Vegan Substitute

Vegan Substitute for Tuna

Vegan tuna substitutes for sandwiches, sushi, and casseroles. Chickpea tuna salad, hearts of palm, and tomato-based sashimi options.

Why replace tuna?

Tuna populations have declined by 60% in the last 50 years due to overfishing. Tuna fishing also kills dolphins, sharks, and sea turtles as bycatch.

Best vegan alternatives

Chickpea tuna salad

Sandwiches, wraps, salads, stuffed avocados

1 can (400g) chickpeas = 2-3 servings tuna salad

Mash chickpeas with a fork, mix with vegan mayo, diced celery, lemon juice, nori flakes, and capers. Closest everyday replacement.

Tomato tuna (marinated tomatoes)

Sushi, poke bowls, sashimi

4 Roma tomatoes = 2 servings sashimi-grade tuna

Blanch, peel, and deseed tomatoes. Marinate in soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice vinegar for 1+ hour. Remarkably realistic.

Hearts of palm tuna

Tuna salad, tuna melts, casseroles

1 can (400g) = 2-3 servings

Shred with fork, season with nori, lemon, and Old Bay. Texture is closest to canned tuna.

Frequently asked questions

How do I make vegan tuna salad?

Mash 1 can of drained chickpeas with a fork (leave some chunks). Mix with 3 tbsp vegan mayo, 1 stalk diced celery, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tsp nori flakes, salt, and pepper. Optional: capers and dill. Serve on bread or crackers.

What is the best vegan tuna for sushi?

Marinated tomatoes are the most visually convincing tuna for sushi. Blanch, peel, and deseed Roma tomatoes, then marinate for at least 1 hour in soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice vinegar. The color and texture are remarkably tuna-like.

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