Low Carb Sushi Without Rice — Low Carb & Keto Friendly
Low Carb Sushi Without Rice - Cauliflower Rice Sushi - Low Carb & Keto Friendly is a easy Thai recipe that serves 2. 150 calories per serving. Recipe by Tasty Thai on YouTube.
Prep: 33 min | Cook: 5 min | Total: 45 min
Cost: $5.05 total, $2.53 per serving
Ingredients
- 1 medium head Cauliflower (processed into rice‑like pieces (about 4 cups))
- 1 tsp Salt (to draw out moisture from cauliflower)
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil (for sautéing garlic and cauliflower)
- 1 clove Garlic (minced)
- 1 tbsp Soy Sauce (adds umami)
- 1 tsp Brown Sugar (balances saltiness)
- 1 tsp Lime Juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 tbsp Fresh Coriander (chopped)
- ½ medium Cucumber (julienned into thin strips)
- 1 small Carrot (julienned into matchsticks)
- 4 pieces Nori Sheets (roasted seaweed sheets, rough side up)
Instructions
Rice the Cauliflower
Trim the leaves and core, break the cauliflower into florets and pulse in a food processor until it resembles rice grains.
Time: PT5M
Salt and Drain
Place the cauliflower rice in a large bowl, sprinkle with 1 tsp salt, and toss. Let sit for 10‑15 minutes to release excess moisture.
Time: PT12M
Rinse and Squeeze
Rinse the salted cauliflower rice in a colander under cold water, then transfer to a muslin cloth and squeeze firmly to remove as much water as possible.
Time: PT3M
Sauté Garlic
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Time: PT1M
Temperature: Medium
Cook Cauliflower Rice
Add the squeezed cauliflower rice to the skillet, stir‑fly for 2‑3 minutes. Season with soy sauce, brown sugar, and lime juice, stirring another minute until evenly coated.
Time: PT5M
Temperature: Medium
Add Fresh Herbs
Remove from heat and fold in the chopped coriander.
Time: PT1M
Prepare Fillings
Julienne the cucumber and carrot into thin matchsticks.
Time: PT4M
Assemble Sushi Rolls
Place a nori sheet on a bamboo mat, rough side up. Wet your hands lightly, spread a thin layer of cauliflower rice over the sheet, leaving a ½‑inch border at the top. Lay cucumber and carrot strips along the bottom edge, then roll tightly using the mat. Seal the edge with a little water.
Time: PT5M
Cut the Rolls
Using a very sharp knife dampened with water, slice each roll into 6‑8 pieces. Wipe the blade with a damp cloth between cuts.
Time: PT3M
Serve
Arrange the sushi pieces on a plate. Optional: serve with extra soy sauce or a light dipping sauce.
Time: PT0M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 150
- Protein
- 4 g
- Carbohydrates
- 12 g
- Fat
- 8 g
- Fiber
- 4 g
Dietary info: Vegan, Gluten-Free (use tamari), Low-Carb, Dairy-Free, Nut-Free
Allergens: Soy, Seaweed
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Cauliflower: Broccoli (processed similarly)
- Instead of Salt: Sea salt
- Instead of Olive Oil: Avocado oil
- Instead of Garlic: Garlic powder (¼ tsp)
- Instead of Soy Sauce: Tamari (gluten‑free)
- Instead of Brown Sugar: Coconut sugar
- Instead of Lime Juice: Rice vinegar (½ tsp)
- Instead of Fresh Coriander: Fresh parsley
- Instead of Cucumber: Zucchini
- Instead of Carrot: Daikon radish
- Instead of Nori Sheets: Soy paper
Equipment Needed
- Food Processor
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Muslin Cloth or Cheesecloth
- Colander
- Skillet
- Spatula
- Cutting Board
- Sharp Knife
- Bamboo Rolling Mat (optional)
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Letting the cauliflower rice sit with salt to release water.
- Squeezing out as much moisture as possible with a muslin cloth.
- Cooking the cauliflower rice just until tender to avoid mushiness.
- Rolling the sushi tightly and sealing the edge with water.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Add a pinch of toasted sesame seeds to the cauliflower rice for extra flavor and crunch.
- For a spicy kick, mix a few drops of sriracha into the soy‑sugar seasoning.
- If you like extra umami, sprinkle a tiny amount of toasted nori flakes over the rice before rolling.
Troubleshooting
Cauliflower rice is too watery and the roll falls apart.
Make sure to let the rice sit with salt for the full 10‑15 minutes and squeeze it thoroughly with a muslin cloth. If needed, pat dry with paper towels before cooking.
Rice sticks to the knife when slicing.
Wet the knife blade and wipe it clean between cuts. A very sharp blade also reduces sticking.
Roll is too loose and unravels.
Do not overfill the roll and apply gentle pressure while rolling. Use a little water on the top edge of the nori to seal it firmly.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store rolled sushi in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
Freezer: Not recommended; texture of cauliflower rice changes when frozen.
Room temperature: Consume within 2 hours of preparation if left out.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the cauliflower rice and squeeze out moisture up to a day ahead; keep refrigerated.
- Julienne cucumber and carrot and store in a sealed container with a damp paper towel.
- Keep nori sheets in a dry place; once rolled, cover with a damp cloth to prevent drying.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of cauliflower rice sushi in Thai cuisine?
While traditional Thai sushi is not common, the concept of using cauliflower as a rice substitute reflects modern Thai chefs’ focus on health‑conscious, low‑carb adaptations of beloved Asian dishes. It blends Thai flavors like lime and coriander with the Japanese sushi format, showcasing Thailand’s innovative culinary spirit.
What are the traditional regional variations of sushi in Thai cuisine?
In Thailand, sushi often incorporates local ingredients such as Thai basil, chilies, and mango. Some regional twists include using sticky rice for a sweeter bite or adding coconut‑milk‑marinated fish. The cauliflower rice version is a contemporary, health‑focused variation.
How is cauliflower rice sushi traditionally served in Thailand?
When served in modern Thai eateries, cauliflower rice sushi is plated on a wooden board with fresh herbs, lime wedges, and a side of light soy‑ginger dipping sauce. It is usually presented as a snack or light meal, often accompanied by iced tea.
What occasions or celebrations is cauliflower rice sushi associated with in Thai culture?
Sushi, including low‑carb versions, is popular at casual gatherings, brunches, and health‑focused events in Thailand. It is not tied to a specific festival but is often served at birthday parties and family picnics as a fresh, light option.
What authentic Thai ingredients are essential for cauliflower rice sushi versus acceptable substitutes?
Authentic ingredients include fresh coriander, lime juice, and Thai‑style soy sauce. Substitutes can be parsley for coriander, rice vinegar for lime juice, and tamari for soy sauce if a gluten‑free version is needed.
What other Thai dishes pair well with cauliflower rice sushi?
Pair it with a light Tom Yum soup, Thai cucumber salad (yam pak chuet), or a mango sticky rice dessert for a balanced Thai‑inspired meal.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making cauliflower rice sushi?
Common errors include not draining enough water from the cauliflower, over‑cooking the rice so it becomes mushy, and over‑filling the roll which makes it difficult to seal. Follow the draining and rolling steps carefully for the best texture.
Why does this cauliflower rice sushi recipe use a brief sauté instead of steaming the cauliflower?
Sautéing with a little oil adds flavor and helps evaporate excess moisture quickly, whereas steaming would leave the cauliflower too wet, making the sushi fall apart. The quick stir‑fry also gives a subtle toasted note that mimics the nutty flavor of traditional sushi rice.
Can I make cauliflower rice sushi ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, you can prepare the cauliflower rice and the vegetable strips up to 24 hours ahead and keep them refrigerated in airtight containers. Assemble and roll the sushi just before serving, or wrap rolled pieces tightly in plastic wrap and store in the fridge for up to a day.
What does the YouTube channel Tasty Thai specialize in?
The YouTube channel Tasty Thai focuses on quick, flavorful Thai-inspired dishes that emphasize fresh ingredients, bold spices, and modern twists on classic recipes, often highlighting healthier alternatives.
How does the YouTube channel Tasty Thai's approach to Thai cooking differ from other Thai cooking channels?
Tasty Thai blends traditional Thai flavors with contemporary cooking techniques such as low‑carb substitutions and quick‑prep methods, whereas many other Thai channels stick to classic recipes and longer cooking processes.
Last updated: August 31, 2026
