Inari Sushi (Inarizushi)

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Inari Sushi (Inarizushi) Recipe: A Sweet and Savory Japanese Delight

Inari Sushi (Inarizushi) is a simple yet delicious type of sushi made with seasoned rice stuffed inside sweet and savory tofu pockets called aburaage. Unlike traditional sushi, this version requires no raw fish, making it an easy and beginner-friendly dish. It’s popular in Japan as a snack, lunchbox item, or offering at celebrations.

Let’s dive into this authentic Inari Sushi recipe and learn how to make these flavorful tofu pouches filled with sushi rice at home! 🍣

Ingredients

For the Sushi Rice:

  • 2 cups Japanese short-grain rice
  • 2 ½ cups water
  • ¼ cup rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt

For the Inari Tofu Pockets:

  • 10 pieces aburaage (fried tofu pouches)
  • 1 ½ cups dashi broth (or water)
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 3 tablespoons mirin
  • 2 tablespoons sugar

Optional Toppings (for variety):

  • Sesame seeds
  • Shredded nori (seaweed strips)
  • Chopped green onions
  • Pickled ginger

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sushi Rice

  1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
  2. Cook the rice using a rice cooker or a pot on the stove with 2 ½ cups of water.
  3. While the rice is cooking, mix rice vinegar, sugar, and salt in a small bowl until dissolved.
  4. Once the rice is done, transfer it to a large bowl and gently fold in the vinegar mixture while fanning the rice to cool it.

Step 2: Prepare the Inari Tofu Pockets

  1. Bring a pot of water to a boil and quickly blanch the aburaage for 30 seconds to remove excess oil. Drain and gently squeeze out the water.
  2. In a separate saucepan, combine dashi broth, soy sauce, mirin, and sugar, then bring to a simmer.
  3. Add the aburaage and simmer for 10–15 minutes, flipping occasionally.
  4. Remove from heat and let them cool in the broth for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Assemble the Inari Sushi

  1. Take a seasoned tofu pouch and gently open it up without tearing it.
  2. Wet your hands with water and form small rice balls (about 2 tablespoons of rice per pocket).
  3. Carefully stuff the rice inside the tofu pouch, shaping it neatly.
  4. Fold the open edge down or tuck it inside to seal the pouch.

Serving Suggestions

  • Sprinkle sesame seeds or nori strips on top for extra flavor.
  • Serve with pickled ginger and soy sauce on the side.
  • Enjoy as a light meal or snack with miso soup and a small salad.

Tips for Success

✅ Be gentle when handling the tofu pouches to avoid tearing them.
✅ Don’t overfill the pouches—leave some space so they don’t break.
✅ Let the tofu absorb the broth for extra flavor.

5. Can I add other fillings to Inari Sushi?

Absolutely! Try adding chopped vegetables, cooked mushrooms, or crab meat for variety.

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