Perfect Sushi Rice: Essential for Authentic Sushi Rolls

Creating perfect sushi rice is the foundation of delicious homemade sushi. This simple recipe combines tender, seasoned rice with a delicate blend of vinegar, sugar, and salt, adding a slight tang and sweetness to complement your sushi fillings. By carefully cooking and seasoning the rice, you’ll achieve a soft, sticky texture ideal for rolling, shaping, or pressing into your favorite sushi creations.

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Ingredients

• 1½ cups sushi rice (short-grain rice for the best texture)
• 1½ cups + 1 tbsp water (if using a rice cooker)
  OR 1⅜ cups (330 ml) water (for stovetop cooking)

Sushi Vinegar:

• ¼ cup rice vinegar
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt

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Instructions

1. Rinse the Rice:

• Place the sushi rice in a large bowl, cover with cold water, and gently wash by swirling it with your hand. Repeat this process until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch, helping the rice cook evenly.

2. Drain the Rice:

• Carefully discard the water, using a sieve if needed.

Cook Sushi Rice Using a Rice Cooker

3. Cook:

• Add the rinsed rice and 1½ cups + 1 tbsp water to the rice cooker. Allow it to soak for 30 minutes. If your rice cooker has a “sushi rice” setting, use it.
• Once cooking is complete, leave the rice undisturbed in the cooker with the lid closed for 10-15 minutes to finish steaming.

Cook Sushi Rice on the Stovetop

4. Cook:

• Place the rinsed rice and 1⅜ cups water in a pot and let it soak for 30 minutes.
• With the lid on, bring the pot to a boil, then reduce to low heat, and cook for 8 minutes. Do not open the lid while cooking.
• Remove from heat and let the rice rest with the lid on for an additional 10-15 minutes.

5. Prepare Sushi Vinegar:

• In a small saucepan, combine rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Heat until the mixture just begins to boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat.

6. Season the Rice:

• Transfer the cooked rice to a large bowl. Pour the hot vinegar mixture over the rice, and gently fold it in using a cutting motion with a spatula to avoid mashing the grains.

7. Cool the Rice:

• Cover the bowl with a damp tea towel to prevent the rice from drying out. Let it cool to room temperature before using.

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Tips for Perfect Sushi Rice

• Rinse Thoroughly: Washing the rice well ensures a light, airy texture and avoids sticky clumps.
• Avoid Overmixing: Use a gentle folding motion to incorporate the vinegar without crushing the rice.
• Serve Fresh: Sushi rice is best used at room temperature for easy handling and the best flavor in sushi rolls or bowls.

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With this sushi rice recipe, you’ll have fluffy, flavorful rice as the foundation for all types of sushi, from rolls to nigiri. Enjoy the delicious balance and texture that perfect sushi rice brings to your homemade sushi dishes!