Fusion Rice Burger

Welcome to the ultimate culinary adventure where traditional Japanese sushi meets the beloved American burger! Our incredibly easy Sushi Burger recipe delivers layers of perfectly seasoned spicy salmon, succulent imitation crab, and creamy avocado, all beautifully encased within delicate nori wraps and pillowy sushi rice buns. Imagine the familiar, exquisite flavors and textures of your favorite sushi roll, but in a fun, handheld burger format that’s perfect for any occasion. This innovative dish is not only a delightful experience for your taste buds but also a feast for the eyes, making it an ideal choice for entertaining or a unique family meal. The best part? You can easily prepare these stunning sushi burgers in advance and customize them endlessly with your preferred flavors and mix-ins, ensuring every bite is exactly how you like it.

Two halves of a nori wrap sushi burger stacked on top of each other, showcasing layers of rice, salmon, avocado, and crab.

Sushi Burgers represent a truly fresh and exciting evolution of sushi, blending culinary traditions into a singular, irresistible creation. The foundation of this masterpiece is a soft, slightly sweet, and sticky sushi rice bun, which can be crafted from freshly cooked rice or conveniently from leftover sushi rice. These rice buns are then generously filled with vibrant mixtures, such as a zesty spicy salmon and a rich, savory crab salad, complemented by slices of creamy, ripe avocado. Each element is thoughtfully layered to create a symphony of flavors and textures. The entire burger is elegantly held together by crisp nori wraps, providing a subtly oceanic crunch that perfectly complements the fillings. This ingenious design transforms sushi into a delightful, easy-to-eat handheld meal that every sushi aficionado will undoubtedly savor.

If you’re already a fan of inventive sushi creations and seeking more recipes to expand your repertoire, be sure to explore my other popular dishes. Dive into the delightful Shrimp Sushi Stack, master the art of rolling with the Easy Spicy Salmon Sushi Roll, or indulge in the comforting flavors of an Easy Sushi Bake. Each recipe offers a unique take on sushi, promising delicious results that will impress your family and friends.

Contents

Why You’ll Adore This Sushi Burger Recipe

This Sushi Burger recipe isn’t just another dish; it’s a game-changer for anyone who loves sushi but craves something new and exciting. Here’s why this recipe is destined to become a staple in your kitchen:

Minimal Cooking Required for Maximum Flavor: Unlike many intricate recipes that demand hours in the kitchen, this sushi burger calls for surprisingly little actual cooking. The primary culinary task is perfecting your sushi rice, which is a straightforward process. Once your rice is ready, the rest is all about assembly – making it an ideal choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a stress-free weekend project. Enjoy gourmet sushi flavors without the lengthy preparation.
Authentic Sushi Taste, Redefined Presentation: Don’t let the burger shape fool you; this dish delivers all the beloved, fresh, and savory flavors you expect from traditional sushi. Each layer, from the subtly seasoned rice to the vibrant seafood fillings and crisp nori, contributes to an authentic taste experience. It’s essentially your favorite sushi roll presented in a fun, accessible, and uniquely burger-like format, offering a delightful twist on a classic.
Endlessly Customizable for Every Palate: One of the greatest joys of this sushi burger is its incredible versatility. You are the chef, and the possibilities are limitless! Easily adjust the spice level to your preference, from a mild hint of heat to a fiery kick. Swap out salmon and crab for other protein options like seared tuna, cooked shrimp, tender grilled chicken, or even plant-based alternatives such as marinated tofu or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian version. Feel free to load up on your favorite vegetables; crunchy cucumber, sweet carrots, vibrant bell peppers, or even a sprinkle of radish sprouts can add extra freshness and texture. This adaptability ensures that everyone, regardless of their dietary preferences or cravings, can enjoy a personalized sushi burger creation.

Essential Sushi Burger Ingredients

Crafting the perfect sushi burger begins with selecting the right ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that authentic sushi flavor and delightful texture:

Sushi Rice: This is the backbone of your burger. Always cook it meticulously according to package instructions to achieve the ideal sticky, yet separate, grain texture that is crucial for forming sturdy buns. The stickiness ensures your burger holds together beautifully.
Rice Vinegar: A mild, slightly sweet vinegar essential for seasoning sushi rice. It imparts a delicate tang and gloss. If unavailable, a good quality apple cider vinegar can serve as a suitable substitute, though it will alter the flavor profile slightly.
Sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness to the rice vinegar mixture, balancing the acidity and enhancing the overall flavor of the rice. While traditionally included, it can be omitted if you prefer a less sweet rice or are managing sugar intake.
Mayonnaise: The creamy base for your spicy seafood mixture. Opt for your favorite brand, or for a more authentic Japanese flavor, choose Kewpie mayonnaise, known for its richer, tangier profile and distinct umami notes.
Sriracha: This popular chili sauce is key to the “spicy” element. Adjust the amount to control the heat level. A little goes a long way, but feel free to add more for an extra kick!
Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice brightens the flavors of the spicy mayo and the seafood fillings. Its citrusy zest cuts through the richness and adds a refreshing note that bottled juice simply can’t replicate.
Salmon: For the best quality and safety, select sushi-grade salmon. This ensures it’s safe for raw consumption. Alternatively, cold smoked salmon (the kind found in the deli section) can be used for a similar flavor and texture without needing to source raw sushi-grade fish.
Imitation Crab: Known for its sweet, flaky texture, imitation crab (surimi) is a common and delicious sushi ingredient. You can use either flakes or sticks; simply chop or shred them into small, manageable pieces to integrate seamlessly into your filling.
Avocados: Choose ripe avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure. Cut them into small, uniform cubes or thin slices. Their creamy texture and rich, buttery flavor are indispensable for a perfect sushi burger.
Nori Sheets: These dried seaweed sheets act as the “bun” wrap for your sushi burger. Use full-sized sheets to ensure they fully encase your creation. Gently moistening the edges before sealing can help them adhere better.
Green Onions: Finely chopped green onions serve as a vibrant and flavorful garnish, adding a mild oniony bite and a pop of color to the finished burger.

A selection of sushi burger ingredients laid out on a kitchen counter: cooked sushi rice, fresh salmon, imitation crab, avocado, nori sheets, sriracha, mayonnaise, lime juice, and green onions.

Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Delicious Sushi Burger

Making these delightful sushi burgers is a fun and rewarding process. Follow these simple steps to bring your culinary creation to life:

Step 1: Prepare the Sushi Rice. Begin by cooking your sushi rice precisely according to the instructions on its package. This is a critical step, as perfectly cooked, slightly sticky rice is essential for forming the buns. Once cooked, transfer the hot rice into a large mixing bowl. While it’s still warm, gently fold in the rice vinegar and sugar. Mix thoroughly until the sugar dissolves and the rice is evenly seasoned. Set this aside to cool slightly to a manageable temperature.

A spoon is used to stir a bowl of sushi rice with added sugar and rice vinegar, ensuring even seasoning.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Spicy Dressing. In a separate small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sriracha, and fresh lime juice. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well combined and form a smooth, creamy, and flavorful dressing. This will be the delicious binding agent for your seafood fillings.

Two bowls containing prepared salmon mix and crab mix, ready to be used as filling for sushi rice bun nori wraps.

Step 3: Season the Seafood Fillings. Divide the spicy mayonnaise dressing evenly into two portions. Add one half of the dressing to the bowl of diced salmon and the other half to the chopped or shredded imitation crab. Gently toss each bowl separately until the seafood is thoroughly coated with the creamy, spicy mixture. Set both bowls aside, ready for assembly.

A step-by-step visual guide demonstrating how to build a sushi burger with layers of rice, salmon, avocado, and crab.

Step 4: Expertly Build Your Sushi Burger. On a clean plate or cutting board, lay out a single nori sheet. Place a ring mold (such as a metal pastry ring or the rim of a wide jar) in the center of the nori. Begin by pressing a layer of seasoned sushi rice firmly into the bottom of the mold to form the first “bun.” Next, add an even layer of your spicy salmon mixture, followed by a layer of cubed avocado, and then the creamy crab mixture. Finish with another layer of sushi rice, pressing it down gently to create the top “bun.”

A demonstration of how to expertly fold a Japanese seaweed wrap around the sushi burger fillings to secure them.

Step 5: Secure with Nori Wrap. Carefully and gently remove the ring mold from around your layered sushi burger. Now, carefully fold the corners and edges of the nori sheet inwards, wrapping them tightly around the entire burger to fully enclose all the fillings. To help the nori adhere, you can slightly dampen the edges with a tiny bit of water before pressing them together.

Step 6: Allow the Burgers to Rest and Set. Once wrapped, place each sushi burger into a piece of cling film (plastic wrap). Wrap it very tightly to help the ingredients compress and meld together, and to allow the nori to soften slightly. Let the burger rest for at least 15 minutes in the refrigerator. This resting period is crucial for the burger to set and become firm enough to slice without falling apart.

Step 7: Garnish, Slice, and Serve Immediately. After resting, unwrap your sushi burger from the cling film. Using a very sharp, moistened knife, slice the burger vertically through the center, creating two perfect halves that showcase all the vibrant layers. Garnish generously with freshly chopped green onions for a final touch of flavor and visual appeal. Serve your magnificent sushi burgers immediately to enjoy them at their peak freshness and texture.

Expert Tips for the Perfect Sushi Burger

Achieving sushi burger perfection is easier than you think with these helpful tips:

Achieve Optimal Sticky Rice: The foundation of a great sushi burger is perfectly cooked sushi rice. Ensure your sushi rice is not just cooked, but also has that signature stickiness. This is crucial for the rice buns to hold their shape and contain the fillings without crumbling. Overcooked or undercooked rice will compromise the structural integrity of your burger.
Precise Ingredient Slicing: For ease of stacking and a more enjoyable eating experience, make sure all your fillings – fish, avocado, cucumbers, or any other vegetables – are sliced thinly and uniformly. This allows for a neat presentation, easier compression within the burger, and ensures each bite contains a balanced medley of flavors and textures.
Master the Nori Wrap: Wrapping the nori sheets tightly around the rice buns is key to preventing your sushi burger from falling apart. Before folding, lightly dampen the edges of the nori with a tiny bit of water. This acts as a natural adhesive, helping the nori to stick firmly and create a secure, edible wrapper.
Serve for Peak Freshness: While sushi burgers can be prepared slightly in advance, they are best enjoyed immediately after assembly. This ensures the nori remains crisp (or pleasantly soft if it’s had a brief rest), the rice is at its prime texture, and the seafood and avocado are at their freshest.
Creative Protein Substitutions: Don’t limit yourself to salmon and imitation crab. Feel free to substitute with other delicious options like fresh tuna (sushi-grade), cooked shrimp, or even leftover grilled or baked salmon for a different twist. For a vegetarian option, consider marinated and pan-seared tofu, tempeh, or finely chopped mushrooms.
Incorporate More Veggies: Elevate your sushi burger with a variety of fresh sushi-grade vegetables. Thinly sliced cucumbers add a refreshing crunch, shredded carrots provide a subtle sweetness and vibrant color, and julienned bell peppers offer a mild, crisp texture. Experiment with sprouts or finely chopped radishes for extra zest.
Enhance the Seal: After you’ve folded the nori sheet around the burger, gently press the edges together. A dab of water on the nori can help create a stronger seal, ensuring your burger stays intact until the last bite.

Storing Your Sushi Burger Creations

For the absolute best flavor and texture, sushi burgers, like most sushi dishes, are designed to be eaten immediately after they are assembled. The fresh ingredients, especially the rice and seafood, are at their prime moments after preparation.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, be aware that the texture of the rice may become firmer and the nori might lose some of its crispness or become softer, which can make the experience less enjoyable than when freshly made. The seafood and avocado might also start to oxidize or change texture.

For convenience, you can prepare the sushi burgers up to a few hours in advance of serving. In this case, ensure each burger is individually wrapped tightly in plastic cling film and stored in the refrigerator. This helps to prevent the rice from drying out and keeps the fillings fresh. Just remember to allow them a brief moment to come slightly closer to room temperature before serving for optimal enjoyment.

Exciting Alternative Sushi Variations

The versatility of the sushi burger concept opens up a world of creative possibilities. Here are some fantastic variations to inspire your next culinary adventure:

Vegetarian Delight: For a plant-based version, replace the fish and crab with protein-rich alternatives like savory marinated and pan-seared tofu, grilled portobello mushrooms, or a blend of finely diced, sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers and zucchini.
Tempura Crunch: Introduce an irresistible textural contrast by adding crispy tempura shrimp or thinly sliced tempura vegetables (like sweet potato or asparagus) to the layers. The warm, crunchy element against the cool, soft fillings is truly sublime.
Teriyaki Twist: Infuse your sushi burger with a delightful sweet and savory Japanese flavor. Drizzle a rich homemade or store-bought teriyaki sauce over your chosen fillings before topping with the second rice bun, adding an extra layer of umami.
Sushi Burrito Innovation: Instead of forming a round burger, use a larger nori sheet to roll all the sushi rice and fillings into a substantial, handheld sushi burrito. This offers a different eating experience, perfect for a grab-and-go meal.
Deconstructed Rice Bowl: If you prefer a fork-and-knife approach, simply serve the seasoned sushi rice in a bowl, top it with your prepared fillings (spicy salmon, crab, avocado), and artfully arrange any sauces or garnishes. It’s all the flavor, in a more relaxed format.
Mini Sushi Sliders: Perfect for appetizers or party bites, create smaller rice buns using mini ring molds. Fill them with bite-sized pieces of fish, vegetables, or even a mix of both for adorable and easily shareable sushi sliders.

A beautifully presented sushi burger sliced in half, showcasing its intricate layers on a serving tray.

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Sushi Burger

While a sushi burger is a fulfilling meal on its own, pairing it with complementary sides can elevate your dining experience. A classic choice is serving it with a small bowl of soy sauce for dipping, perhaps enhanced with a touch of wasabi or ginger. To make this a complete and well-rounded meal, consider these delicious accompaniments:

For light and fresh options, steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt, a crisp green salad with a ginger dressing, or a refreshing seaweed salad perfectly balance the richness of the burger. If you’re looking for warm and comforting sides, a traditional Miso soup or a bowl of clear broth can be wonderful additions. For those who enjoy a variety of Asian flavors, explore these delightful side dishes:

Honey Chilli Potatoes: Sweet and spicy potatoes offering a fantastic textural contrast.
Crispy Bang Bang Cauliflower: A flavorful and crunchy vegetable option with a creamy, spicy sauce.
Spicy Kani Salad: A refreshing and zesty salad made with imitation crab, cucumber, and a spicy dressing.
Chili Garlic Noodles: Flavor-packed noodles that add a satisfying carb component with a kick.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sushi Burgers

Here are some common questions about sushi burgers to help you master this unique dish:

What exactly is a sushi burger? A sushi burger is an innovative culinary creation that takes the familiar form of a traditional burger but replaces the bread bun with compressed sushi rice and the typical patty with classic sushi fillings. It typically features layers of seasoned sushi rice, fresh seafood (like spicy salmon or crab), creamy avocado, and often other vegetables, all wrapped together in a sheet of nori (seaweed). This concept originated in Japan, famously popularized by chains like MOS Burger, as a fun and accessible way to enjoy sushi flavors.

Can I freeze Sushi Burgers for later? Freezing sushi burgers is generally not recommended. The delicate textures of sushi rice, fresh fish, and avocado do not hold up well to freezing and thawing. The rice can become hard and crumbly, the fish texture may degrade, and the avocado will turn mushy and discolored. For the best quality, it’s always best to consume them fresh or after short refrigeration.

Is it okay to use regular rice instead of sushi rice? While sushi rice is highly recommended for its specific short-grain size and high starch content, which makes it perfectly sticky and moldable for forming the buns, you can use other short-grain white rice as an alternative if sushi rice is unavailable. However, be aware that regular long-grain rice varieties will not achieve the desired sticky texture, and your burger may struggle to hold its shape. Proper sticky rice is crucial for the structure of the burger.

Where can I find sushi-grade fish? Sourcing sushi-grade fish is key for safely enjoying raw seafood in your sushi burgers. Look for reputable specialty seafood markets that specifically label their fish as “sushi-grade” or “sashimi-grade.” These markets often have strict handling and freezing protocols. Don’t hesitate to ask your local fishmonger for recommendations or about their freshest, safest options for raw consumption.

Can Sushi Burgers be made ahead of time? For optimal freshness, texture, and taste, it is highly recommended to assemble your sushi burgers just before serving. This prevents the sushi rice from drying out and hardening, keeps the nori from becoming overly soggy, and ensures the seafood and avocado maintain their vibrant colors and delicate textures. If you must prepare them in advance, aim for no more than a few hours, and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before refrigerating to minimize air exposure.

Two rice bun sushi burgers, sliced in half to reveal the layered fillings, artfully arranged on a serving tray.

More Asian-Inspired Recipes to Explore

If you’ve enjoyed the innovative flavors of this sushi burger, you’ll love these other Asian-inspired recipes that promise to bring exciting tastes to your table:

Chicken and Shrimp Stir Fry: A quick, flavorful, and versatile dish packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables.
Salmon Sushi Bake: All the delightful flavors of a sushi roll, baked into a comforting casserole, perfect for sharing.
Creamy Gochujang Pasta: A fusion dish combining Italian pasta with the bold, spicy, and savory notes of Korean gochujang.
Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken: Recreate this beloved takeout classic at home with tender chicken in a sweet and savory teriyaki glaze.
Easy Sweet and Chili Shrimp: Succulent shrimp tossed in a vibrant and zesty sweet chili sauce, perfect for a quick appetizer or main.

Elevate your dinner experience and delight your senses with our incredible Sushi Burger recipe. With its effortlessly customizable fillings, stunning eye-catching presentation, and a harmonious burst of fresh, authentic flavors, this dish is truly a showstopper. It’s guaranteed to impress your friends and family alike, making every meal a memorable occasion. Dive into the world of creative sushi and discover how easy and rewarding it is to craft this culinary masterpiece at home. Enjoy the journey of flavors!

If you try this recipe or any of my other recipes, please leave a star rating in the comment section below. Also follow me at Cookin’ With Mima on Facebook |Instagram |Pinterest for all of my latest social posts and recipes.

Sushi Burger Recipe

By: Mariam Ezzeddine

Close up of a sushi stuffed Japanese seaweed wrap.

This incredible and easy Sushi Burger features savory layers of spicy salmon, rich imitation crab, and creamy avocado, all ingeniously held together with perfectly formed sushi rice buns and crisp nori wraps. It captures all the beloved flavor and delightful texture of your favorite sushi roll, reimagined in a fun and convenient burger shape. These can be easily prepared in advance and customized to your heart’s content with various fillings and seasonings.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Resting Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

2 cups sushi rice, cooked
2 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar
1 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoon sriracha
2 tablespoon lime juice
8 oz salmon, diced (sushi-grade or cold smoked)
5 oz Imitation crab, chopped or shredded
2 medium avocados, cut into cubes
4 large nori sheets
Chopped green onions, for garnish

Instructions

Cook the sushi rice according to the package instructions until perfectly sticky. Transfer it to a bowl. Add rice vinegar and sugar, then mix it well until fully incorporated. Set aside to cool slightly.
In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sriracha, and fresh lime juice. Whisk until well combined to create your spicy dressing.
Divide the spicy mayo dressing into two equal halves. Add one half to the diced salmon and the other half to the imitation crab. Toss both mixtures separately to combine thoroughly and set aside.
On a plate or clean surface, place one nori sheet. Position a ring mold (approx. 3-4 inches in diameter) in the center of the nori. Begin by pressing a layer of seasoned sushi rice firmly into the bottom of the mold.
Follow the rice layer with an even layer of the spicy salmon mixture, then add a layer of cubed avocado, and finally the creamy crab mixture. Finish by adding another layer of sushi rice on top, pressing gently to form the upper bun.
Carefully remove the ring mold. Gently fold the corners and edges of the nori sheet inwards, wrapping them tightly around the entire burger to fully enclose the fillings. You may lightly dampen the edges of the nori with water to help them stick.
Place the wrapped sushi burger in plastic cling wrap. Wrap it tightly and allow the burger to rest in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes. This helps it set and become firm.
After resting, unwrap the burger. Using a very sharp, moistened knife, slice the burger vertically through the center to create two halves. Garnish with freshly chopped green onions and serve immediately for the best experience.

Notes

Use Sticky Rice: Ensure the sushi rice is properly cooked and sufficiently sticky. This is vital for the rice buns to hold their shape and prevent the burger from falling apart.
Slice Ingredients Thinly: For easier stacking, cleaner bites, and even distribution of flavor, slice your fish, avocado, and any other vegetables thinly and uniformly.
Wrap Tightly with Nori: A snug nori wrap is essential. Lightly moisten the edges of the nori before folding to create a firm seal that keeps all the delicious fillings secure.
Serve Immediately: For the freshest taste and best texture, especially concerning the rice and nori, enjoy your Sushi Burger as soon as it’s assembled.

Nutrition (per serving)