What is gunkan sushi? If you’ve ever walked into a sushi bar and spotted those adorable little oval rice boats wrapped in seaweed and overflowing with colorful toppings — congrats, you’ve just met Gunkan sushi! Let me show you how to make it.
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Also known as “Gunkan Maki” (literally “battleship roll”), this style of sushi is the ultimate combo of nigiri’s shape and maki’s creativity. — no chopstick gymnastics required.
🍣 WHAT DOES GUNKAN MEAN?
Gunkan sushi is made by shaping a small oval of sushi rice (just like nigiri), then wrapping it with a thin strip of nori seaweed to form a little “boat.” The open top is then filled with delicious toppings — think salmon tartar, spicy tuna, crabstick and mayo, or even tofu and cucumber for a veggie twist.
💰 WHY THIS RECIPE IS BUDGET-FRIENDLY?
🥢 Simple ingredients: You only need sushi rice, nori, and affordable fillings like canned tuna, tofu, or cucumber — all cost-effective staples that stretch far.
🍣 No special tools required: Unlike traditional maki rolls, Gunkan sushi doesn’t need a bamboo mat or fancy equipment — just your hands!
💸 Restaurant-style at home: Making Gunkan sushi at home saves big compared to dining out.
🥄 INGREDIENTS NEEDED TO MAKE GUNKAN SUSHI
1 cup sushi rice, cooked and seasoned
1 sheet nori (seaweed), cut into 1-inch wide strips
100g salmon or tuna, finely chopped
1 tablespoon Japanese mayo
1 teaspoon soy sauce
Optional: diced cucumber, crabstick, or tofu for topping variety
👩🏼🍳 HOW TO MAKE GUNKAN SUSHI?
Note: Please scroll to the full printable recipe card at the bottom for ingredient quantities and the method
Prepare the rice: Cook sushi rice and season it with a little rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Let cool slightly.
Shape the base: Wet your hands and shape small oval balls of rice (about the size of two bites).
Wrap with nori: Take a strip of nori and wrap it around the rice, leaving about ½ inch sticking up like a tiny wall. Seal the edge with a dab of water.
Mix your topping: Combine chopped salmon or tuna with Japanese mayo and soy sauce.
Assemble: Spoon the tartar mix neatly into the nori “boat.” Add extras like cucumber cubes, crabsticks, or a sprinkle of tempura flakes for texture.
🍣 TOPPING IDEAS
Salmon tartar – creamy, rich, and always a hit
Spicy tuna – a fiery topping with mayo and chili
Crabstick salad – sweet and tangy with a touch of tempura flakes
Tofu and cucumber – a vegetarian twist
Shrimp tempura bits – for crunch lovers
Flying fish roe or salmon roe – a classic
❓ FAQS
Yes — Gunkan sushi is generally healthy, especially when made with fresh fish, tofu, or vegetables. It’s packed with protein, healthy fats, and nutrients while being low in calories and refined carbs.
Maki is rolled sushi wrapped completely in nori and sliced.
Did you make this recipe? Let me know what you think by leaving a ★★★★★ star rating & comment below. It genuinely helps me & I really appreciate your support! Nikki 💚
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WHAT IS GUNKAN SUSHI? (+ EASY RECIPE!)
- Total Time: 30 min Prep Time
- Yield: 6 pieces 1x
Description
What is gunkan sushi? If you’ve ever walked into a sushi bar and spotted those adorable little oval rice boats wrapped in seaweed and overflowing with colorful toppings — congrats, you’ve just met Gunkan sushi! Let me show you how to make it.
Ingredients
100 g sushi rice (cooked and seasoned)
1 piece of Nori seaweed (cut into 1-inch wide strips)
100g salmon or tuna, cut into small pieces
1 tablespoon Japanese mayo
1 teaspoon soy sauce
Instructions
Prepare the rice: Cook sushi rice and season it with a little rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Let cool slightly.
Shape the base: Wet your hands and shape small oval balls of rice (about the size of two bites).
Wrap with nori: Take a strip of nori and wrap it around the rice, leaving about ½ inch sticking up like a tiny wall. Seal the edge with a dab of water.
Mix your topping: Combine chopped salmon or tuna with Japanese mayo and soy sauce.
Assemble: Spoon the tartar mix neatly into the nori “boat.” Add extras like cucumber cubes, crabsticks, or a sprinkle of tempura flakes for texture.
Notes
Keep your hands slightly wet when handling sushi rice to prevent sticking.
Use fresh, sushi-grade fish for safety and flavor.
Want a vegan version? Use tofu tartar or avocado cucumber instead!
Add a sprinkle of tempura flakes or chili oil for crunch and spice.
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: No-Bake
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