Irresistible Inari Sushi: Sweet Tofu Pockets Done Right

Hi I'm Merry

Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

Posted on January 16, 2026

On a busy weeknight, I stumbled upon the delightful world of Inari Sushi. With its sweet fried tofu pockets cradling chewy sushi rice, this dish has quickly become my go-to for a satisfying appetizer or light meal. What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity—requiring just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up this vegetarian treat in no time! Plus, the contrast of textures, from the crispy tofu to the sticky rice, creates a dining experience that leaves guests—and myself—wanting more. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or simply tired of fast food, you’ll find joy in crafting these charming little pockets. Curious about the secret to making your own delicious Inari Sushi? Let’s dive in!

Why Is Inari Sushi So Special?

Uniqueness: Inari sushi offers a delightful twist with its combination of crispy tofu pockets and sticky sushi rice. It’s not your typical sushi roll!

Quick Preparation: With just a few simple steps, this recipe comes together in no time, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.

Customizable Flavors: The fillings are versatile, allowing you to add your favorite veggies or proteins, making it a dish that caters to everyone’s tastes.

Perfect for Entertaining: Serve these tasty treats at your next gathering, and watch them disappear—Inari sushi always leaves a lasting impression on guests!

Vegetarian Delight: It’s a nutritious option that’s perfect for vegetarians, giving a satisfying alternative to fast food cravings. Enjoy with a side of pickled vegetables for an extra zing!

Inari Sushi Ingredients

• Get ready to whip up your delicious Inari Sushi with these essential ingredients!

For the Sushi Rice

Cooked Sushi Rice – This is the star of the dish; short-grain rice gives that perfect sticky texture.
Rice Vinegar – Provides a tangy kick that enhances the flavor of the rice.
Sugar – Balances the savory notes, creating that delightful sweetness in every bite.
Salt – Just a pinch enhances the overall flavor profile of your sushi.

For the Tofu Pockets

Inari Age (Fried Tofu Pockets) – The crispy exterior that holds all the goodness; you can find these in any Asian grocery store. Note: For a fun challenge, try making homemade tofu pockets!

Add these ingredients to your shopping list, and you’re just a few steps away from mastering the art of Inari Sushi!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Inari Sushi

Step 1: Prepare the Seasoning
In a small saucepan, combine rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium until the sugar dissolves completely, stirring occasionally for about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly while you prepare the sushi rice. This sweet and tangy seasoning will elevate your Inari sushi filling.

Step 2: Season the Sushi Rice
In a large bowl, gently fold the warm cooked sushi rice with the cooled vinegar mixture. Use a wooden spatula to avoid mashing the rice, ensuring even coating without overworking it. The rice should become glossy and slightly sticky, ready to be stuffed into your crispy inari pockets. Allow it to cool to room temperature as you prepare the next steps.

Step 3: Prepare the Inari Pockets
Open the packages of Inari age (fried tofu pockets) with care, ensuring they stay intact. Place them upright in a serving dish or on a clean work surface. Make sure the tofu pockets are soft and pliable, which makes stuffing easier. This step is essential for the perfect Inari sushi experience, providing a delectable vessel for your rice.

Step 4: Stuff the Tofu Pockets
Wet your hands with water to keep the rice from sticking, then take a generous scoop of the seasoned sushi rice. Carefully fill each inari pocket, pressing lightly to retain their shape without tearing. Leave a little space at the top for better handling. Repeat until all pockets are filled, creating delicious and aesthetically pleasing Inari sushi.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Arrange your stuffed Inari sushi on a platter, showcasing their beautiful, golden color. If desired, garnish with sesame seeds or chopped vegetables for added flair. These bite-sized delights are best enjoyed fresh, delivering a delightful contrast of crispy tofu pockets and chewy sushi rice, making your meal truly special.

Inari Sushi Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with your Inari sushi! The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility and flavor possibilities.

Vegetable Boost: Mix in finely chopped cucumbers or carrots with the sushi rice for a refreshing crunch and added nutrition.
Protein Power: For a non-vegetarian option, add cooked shrimp or crab meat to the rice mixture for a succulent twist that elevates each bite.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a drizzle of sriracha or a dash of chili oil into the sushi rice for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
Avocado Creaminess: Add diced avocado into the stuffing for a creamier texture, creating a delightful contrast to the tofu pockets.
Sweet and Savory: Try incorporating a splash of soy sauce into the rice for a more umami flavor that beautifully complements the sweet tofu.
Sesame Crunch: Top your finished Inari sushi with toasted sesame seeds or crushed nuts for a delightful texture that will surprise your taste buds.
Herbed Delight: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or basil into your rice mixture; the fresh flavors can lighten the dish while adding a gourmet touch.
Balanced Sweetness: Experiment with mirin instead of sugar for a subtler sweetness that aligns perfectly with the fried tofu pockets.

For an exciting meal, consider pairing your Inari sushi with some homemade kimchi or a side of pickled vegetables for a zesty contrast!

Make Ahead Options

These Inari Sushi are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the sushi rice up to 24 hours in advance by seasoning it as described and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The Inari age can also be filled with rice up to 3 days ahead of time; just be sure to keep them refrigerated to maintain their freshness. To prevent the tofu pockets from getting soggy, avoid overstuffing and keep them lightly covered with a damp cloth. When you’re ready to serve, simply allow the sushi to come to room temperature or reheat in the microwave for a few seconds, and you’ll have a delightful, satisfying dish with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for Inari Sushi

Use Warm Rice: Warm sushi rice adheres better to the seasoning, making it easier to stuff into the tofu pockets without falling apart.
Mind the Stuffing: Avoid overstuffing the pockets. Leaving a little space at the top prevents tearing and keeps your Inari sushi intact for perfect bites.
Experiment: Don’t hesitate to add ingredients like chopped vegetables or sesame seeds to the sushi rice for extra crunch and flavor, making your Inari sushi even more delightful.
Keep It Fresh: Enjoy your Inari sushi fresh for the best texture and flavor. If storing, place in an airtight container and bring to room temperature before serving.
Presentation Matters: Garnish with sesame seeds or finely chopped veggies for an appealing presentation that will impress guests and enhance the dish’s aesthetic.

How to Store and Freeze Inari Sushi

Fridge: Store leftover Inari sushi in an airtight container for up to 2 days. However, for the best taste and texture, enjoy it fresh!

Freezer: While freezing is not recommended for filled Inari sushi, you can freeze unstuffed tofu pockets for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before using.

Reheating: If you prefer warm sushi, reheat the Inari pockets for a few seconds in the microwave; however, it’s best served at room temperature to preserve textures.

Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the sushi rice ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Fill the crispy tofu pockets just before serving for optimum freshness!

What to Serve with Easy Inari Sushi

Savoring Inari sushi opens up a delightful culinary journey, and pairing it right enhances the experience even further!

Pickled Vegetables: These tangy bites cleanse the palate and complement the sweet tofu pockets beautifully, adding a refreshing crunch.
Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup adds depth to your meal with its umami flavors, perfect for cozy evenings at home.
Fresh Edamame: These lightly salted soybeans enhance the dining experience with their vibrant color and satisfying texture, providing a nutritious touch.
Sesame Spinach Salad: A light, refreshing salad with sesame dressing contrasts well with the richness of the Inari and adds a touch of green to the meal.
Sake or Green Tea: Enjoying a glass of sake or a warm cup of green tea creates a harmonious balance, elevating the authentic Japanese dining experience.
Mochi Ice Cream: For dessert, this sweet treat brings a playful twist and has delightful flavors that mirror the sweetness of the Inari pockets.

Let the flavors dance together and transform your Inari sushi into an unforgettable meal!

Inari Sushi Recipe FAQs

What type of sushi rice should I use for Inari sushi?
Absolutely! For the best results, use short-grain sushi rice. This type of rice has the perfect sticky texture that helps it hold together within the fried tofu pockets. Long-grain rice won’t yield the same satisfying chewiness, so stick with short-grain for that authentic taste!

How should I store leftover Inari sushi?
Very simply! Place any leftover Inari sushi in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, I always recommend enjoying it fresh for the best flavor and texture! If you need to save it for later, please allow it to come to room temperature before digging in.

Can I freeze Inari sushi?
Not really for the filled kind; it’s best enjoyed fresh. However, you can freeze the unstuffed tofu pockets (Inari age) for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw them in the refrigerator before using them to make your sushi. This way, you can always have them on hand for a quick, delicious meal!

What should I do if my sushi rice is too sticky?
If you find your sushi rice getting overly sticky, you might have used too much water when cooking it. For next time, I recommend measuring carefully and ensure that you’re letting the rice cool completely before mixing in the vinegar solution. If it’s already made, you can fluff it with a spatula and let it rest for a few minutes to release excess moisture.

Are there any dietary considerations I should know about?
I’m glad you asked! This Inari sushi recipe is vegetarian-friendly, making it a great option for those looking for meatless meals. However, if you’re serving it to someone with allergies, particularly to soy (which is often used in tofu), make sure to read labels carefully on the Inari age and any additional ingredients you plan to add.