

This dish stands wonderfully alone as an appetizer, but pairing it with a crisp seaweed salad or miso soup can turn your meal into a balanced, flavorful experience that delights the senses and satisfies completely.

Creative Ways to Present

Present your Sushi Donut on a rustic wooden board or a sleek black ceramic plate to really showcase the vibrant colors. Try arranging several donuts in a spiral or circle to mimic the shape, making it a feast for the eyes before the taste buds.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any Sushi Donut leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Because of the crispy exterior, they’re best eaten within 24 hours before the crunch softens too much.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended for Sushi Donut, as the texture of sushi rice and fresh toppings won’t hold up well. To enjoy the best flavor and texture, it’s ideal to consume fresh.

Reheating

To bring back some of that crispy goodness, gently reheat the sushi donuts in a non-stick pan over low heat until warmed through and slightly crisp again. Avoid microwaving as it can make the rice gummy and lose that delightful contrast.

FAQs

Can I use other types of fish for the Sushi Donut?

Absolutely! While salmon and tuna are classic choices, feel free to experiment with other sashimi-grade fish you love, such as yellowtail or even cooked shrimp, to customize the dish to your preference.

What if I don’t have donut molds?

No worries! You can fashion a mold with a round cookie cutter and a smaller cutter for the center hole or even shape the rice by hand into a ring shape, pressing firmly so it holds together during frying.

Is it possible to make a vegetarian Sushi Donut?

Yes, simply leave out the fish and amp up the toppings with cucumber ribbons, pickled radish, or marinated mushrooms for a fresh, satisfying vegetarian version.

How do I keep the sushi rice from sticking to the molds?

Lightly oiling the donut molds before pressing in the rice helps prevent sticking and makes removing the shaped donuts easier without breaking them apart.

Can I prepare the sushi rice mixture ahead of time?

You can prepare the sushi rice up to a few hours in advance and keep it covered at room temperature to maintain the right texture for molding, but avoid refrigerating it before shaping as cold rice loses stickiness.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly joyful about reinvigorating a beloved classic, and the Sushi Donut does just that with its addictive crunch, fresh toppings, and irresistible presentation. Whether you’re impressing guests or just treating yourself, this recipe is a delight to make and even more fun to eat, so grab your ingredients and get ready to turn sushi night upside down!