Low Carb Sushi Without Rice - Cauliflower Rice Sushi - 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

  1. 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

  2. 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

  3. 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

  4. 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

  5. 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

  6. Add Fresh Herbs

    Remove from heat and fold in the chopped coriander.

    Time: PT1M

  7. Prepare Fillings

    Julienne the cucumber and carrot into thin matchsticks.

    Time: PT4M

  8. 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

  9. 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

  10. 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

Last updated: April 18, 2026

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Low Carb Sushi Without Rice - Cauliflower Rice Sushi - Low Carb & Keto Friendly

Recipe by Tasty Thai

A low‑carb, vegan twist on classic sushi using cauliflower rice instead of white rice. Light, crunchy, and packed with fresh vegetables, this healthy snack is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.

EasyThaiServes 2

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
33m
Prep
6m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
49m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$5.05
Total cost
$2.53
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • 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.

Safety Warnings

  • Hot oil can cause burns – handle the skillet with a pot holder.
  • Use a very sharp knife and keep fingers curled to avoid cuts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of cauliflower rice sushi in Thai cuisine?

A

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.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of sushi in Thai cuisine?

A

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.

cultural
Q

How is cauliflower rice sushi traditionally served in Thailand?

A

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.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is cauliflower rice sushi associated with in Thai culture?

A

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.

cultural
Q

What authentic Thai ingredients are essential for cauliflower rice sushi versus acceptable substitutes?

A

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.

cultural
Q

What other Thai dishes pair well with cauliflower rice sushi?

A

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.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making cauliflower rice sushi?

A

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.

technical
Q

Why does this cauliflower rice sushi recipe use a brief sauté instead of steaming the cauliflower?

A

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.

technical
Q

Can I make cauliflower rice sushi ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

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.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Tasty Thai specialize in?

A

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.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Tasty Thai's approach to Thai cooking differ from other Thai cooking channels?

A

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.

channel

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