Westcoast Pockets: A Cactus Club Copycat Recipe
- Louise Q
- Mar 16
- 2 min read
Westcoast Pockets have been a family favorite in my home for years. Every special occasion, my friends and family ask me to make these delicious bites. If you're from Vancouver, BC, and have been to Cactus Club Cafe, you may remember this menu favorite. Since its discontinuation, I’ve perfected a copycat version that captures the original flavors and textures. These pockets combine the richness of inari tofu pouches with fresh cold-smoked salmon, creamy avocado mayonnaise, and crisp pea shoots, making them an elegant and flavorful appetizer or light meal.
Ingredients
Base:
8 inari pockets (fried tofu pouches, store-bought or homemade)
2 cups sushi rice or quinoa (cooked and seasoned with 2 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tbsp sugar, ½ tsp salt)
Avocado Mayonnaise:
1 ripe avocado
2 tbsp Japanese mayonnaise (Kewpie recommended)
½ tsp wasabi (optional for a slight kick)
Fillings & Garnish:
8 slices cold-smoked salmon
Pea shoots
Pickled ginger (for serving)
Wasabi (for serving)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Sushi Rice:
Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
Cook according to package instructions.
While warm, mix in rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Let it cool to room temperature.
2. Make the Avocado Mayonnaise:
In a small bowl, mash the avocado until smooth.
Mix in Japanese mayonnaise and wasabi (if using).
Set aside.
3. Fill the Inari Pockets:
Gently open each inari pocket.
Spoon in about 2-3 tablespoons of sushi rice per pocket, pressing lightly to fill.
4. Assemble the Toppings:
Spread a thin layer of avocado mayo over the rice.
Place a slice of cold-smoked salmon on top.
Garnish with pea shoots and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
5. Serve & Enjoy:
Serve with pickled ginger and wasabi on the side.
Enjoy immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Pro Tips:
Extra Crunch: Add crispy tempura flakes before serving.
Protein Variations: Try raw tuna or salmon, spicy tuna, canned tuna, crab, shrimp, or even chicken.
Vegan Option: Swap the salmon for marinated smoked tofu or roasted mushrooms.
Meal Prep: Store assembled pockets in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 6 hours for best freshness.
Quick Version: You can also hit up your local grocery store that makes sushi. Thrifty's or T&T are usually my go-to places to pick these up. Then you can skip steps 1 and 3.
Westcoast Pockets are the perfect balance of fresh, creamy, and savory flavors. Whether you’re recreating a favorite dish or discovering this for the first time, these pockets are sure to impress!
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