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How to Make Sushi Rice Recipe

5 from 134 reviews

This recipe guides you through making perfect sushi rice, a fundamental component for sushi rolls and bowls. The rice is rinsed to remove excess starch, boiled until tender, and then seasoned with a delicate mixture of rice vinegar, sugar, and salt to achieve that classic sushi rice flavor and texture. Ideal for home cooks seeking to prepare authentic sushi at home.

Ingredients

Scale

Sushi Rice

  • 2 cups sushi rice
  • 2 ½ cups water

Seasoning Mixture

  • ¼ cup rice vinegar
  • 12 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt (to taste)

Instructions

  1. Rinse rice: Place the sushi rice in a fine mesh strainer and rinse it under cold running water for 2 to 3 minutes until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch, preventing the rice from becoming too sticky.
  2. Boil rice: In a pot, combine the rinsed rice and 2 ½ cups of water. Bring it to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer gently for 20 minutes until the rice is cooked through and water is absorbed.
  3. Make vinegar mixture: While the rice cooks, combine rice vinegar, sugar, and salt in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk continuously until the sugar and salt dissolve completely, about 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
  4. Season rice: Once the rice is done cooking, transfer it to a large bowl. Pour the vinegar seasoning evenly over the rice. Using a rice paddle or silicone spatula, gently fold the rice to coat each grain without mashing it, ensuring an even distribution of flavor.
  5. Cover to cool: Place a damp paper towel over the bowl to prevent the rice from drying out. Allow the rice to cool at room temperature until it reaches a suitable temperature for making sushi or serving.
  6. Use in sushi: Use the prepared sushi rice immediately to make sushi rolls or serve it in a vegetarian sushi bowl for a delicious meal.

Notes

  • Rinsing the rice thoroughly is critical for the best texture.
  • Adjust the sugar and salt in the vinegar mixture to suit your taste preference.
  • Do not refrigerate the rice as it will harden; use immediately or keep covered at room temperature.
  • Avoid stirring the rice vigorously to keep the grains intact and fluffy.
  • If sushi rice is not available, short-grain rice can be used as an alternative but may slightly alter texture.

Keywords: sushi rice, how to make sushi rice, Japanese rice recipe, rice vinegar seasoning, sushi preparation