What's the Best Substitute for Furikake?
Whether you're out of Furikake or looking for a healthier alternative, finding the right substitute can save your recipe. Japanese rice seasoning blend typically made with seaweed, sesame seeds, salt, sugar, and other ingredients for sprinkling over rice and other dishes In this guide, we'll explore the best substitutes that work in most recipes and help you achieve similar results.
Quick Answer
The best substitutes for furikake are everything bagel seasoning, nori flakes with sesame seeds, gomasio, or homemade furikake using seaweed, sesame seeds, and seasonings.
Best Substitutes for Furikake
Everything Bagel Seasoning
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- rice dishes
- avocado toast
- salads
- sushi
- noodles
- popcorn
Description
American seasoning blend with sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic, onion, and salt. Similar texture and flavor profile to furikake.
Most similar to furikake in texture and versatility. Contains similar seeds and seasonings.
Nori Flakes + Sesame Seeds
Ratio
1 tbsp furikake = 1/2 tbsp nori flakes + 1/2 tbsp sesame seeds + pinch of salt
Best For
- rice dishes
- sushi
- soups
- noodles
- salads
- onigiri
Description
Homemade blend using dried seaweed flakes and toasted sesame seeds. Closest to traditional furikake.
Most authentic substitute. Can be customized with additional seasonings like sugar, salt, or bonito flakes.
Gomasio (Sesame Salt)
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- rice dishes
- sushi
- soups
- vegetables
- salads
Description
Japanese seasoning made from toasted sesame seeds and salt. Simple but effective furikake alternative.
Traditional Japanese seasoning. Can be made at home or purchased. Less complex than furikake but very versatile.
Homemade Furikake
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- rice dishes
- sushi
- onigiri
- noodles
- soups
- vegetables
Description
Custom blend using seaweed, sesame seeds, salt, sugar, and optional ingredients like bonito flakes or dried fish.
Most customizable option. Can be made vegan or include fish-based ingredients. Store in airtight container.
Seaweed Salad Seasoning
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- rice dishes
- salads
- noodles
- sushi
Description
Pre-made seasoning blend designed for seaweed salads. Often contains sesame seeds and seasonings.
Convenient option but may have different flavor profile. Check ingredients to ensure it matches your needs.
Sesame Seeds + Salt
Ratio
1 tbsp furikake = 1 tbsp sesame seeds + 1/4 tsp salt
Best For
- rice dishes
- sushi
- vegetables
- salads
Description
Simple two-ingredient substitute. Basic but effective for adding texture and flavor to rice.
Minimalist option. Toasted sesame seeds work best. Can be enhanced with other seasonings.
How to Choose the Right Substitute
When choosing a substitute for Furikake, consider the recipe's requirements for taste, texture, and cooking method. Think about whether you need something that mimics the original exactly or if a different but complementary flavor would work. Also consider dietary restrictions and availability of ingredients.
Cooking Tips
Choose your furikake substitute based on the dish you're making
Everything bagel seasoning is the most versatile and widely available substitute
For authentic Japanese flavor, use nori flakes with sesame seeds
Gomasio is perfect for simple rice dishes and traditional Japanese cooking
Homemade furikake allows you to customize flavors and ingredients
Store homemade furikake in an airtight container in the refrigerator
Toast sesame seeds before using for better flavor and crunch
Add furikake substitute just before serving to maintain texture
For sushi, use nori-based substitutes for the most authentic taste
Experiment with different ratios to find your preferred flavor balance
Always taste and adjust seasonings when using substitutes
Consider the cooking method - some substitutes work better in certain applications