Vegan substitute for Tuna
Chickpeas, jackfruit and marinated tofu give the flake; nori and kelp give the sea flavour. Together they make a convincing sandwich filling.
Options, ratios and best uses
Mashed chickpeas + nori
1 tin per 2 servingsMash roughly and add crumbled nori and vegan mayo.
Best for: sandwiches, jacket potatoes
Jackfruit
1:1Rinse brined jackfruit well before use.
Best for: "tuna" melts
Marinated tofu
1:1Marinate in soy, rice vinegar and kelp powder.
Best for: poke bowls, sushi
Watermelon (raw "tuna")
1:1Dehydrate lightly and marinate in soy.
Best for: sashimi-style plates
Tips
- Kelp or dulse powder gives the ocean note
- Add capers and lemon for brightness
- Chill an hour so flavours settle
Avoid
- Skipping the seaweed — it is the whole flavour
- Over-blending into paste
Questions people ask
Do vegans get enough omega-3 without fish?
Yes, with algal EPA/DHA — the original source fish get it from.
Best for a tuna melt?
Chickpea and nori mash with vegan mayo and a melting plant cheese.